Sometimes, the need for AC repair is clear. Other times, it’s less obvious, but waiting can result in a bigger headache and a larger repair bill. Let’s explore a dozen signs that the time to call for an AC repair technician is now.
1. Heightened Electricity Use
Air conditioners are highly efficient cooling solutions. The cooing process is key to their efficiency; an AC transfers heat from inside to outside your home. That allows for a lot of heat moved with a relatively small amount of energy consumed.
Of course, that assumes a well-functioning AC. Even an issue as simple as a dirty evaporator coil can cause the heat exchange to be a lot less efficient. The AC then uses more electricity, and your costs go up. Many other issues can compromise your AC’s efficiency. Schedule an AC diagnostic if you notice your bill indicating a rising usage or you receive a thermostat alert.
2. AC Won’t Turn On
An AC that won’t turn on is one of those obvious scenarios alluded to earlier. That said, before you call for help, rule out any basic problems. Ensure there’s no power outage or other home-wide electrical issues. Check that you haven’t experienced an isolated tripped circuit breaker you can reset. Inspect the HVAC filter to ensure it hasn’t clogged and is preventing the AC from cycling on. You’ll also want to make sure the thermostat settings haven’t been accidentally changed. Once you’ve ruled out those potential causes, it’s time to call in the pros for a full inspection.
3. AC Blows Warm Air
Another common issue is that the AC turns on but blows room-temperature air. This indicates that the system is getting power and the blower functions, but there’s something wrong with the cooling.
This could be due to a refrigerant leak, so a technician must find the leaks, seal them, and replace the system’s refrigerant. It could be a case of a dirty evaporator coil; regular AC maintenance will prevent this problem. It can also indicate a problem with the outdoor compressor unit, which houses the condenser pump, coil, and fan.
4. You Can Hear the Outdoor Unit Struggling
The condenser pump, coil, and fan all experience substantial wear throughout the cooling season. This is among the top reasons seasonal AC maintenance is so critical. Left unattended, the wear can worsen and eventually cause what the industry calls hard starts. Warning signs include loud initial bangs or pops and repeated clicking or thumping. If you notice your outdoor unit is hard starting, turn off the AC and schedule a repair right away. Failure to do so can lead to an expensive pump repair or replacement.
5. Frozen Evaporator Coils
The evaporator coils in the indoor air handler can accumulate ice to the point the system stops working altogether. Common causes include inadequate airflow and low refrigerant pressure. The root cause can be as simple as a clogged HVAC filter. It can also be much more complex, such as the blower rotating too slowly or the system leaking refrigerant. If you need to call for a repair, turn off the cooling, but let the blower continue to run. That will allow the system to start defrosting before the technician gets there.
6. Repeated Tripped Circuit Breaker
Circuit breakers protect your electrical systems from irregular power, and an isolated trip typically isn’t cause for concern. Reset the breaker to see if that fixes your AC problem. If it trips again, leave it and schedule an AC repair instead. Continuing to reset it could cause further damage to your system and be a safety hazard because a faulty control board or bad wire or connection could cause a fire.
7. Squealing and Other Unusual Noises
Your AC system may have belts, ball bearings, or a combination. They require seasonal lubrication and eventual replacement. Squealing is a common sign of bearing and belt wear. Grinding can indicate the blower needs adjustment or there’s an obstruction. You may also hear rumbling in your ducts. That can suggest worn seals or damaged mounting hardware, which can cause a significant loss of conditioned air.
8. Weak Airflow
Many AC-related issues can result in weak airflow, including problems with your filter, ductwork, thermostat, blower, and refrigeration. You may notice weak airflow when you put your hand to a vent, but it can also manifest in other ways. Homeowners may notice warm spots in certain areas or rooms that feel warmer than the rest. Another sign is a temperature difference between the ground and upper level greater than 2 degrees.
9. Short Cycling
AC cycles vary based on many factors, including the outdoor temperature, the size of your home, and the AC system. Still, the typical cycle occurs two to three times an hour for 10 to 15 minutes. If an AC cycles on and off more frequently, it’s a serious concern. While the cause can be as simple as a clogged filter, the wear and tear on the system can be substantial. It can lead to breakdowns and even a reduced system lifespan.
10. Long Cycling
Long cycling is when your AC runs for longer than 20 minutes. This, too, can cause excessive wear because the system never has time to recover and can eventually overheat. Extreme outdoor temperature, unrealistic temperature settings, and thermostat malfunctions are the most common causes. If you can’t correct the problem through thermostat adjustment, turn the system off and wait for the technician to arrive.
11. High Humidity Levels
Homeowners should target 60% or lower relative humidity (RH) in summer. While your AC isn’t a dehumidifier, it does dehumidify as a byproduct of the cooling process. In most climates, an AC should be able to stay below 60% RH. If your AC suddenly struggles to do that, that’s a clear sign something is wrong. The problem could be as simple as a dirty filter, as the reduced airflow doesn’t allow for as much condensation. It could also be a clogged drain line or air leakage in the ducts. In the latter case, call professionals for duct repair.
12. Musty Odors
Whether fleeting or persistent, musty odors are cause for concern. They indicate mildew or mold that could negatively affect your health. If you haven’t scheduled an AC tune-up, there may be microbial growth on the evaporator coil. The problem may also be moisture in the ducts that’s led to mold or mildew growth. We also offer duct cleaning to improve and maintain your indoor air quality.
Emergency and Same-Day AC Repair in the Greater Cleveland Area
Anderson Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric is a heating and AC company with locations in Mentor and Warrensville Heights, OH. We are a family business that has EPA certification and employs NATE-certified technicians. Our technicians repair all ducted and ductless air conditioner brands and models. We are available around the clock for emergency repairs and can otherwise provide same-day service. Call us at your convenience with questions or to schedule an AC repair.
