Constant use of your air conditioning system during the summer might push an old unit or a failing component beyond its capabilities. There are several warning signs indicating your AC unit requires repair services. Below are a few tell-tale signs that you need an air conditioning repair.

Water or Refrigerant Leakage

Water-cooled air conditioners rely on water and refrigerant to produce cool air. These liquids should remain within the unit. A water or refrigerant leakage from the unit can indicate several issues. The leading culprit could be a blocked or broken tube, causing a leakage in or around the unit.

Other potential causes of the leakage include a defective condensate pump or a complete condensate drain pump. Refrigerant leaks should be addressed immediately. Whether you are experiencing water or refrigerant leaks, find an experienced HVAC technician to repair your AC unit.

Increased Electric Bills

The benefits of keeping your AC unit running during summer outweigh the high electric bills. But if you notice the energy bill is higher than usual, your AC unit might be defective. Energy bills might spike to unreasonable levels without using the air conditioner constantly. The most common causes of this problem include a leakage, a damaged thermostat switch, or an old AC unit. Before considering a replacement, seek air conditioning maintenance services from an HVAC technician. Your technician can recommend repairing or replacing the unit depending on the severity of the problem.

Strange Odors

Air conditioners are designed to produce clean and filtered air. Any unpleasant smells from the vents indicate the need for an air conditioning repair. Before seeking professional help, determine the type of odor from the system. A strange odor may result from mold buildup, clogged filters, or burned-out wires.

Mold buildup creates a damp, earthy smell. It results from moisture collecting within the unit, causing mold to grow. Dirty filters and burnt-out wires can cause foul odors, especially in old or improperly maintained AC units.

Loud Noises

An air conditioning unit will make low-level noise while operating. If the unit makes loud or unusual noises, it might have a problem that requires immediate attention. Air conditioner noises that indicate a problem include grinding, buzzing, hissing, and banging sounds. To prevent further damage, shut it off and seek help from a repair technician.

AC units can make strange noises due to worn bearings, bad compressor coils, loose fan blades, or failing motors. Improper maintenance and regular usage can cause parts to wear out, become loose, or fail. Contact a repair technician to examine the unit and resolve the problem.

Insufficient Airflow

An air conditioner can blow out cool air, but the air may not circulate through your room. Insufficient or weak airflow is a sign of a failing AC unit that requires professional repair. The leading causes of insufficient airflow include a broken motor, clogged air filter, and defective fan.

If your home has duct systems, they may become blocked over time, preventing cool air from moving. An air conditioning repair service can help identify the root cause. After the repair, your technician may recommend ways to boost airflow, like installing an energy recovery ventilator (ERV).

Blowing Warm Air

Your air conditioner should blow out cold air during the hot summer to keep your home cool. Warm or hot air from the unit means it’s time for an air conditioning repair. Issues like low refrigerant levels or dirt accumulation can cause the unit to overheat and blow warm air. A frozen condenser coil or a faulty compressor could also be to blame. Contact a repair technician to examine your air conditioner and fix the underlying problem.

Seek Air Conditioning Repair Services Today

These are just a few of the signs that indicate your AC unit requires professional repair. Whether it is a minor or severe issue, turn off the unit and wait for your air conditioning repairman to arrive. Contact your repair technician today to examine the unit and fix any minor problems before they escalate.