The number one sign that your air conditioner has stopped working is arriving home to a hot house. But there are also more subtle ways to tell that your system is in distress, and it helps to be familiar with these warning signs so that you can schedule a tune-up. Often, addressing these concerns as early as possible can prevent more costly repairs down the road. Here are 5 signs your air conditioner might need a tuneup.
Weak Air Flow
If you hold your hand up to the air vent in the floor or ceiling and you don’t feel much air coming out, you may have clogged air filters or ducts. This forces the system to work much harder to produce air, increasing your energy bills and wearing out the system prematurely. You should replace your filters every few months, and if a filter replacement doesn’t improve your airflow, we recommend calling a certified HVAC technician to take a look.
Warm Air Flow
Similarly, if you hold your hand up to the vent and the air isn’t cold, or it’s not as cold as it once was, this could signal a problem with your refrigerant, your condenser, or your compressor. Whether it’s a leak or a faulty component, it’s important to have a professional take a look in order to prevent further damage to your system.
A Bump in the Night
If your air conditioner is operating properly, you should barely notice it. You’ll hear a smooth and steady humming sound when it’s running. But if you hear strange noises like grinding, banging, or rattling, it’s a good idea to find out whether it’s just a loose screw, or something more serious.
Unpleasant Odors
A bad smell could be a sign of mold or mildew growth inside the HVAC system or ductwork. This not only affects the performance and efficiency of your air conditioning, but it can wreak havoc on your respiratory system as well, especially if anyone in your household suffers from allergies. Unless you’re intimately familiar with your A/C’s coils and ductwork, seek a professional to help detect and repair the issue.
High Energy Bills
If you notice a spike in your energy bill that’s not accompanied by a spike in the outside temperature, it could indicate that something in your system has gone wrong. It could be anything from a clog or a leak to a malfunctioning thermostat, but it’s important to have it examined before it can cause more trouble.
If you’ve read this far, you’ve got an idea of some of the things that can go wrong with an HVAC system, and the importance of regular maintenance and tune-ups to extend the life of your system. Don’t hesitate to schedule a visit from HomePro today and stay cool all summer long.