Like many other appliances, your air conditioning system needs regular maintenance to help it function efficiently. If you notice unusual sounds, smells, or functions coming from your system, it may be time to contact an AC professional for air conditioner repair. Here are five signs your air conditioner needs to be serviced:
1. Weak Airflow
If you notice a reduction in airflow from your vents, your AC may have an airflow problem. Clogged filters and blocked air ducts are common causes of weak AC airflow. Compressor failures and fan malfunctions may also be why your system has reduced airflow. These AC issues are repairable but might be challenging to diagnose without relevant AC repair experience. Call an AC professional with the knowledge needed to diagnose issues and complete air conditioner repair as soon as you notice a change in airflow. This can help prevent more serious AC system problems in the future.
2. Odd Noises
Most AC systems produce some level of noise while running. If you have had your AC for some time, you’ll know which sounds it typically makes while operating. This can help you identify odd sounds coming from your system. Some of the AC system’s internal components may be displaced if you hear grinding, banging, or squealing noises when it is on. Banging and clanking often indicate something loose or broken within the AC system. Your AC may also produce a clanking sound if the blades of the outdoor fan or indoor blower are out of balance. This causes the blades to hit other AC components as they rotate. Squealing sounds can indicate a blower or fan belt malfunction, while high-pitched whistling often results from a refrigerant leak.
3. Excess Moisture
Excess moisture in your AC system may result from an overflowing clogged drain pan. You may observe pools of water around your unit when the drain pan has a clog. Excess moisture creates optimal conditions for mold growth, which can be dangerous to the people living in your home. Moisture around your unit can also be a sign of a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant leaks compromise your AC system’s cooling efficiency. Freon, the standard refrigerant used in most ACs, is poisonous, so it is best to immediately call a technician for air conditioner repair when your AC has a refrigerant leak.
4. Frequent Cycling
Your AC may have a thermostat malfunction if it cycles on and off frequently. This issue is known as short cycling. Short cycling occurs when your thermostat loses calibration and has incorrect temperature readings. When this happens, your AC runs for shorter periods and then turns back on after a few minutes. Short cycling makes your cooling system inefficient and may cause premature wear and tear on AC components. An oversized AC unit, clogged filters, and low refrigerant levels may cause frequent cycling. A heating and cooling professional can diagnose your short cycling problem and restore your AC’s regular cycling pattern.
5. Foul Odors
Unpleasant smells emanating from your AC may indicate mold, bacteria, or burned wiring. If you notice a musty smell when you turn your AC on, mold may be growing inside the unit or in the ductwork. Mold growth is the result of moisture problems in the AC. Mold is a potentially harmful allergen, so it is best to get your AC cleaned if it has a musty smell. Burned-out wiring has a strong smell, like melting plastic or burning rubber. This smell indicates an electrical problem in your unit. If your AC unit has an electrical issue, it may trip your circuit breaker or start short cycling. Address electrical problems immediately to avoid further damage to your AC system.
Read Also: Common Causes of Furnace Failure
Schedule Regular Air Conditioner Repair and Maintenance
Regular maintenance and timely repairs are necessary to keep your air conditioning unit functioning optimally. By paying attention to signs like unusual smells, sounds, and operations, you can identify issues early and call a professional for air conditioner repair. Contact your local heating and cooling company to schedule regular maintenance, timely component replacement, system cleaning, and unit tune-ups.
