In the summertime, people rely heavily on their air conditioners to keep them cool and comfortable.
But what happens when your AC unit starts to give you warning signs that it’s about to go out?
When it comes to household appliances, the air conditioner is one of the most common. And just like any other appliance, it can give a lot of tell-tale signs that it’s on its way out.
Signs your air conditioner is going out
Let’s discuss the five most common signs that your air conditioner is about to break down.
1. Rising energy bills
One of the first signs that your air conditioner is going out is an increase in energy bills.
Rising energy bills can be caused by several factors, including a leaky duct system or an inefficient air filter. This could be due to your AC unit working harder than usual to cool your home.
If your energy bill has been steadily rising, even though you haven’t changed your everyday habits, it could be a sign that your air conditioner is going out. ACs consume a lot of energy, and if it’s on its last legs, it might be using more power than usual to keep you cool.
If you notice that your AC is running more often than usual or that your energy bills have spiked, it’s a good idea to have your unit checked out.
2. Reduced airflow
Another sign that your air conditioner is on its way out is reduced airflow.
If you notice that your home isn’t cooling down as quickly as it used to or that the air from your vents is weaker than usual, it’s a good idea to have your AC checked.
If your AC unit is no longer cooling your home effectively, this could be due to several issues, including low refrigerant levels, dirty coils, or a blockage in the ductwork.
Reduced airflow can be caused by several factors, including a dirty air filter or a frozen evaporator coil.
If you notice reduced airflow, check your air filter and evaporator coil first. If they don’t seem to be the problem, you may have a more severe issue with your AC unit and should contact a professional for help.
3. Strange noises
If your air conditioner starts making strange noises, it’s time to call a professional. This could signify that the unit is overworked and about to break down.
Common AC problems that cause strange noises include loose parts, a build-up of ice on the evaporator coil, or a problem with the compressor.
If you hear banging, rattling, or whining noises from your AC, it could signify something wrong. These sounds could indicate that the compressor is starting to wear down or that there is a problem with the fan.
If you hear any strange noises coming from your AC unit, it’s essential to have it checked out as soon as possible.
4. Leaks and smells
Another sign that your air conditioner is going out is leaks or strange smells.
If you notice water dripping from your AC unit or pooling around the base, it’s a good idea to call a professional for AC repair services.
Leaking units can cause significant damage to your home, so it’s vital to have them fixed as soon as possible.
If your air conditioner emits musty or burnt smells, it could indicate that the unit is overheating or has an electrical problem. A musty or earthy aroma from your AC could signify mold or mildew growth inside the unit.
If you smell anything strange coming from your AC unit, it is important to shut it off immediately and call a professional for help.
5. Warm air
One of the most obvious signs that your air conditioner is going out is warm air from the vents.
If you notice that your home isn’t staying as cool as it should be or that the air from your vents is warmer than usual, it’s a good idea to call a professional for AC repair services.
Warm air can be caused by several factors, including a low refrigerant level or a problem with the compressor. Low refrigerant levels can also cause a frost build-up in your AC system.
Frost build-up can also be caused by other issues, such as a dirty air filter or a problem with the evaporator coil. If you see frost or ice on your AC unit, it’s essential to have it checked out by a professional as soon as possible.
If you see any of the signs mentioned above, it’s time to call in the experts at Patriot Pros. Our team can help diagnose and repair your AC unit so that you can stay cool all summer long. We understand that a broken AC unit can be a major inconvenience- not to mention expensive- so we offer 24/7 emergency services to our customers. Don’t suffer through another hot day without air conditioning- call Patriot Pro, your HVAC professionals!
