Don’t Ignore These 6 AC Warning Signs
Modern residential air conditioners are designed to last for quite a few years, but these systems aren’t impervious to damage. Taking care of minor problems as quickly as possible could help you avoid expensive catastrophes down the road. An experienced air conditioner repair specialist will keep your system running smoothly and efficiently throughout the warmest months of the year. Here are six warning signs that your home’s air conditioner might be ready for a maintenance call or repairs.
1. Short Cycles
This issue generally takes place when the air conditioner’s thermostat repeatedly turns the system on and off. Not only is short cycling bad for air conditioners, but it can also increase your energy bills. In most homes, the HVAC system should stay on for at least five minutes at a time. If you have recently noticed that the system turns off too quickly, then you should contact an air conditioner repair company to have the thermostat tested.
2. Unusual Energy Bills
As the weather begins to warm up and you start using your air conditioner more, your monthly electricity bills will most likely increase as well. Minor fluctuations are completely normal, but you should be wary of sudden changes to your home’s energy consumption. Filing away all of your energy bills for the past 12 months will allow you to accurately track how much energy is being used to keep your home cool.
3. Hot or Cold Spots in Your Home
A well-maintained air conditioning system should keep every room in your home at a relatively consistent temperature. Those who notice hot or cold spots throughout their home should contact a contractor to have the system inspected. Even if your air conditioner is working perfectly, you might need to update your insulation. For additional info, visit Climate Experts and learn more from their online references.
4. Loud Noises When the System Is On
Air conditioning systems are never completely silent, but they shouldn’t make loud or startling noises. Issues such as screeching or clanging are often the result of moving parts that need to be lubricated. During your annual inspections, your AC contractor can help you prevent those noises by preemptively oiling all of the moving parts and making sure that the fans are balanced.
5. Unpleasant Smells
When an air conditioner is turned on for the first time of the year, you may notice unusual smells from dust in the vents or dirt on the coils. If those smells aren’t gone within a few minutes, then you need to turn the system completely off and call a repair specialist. Burning smells can be caused by serious damage to the condenser that must be repaired immediately.
6. Ice or Puddles Near the Condenser
Every few months, you should inspect the outdoor condenser for any signs of damage. Small cracks and leaks can create ice on the coils or puddles just under the outdoor unit. Patching those holes as quickly as possible might prevent damage to more expensive pieces of the condenser including the evaporator coils, fan, or heat pump.