Even if you have the most high-end air conditioning system, it will still require repairs at some point. Like all other appliances, your AC can also suffer from wear and tear over time even if you’re not using it every day. In some cases, AC problems usually make themselves loud and clear, allowing you to identify them early on. However, there are also times when it can be difficult to tell if it needs repair or not.
It’s crucial that you always keep an eye on your air conditioning system, especially if it’s been running for a couple of years. Below are three important warning signs that you need to look out for. All of these are clear indications that your unit is due for repair by a professional.
1. Inadequate Cooling
The main reason why homeowners buy and use air conditioning units is to cool their homes, especially during summer. If your AC fails to do that, then there’s a problem with it. Other times, it could blow warm air which is not ideal during the summer months.
A well-functioning AC unit should not only make your home cool, but should also improve its air quality. This is bad news when the weather gets particularly humid as it causes your air conditioner to work much harder and consume more electricity.
There are a couple of simple fixes for this particular issue. If the appliance is not turning on, check the thermostat first to see if it is switched on with the right settings. If that doesn’t work, then you may need a professional to have a look at its wiring and motor for any potential issues. If the unit is blowing warm air, there could be some problems with its condenser, refrigerant, or ducts. Call a trained professional from a trusted air conditioning repair Berryville company to inspect all these parts and identify the cause of the issue.
2. Loud Or Strange Noises Coming Out Of The AC Unit
Several noises can signal the need for AC repair. High-pitched squealing sounds, for example, may signal that your fan belt needs to be replaced. Other squeaking noises may indicate a faulty fan bearing.
Another common noise is rattling or banging from your air conditioner. It may be caused by a loose part or by debris hitting the fan. If you hear this noise, call a professional to inspect your unit.
A buzzing or rattling sound in your AC may signal a problem with the compressor. The compressor pressurizes and cools the refrigerant inside your AC. If the noise is accompanied by a buzzing noise, the problem may be an electrical fault. A damaged condenser fan motor, a faulty contactor relay switch, or a loose wire can be the source of this noise. If these problems are not addressed quickly, the noise could lead to the breakdown of your AC.
3. Leaks
The first sign that your air conditioner is having trouble is the buildup of moisture inside the unit. If this happens, you should contact a technician to get the system checked out. If you can’t locate a leak, your technician will need to diagnose the problem with the unit and repair it accordingly.
While water leaking from the indoor air conditioning unit is not usually a huge problem, it is one that requires quick action to avoid serious damage. If your system has been leaking for some time, it’s a good idea to have it checked and fixed by a professional.
Another sign you should look for is a small amount of refrigerant leaking from the evaporator coil. When refrigerant is low, it has to work harder to cool your home, so you’ll need to adjust your thermostat to achieve the desired temperature. Additionally, a leak will force your air conditioner to work harder and longer to cool your home.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been using your air conditioner for at least 10 years, you should be thankful already that it has lasted this long. Not all ACs can last for a decade. AC units that are over 10 years old are due for replacement. Be wary of the above warning signs to identify problems early on, and in many cases, help avoid getting a unit replacement sooner.
Keeping your home comfortable and cool during the summer months requires your HVAC system to run at its optimal condition. Should you experience any of these three telltale signs, don’t hesitate to call a professional AC technician. Handling the repairs on your own is possible but it may lead to unnecessary costs and extra repairs in case things go wrong.
