Unfortunately, every air conditioning unit has an expiration date. The good news is that there are ways to identify the signs of an AC unit on the fritz before you find yourself without air conditioning in the heat of summer. Here are a few key clues to look out for straight from The Air Conditioning Specialists themselves.
Odd Noises
Banging noises, or metal clanging repeatedly against itself is the most obnoxious, clear way to tell that your air conditioning unit is on its way out. The reason for such loud noises can be loose belts or pipes, but loud noise can also be a huge red flag that your unit’s motor is failing. If you hear banging, call a professional immediately to assess the situation and advise you on any air conditioning repairs or replacements needed.
Fluctuating Temperatures
If the temperature in your home is inconsistent, and your air conditioning unit is struggling to keep up with the cooling demands of the season, you could need professional attention and air conditioning repair. An AC unit functioning at its best should evenly and consistently cool your entire home. If you find that some rooms are warmer and more humid than others at different times, and your energy bill is higher than you’d like, it might be time to address some thermostat repairs.
Strange Smells
Foul scents are a serious concern, as they can indicate mold and mildew buildup. This is dangerous not only for the health of your AC unit but for your personal health and that of those who live in your home. Repairs due to mold and mildew can sometimes be a simple clean-up of your unit’s drains by professionals, but can also lead to much worse. Another strange scent to be on the lookout for is that of burning rubber or metal. This could be a warning sign of electrical malfunction and pose a significant risk of a fire sparking inside your home. Call a professional immediately upon discovery of any unpleasant or abnormal scents being emitted from your vents.
Excess Humidity
Should your home be filled with damp air at any point, this is a certain sign of malfunction somewhere within your air conditioning unit. The first step of any repairs to be made is to check the fluid in your air conditioning unit. Sometimes, the issue of excess humidity is an easily repaired issue stemming from a lack of proper fluids. In other cases it means total replacement.
Age
The typical lifespan for an air conditioning unit is ten to fifteen years. If you push your unit past this point, it is common to need regular repairs as parts will inevitably wear out. Air conditioning units that push the limits are typically the best maintained, meaning that they regularly receive preemptive service to get ahead of repairs.
Electrical Issues
Electrical issues are a major threat to the function of your air conditioning unit as well as a hazard to your entire home. Your air conditioning unit can show signs of electrical damage in the form of frayed wires, loose connections, or signs of general wear in your wiring. This is an urgent repair need–if you do not call a professional immediately upon noticing electrical damage in your AC unit, you may have a serious house fire risk on your hands.
Leaks
Moisture collection around your AC unit is never a good sign. If you notice moisture leaking from your AC unit, contact HVAC professionals immediately. Leak repairs are relatively simple in most cases, but don’t waste time calling our professionals to take a look!
