Ideally, air conditioning systems should undergo maintenance at least once a year. However, if your unit suddenly shows indications that there is something wrong with it, you have to get an air conditioning professional to check it out right away. Here are some of the top signs your AC needs immediate service.
Weird smells
If you notice an unusual smell coming from your air conditioner, there must be something wrong. If it’s a burning smell, then there could be an electrical problem or an overheating component inside the unit. Call an experienced AC company immediately and have their technicians take care of it.
Cooling capability is down
When your AC has been running for an hour, but the room still feels warm, it’s possible that your air conditioner is no longer generating cold air. If dirty air filters are causing the problem, just cleaning them should help your unit do its job again. But if your air conditioner still fails to cool the room, then it could be thermostat issues, fan or fan motor problems, or a defective electronic control board or PCB assembly. In this case, only a professional AC technician can help you out.
Unusual sounds
Of all your appliances, your AC unit probably makes the most noise, and it’s perfectly normal. What isn’t natural are loud clanking and screeching sounds, which are likely caused by a loose fan belt or a poorly-lubricated central air fan motor. But if you hear bubbling sounds, it could be a refrigerant leak. Waste no time in calling your AC company the moment you hear these weird sounds.
Poor air flow
There are several possible reasons why your AC unit has weak air flow. It could be the dirty air filters, which you only need to clean to restore proper air flow. If clean filters don’t fix the problem, it’s possible that you have leaking or improperly installed ducts. There’s also the possibility that a failing compressor is causing the poor air flow.
Water pooling near your AC unit
Wet spots, drips or water leaks around your air conditioner mean there is excess moisture in the unit. There could be something wrong with your AC’s drain tube, or there could be a refrigerant leak. Your AC system could end up sustaining severe damage with all that moisture if you don’t have it checked out by AC professionals without delay.
Huge electric bills
You can expect your electric bill to be higher when you regularly use the AC. But if your latest bill has become astronomical, you may have to take a closer look at your air conditioner. It’s possible that it’s just dirty air filters, which restrict air flow and cause the unit to work harder, which in turn leads to higher energy consumption. But there are a host other possibilities, including faulty installation, dirty coils, duct holes or leaks, low refrigerant charge, or a refrigerant overcharge.
The moment you notice any of the signs listed above, call qualified air conditioning technicians immediately. Never ignore them, because your AC could suffer serious damage, and may even put your life and that of your family at risk.
About Author: Thomas A Barnhart is a freelance writer who enjoys writing about anything under the sun. When he’s not busy creating online content, he runs 5 miles a day, hoping to one day qualify for a marathon. He lives in the suburbs with his wife Kaitlyn and three adorable kids.
