4 Signs That Suggest Your AC Might Need a Maintenance Check
Be vigilant of warning signs that indicate your AC may not be performing at its optimal performance. Below are a few indicators that suggest it might require maintenance services.
If you spot any of these signs, it’s time to consider maintenance services. Check out this page for more details on AC fan issues.
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1. Cool air but no cold air
Nothing beats cool air flowing from your air conditioning vents on a hot day. So, if something goes amiss with your system and no air is coming through the vents, that should indicate that something needs fixing immediately.
Possible culprits could include anything from having the thermostat set to “fan” instead of “cool” to an AC unit having an obstruction, such as a blocked filter or condensate drain that causes it to draw more power than usual and even trip the breaker.
If this is the case, a professional will need to inspect the AC to ascertain what’s causing it and establish whether a simple fix or more extensive repairs are required.
Lack of cold air could also indicate low refrigerant levels, which must be addressed quickly to avoid damage and other problems in the future.
2. Foul odors
If you detect an unusual or unpleasant scent emanating from your vents, it could be an indicator of an air leakage issue within your ductwork – one which needs to be remedied quickly as this can lead to mold and other health concerns as well as reduced air conditioning efficiency and higher energy bills.
A pungent or burning smell could indicate burned-out wire insulation, while musty odors may suggest the presence of mold inside your AC unit.
These odors not only compromise indoor air quality but can also harm your health. Having your AC inspected and cleaned is crucial to eliminate potential hazards and ensure fresh and clean air circulation.
3. Unexpected increase in energy expenses
An unexpected increase in energy costs may indicate that your AC needs maintenance. A malfunctioning unit requires more electricity to reach comfort, so a tune-up may prevent wear-and-tear wear-out or overconsumption, saving you money over time.
For best results, schedule regular HVAC maintenance check-ups with an experienced technician. This way, you will catch any potential issues before they become major headaches.
4. Unusual noises
If your AC unit is making loud thumping or rattling sounds, this should not be taken as normal. A part could have broken off or come loose and could potentially cause further damage if left alone.
Over time, your air conditioning becomes part of the background noisescape. Still, unfamiliar noises such as squealing, clanking, or grinding could signal trouble, from loose fan blades to an overcharged system.
Also, humming, buzzing, or clicking sounds can indicate fan motor, compressor, or thermostat issues. These noises should not be ignored, as they could lead to more severe problems or pose safety hazards.
An air filter needing cleaning can prevent heat from leaving the evaporator coil and thus freezing, which leads to warm air coming through your vents and potentially freezing over. You might hear buzzing or humming noises as its airflow is partially restricted. Call an HVAC professional to diagnose and resolve the problem.
