With summer and hot weather right around the corner, having an air conditioning system that is functioning efficiently and providing your home with all of the cool air that it needs is critical. Taking the time to check and see if your air conditioning system is displaying signs that it may be in need of service, before the hottest months hit, is the best way to ensure that you don’t get stuck with an underperforming or completely broken air conditioner come July. With that in mind, here are six key symptoms that may indicate that your air conditioning system needs professional attention.
Lack of Cold Air
One of the biggest signs that your air conditioning system is in need of service is also the most obvious: your ac is not blowing cold air. If the air coming through your vents isn’t as cold as it normally is or simply isn’t cold at all, this could signal that your system needs a serious repair. A failing compressor or insufficient Freon could cause this lack of cold air, and both issues require professional help.
Weak Air Flow
If little air is coming through your vents even though you’ve set your air conditioning system to high, a couple of issues could be at fault. One possibility is a failing compressor. However, particularly if the weak air flow is isolated to only some of your home’s vents, the trouble could lie in the ducts themselves. Debris can build up within the ducts and vents, lowering air flow and potentially presenting a health risk. Getting your ducts professionally cleaned can resolve this issue.
Uneven Cooling Throughout Your Home
If some rooms in your home are too cold while other areas of your house remain at the proper temperature, this uneven cooling could signal an issue. However, in this case, the problem likely lies with your thermostat rather than with your actual air conditioning unit.
Unexplained Moisture Around Your System
Pools of leaking fluid around your air conditioning unit could indicate a couple of problems. A water leak might be an indication that the drain tube that carries away condensation is broken or blocked. On the other hand, if the fluid is refrigerant, the problem is quite serious; such leaks can present serious health hazards and should receive professional attention from an expert immediately.
Odd Sounds
You may find that your air conditioning system makes any number of unusual sounds when turned on. Grinding, grating or squealing noises all indicate underlying issues, and failing to take heed of this sign can lead to more serious issues. Squealing might indicate that a belt has dislocated or that your system needs lubrication, while grinding can signal broken motor bearings.
Bad Odors
Unsurprisingly, foul odors wafting from your air conditioning system’s vents can be a sign of an issue within the system. Often, pungent odors are a sign of corroded wire insulation, while a musty smell could mean that mold has crept into your unit or ducts.
With summer weather already upon us, go ahead and take the time to thoroughly check for signs that your air conditioning unit may need servicing. If you find anything that concerns you, or don’t feel confident in properly appraising your AC unit yourself, give Service First AC & Heating a call at (210) 521-1500.