8 Signs That Your Air Conditioner Needs Repairs

Does your air conditioner seem to wait for the hottest day in summer before it breaks down? Understanding the signs will help you prevent issues down the road. Here are eight signs that your air conditioner needs repairs.  

For the sake of your and your family’s health and comfort, it’s best to learn how to notice minor issues early, before expensive AC Repair is needed – or a complete replacement becomes necessary. 

1. Blowing Warm Air

If your air conditioner is blowing warm air, first check the thermostat and ensure it is set on cooling mode. If it’s still not working correctly, you need to contact an HVAC professional and ask for assistance. For example, the airflow might be restricted, or there could be a compressor issue. 

2. Weak Airflow

If the airflow is weak, there might be a blockage preventing air from moving through the ductwork. The system could also have a broken motor or a clogged air filter. It is recommended that your ducts be cleaned every five years to prevent debris from building up. 

3. The Thermostat Isn’t Working

The thermostat lets the air conditioner know how much cold air it must generate. It also takes measurements to ensure the air conditioner is doing its job. If your air conditioner only runs for short periods, or it won’t turn on at all, the thermostat might not be correctly determining if the system is running or not. A trained technician will have to look at this problem. 

4. Loud Noises and Strange Odors

If you hear grinding or squealing noises, there could be a problem with a belt moving out of place inside the unit. A technician should investigate to prevent damage to other parts of the system. 

If your air conditioner is emitting a strange smell, it could indicate that some wiring has burned out inside the unit, or there might be mold inside the ductwork. A professional should investigate this, as it could cause you and your family to become ill. 

5. Humidity is High

Humidity levels should be managed automatically by your air conditioner. Repairs are probably needed if your system can’t keep moisture levels at a comfortable level in your house. 

6. Constant Repairs and High Electricity Bills

If your energy bill has spiked recently, or your air conditioner constantly has to be repaired, it might be time to invest in a new unit, especially if it’s older than ten years. A tune-up and repairs might still be able to revive a unique unit, so have an expert take a look and offer a recommendation. 

7. Frequent Cycles

Your system should go through routine cooling cycles and turn on more often on the hottest summer days. However, it should not be turned on and off constantly. If you notice this problem, you also need to contact a professional technician to investigate. 

8. Water Leaks

If there is pooled water around your air conditioner, it is a sign that the unit isn’t functioning properly. Immediately call a technician, as leaks can damage your home and lead to structural problems. Moisture could also point to a refrigerant leak, which could be serious. 

Final Thoughts

If you pay attention to the signs that something is wrong with your air conditioner, you could also save money by having repairs done before they become a major issue or the entire unit has to be replaced. For the sake of your long-term comfort and safety, it’s important to perform regular system maintenance.