Your air conditioner is the key to staying comfortable and cool during the brutal summer months. In fact, hot and humid summers can be miserable and downright unbearable without a properly functioning AC. Yet, air conditioners only last for so long, and AC maintenance often gets overlooked. To avoid sleeping with ice packs at night, it’s important to learn some common warning signs of when your air conditioner may be breaking down and costing you both comfort and money.
Decreased Air Flow
When running and working properly, your air conditioner should produce consistent airflow. If you begin noticing fluctuations in the airflow and less of it, it’s probably time for a professional to give it a look. In some cases, it’s nothing more than a dirty filter; but in others, something more serious or simply age may be to blame.
High Utility Bill
Have you noticed your electric bill creeping up? What about a sudden spike? Either could be due to a number of factors, such as using your home’s large appliances more often. However, in many cases, a poorly performing air conditioner is to blame. If your AC is wearing down and running inefficiently, it will use even more power to cool your home, making your utility bill skyrocket.
Strange Odors
A well-running air conditioner shouldn’t produce any noticeable smells. When foul odors begin occurring, it may be a sign something is wrong with the unit. Musty smells usually indicate mold growth in the unit, while an electrical smell may point to a component overheating. Either one is a serious matter and should be immediately checked out by an experienced air conditioning repair service, someone like Metro Express Service.
Unusual Noises
If your air conditioner is starting to sound more and more like a rocket preparing for launch, it may seem obvious, but your unit is probably on the fritz. While some sounds can indicate a major malfunction, others, like a squealing sound, may indicate a slipping belt or another easy fix. Sometimes, you can tell just by listening closely to the unit while it’s running, but calling a professional is always the best bet.
If your air conditioner is beginning to act up and show any of the signs above, it may be time for an AC repair professional to have a look. Sometimes, the most serious issues start as the smallest of problems. An AC pro can examine your system to pinpoint any problems and make the necessary repairs. If left unchecked, small problems can get even worse and a new unit may eventually be needed.
