How Do You Know You Need AC Repair?

Repairing your air conditioning system is cheaper than having to replace it; there’s no question about that. But how do you know if you need repair work done on your AC? Your system may be giving you hints that it’s not running efficiently or optimally. Listening, and taking quick corrective action, can save you thousands of dollars. If your AC is doing any of the following eight things, you should schedule a service appointment as soon as you’re able.

Blowing Warm Air

Warm air coming from your AC is one of the major signs your system is in need of repair. First, check your thermostat and make sure it's set to cool, and that the temperature is set lower than your home’s current temperature. If that’s all set properly, it’s time to contact a professional because you could be low on refrigerant. There could also be an issue with the compressor or the ductwork, which is why you’ll need an HVAC technician to assess the situation.

 

Providing Insufficient Airflow

Poor airflow is another common sign that your air conditioner isn’t working properly. Low airflow can result from poor efficiency or from a blockage, as well as from problems with the compressor or ductwork. While some of the causes of insufficient airflow—like a clogged air filter or broken motor—are easy fixes, there’s no way to know until someone inspects your system. If you can’t feel air coming from your vents, or you’ve noticed your system has been running more than usual, it’s time to call in a professional.

Cycling Frequently

Your AC’s cooling cycles should be relatively consistent. Yes, during the dog days of summer, it might be doing some overtime, but it shouldn’t be cycling on and off constantly. If it is, you’ll need to get your system repaired. A quick tune-up could be all you need to get your system functioning optimally once more.

 

Not Controlling Humidity

Your air conditioner should automatically modulate humidity levels in your home. If your system isn’t keeping moisture levels under control, you need AC repair. Humidity can foster the growth of mold and mildew, leading to potential health issues. Your system may just need a recalibration, or you might need to incorporate a whole-house dehumidifier into your HVAC system.

 

Leaking Water

While your AC uses a liquid refrigerant, and the system may occasionally produce condensation,  neither of these should be leaking. Any pooled water or active leaking needs to be addressed immediately, especially if the fluid is an odd color. It’s important an experienced HVAC technician take a look at your leaky AC, as leaks can damage your home, cause structural problems and encourage the growth of mold and mildew.

 

Making Unusual Noises

Low-level noise coming from your AC is to be expected. However, any unfamiliar noise—especially if it is sudden, strange or loud—is an indicator that you need to have your system looked at. Different sounds can mean different issues, which is why you need a technician to diagnose and repair your air conditioner. 

• Rattling: Rattling usually indicates a loose part, which can damage your system if not addressed.
• Clicking: If the noise is happening while the system is running, there is likely a small obstruction. If clicking happens and the system won’t turn on, there may be an electrical issue with one of the system’s components.
• Gurgling: This could just be the drain line, however, it could also be a refrigerant leak, which is a much bigger concern.
• Banging: A banging noise from your outside unit likely indicates the fan is either hitting an obstruction or that the fan mount has come loose. 
• Squealing: Coming from the outdoor unit, a squealing noise indicates there is probably an issue with your fan belt. This may be an intermittent noise that you want to ignore, but if the belt snaps, you’ll have no AC, so it’s best to get this taken care of sooner rather than later.
• Screeching: If your system sounds like metal is scraping metal, there’s a good chance your fan motor bearings are starting to wear out in the outdoor unit, and the fan will need to be replaced.
• Hissing: Hissing or screaming noises are likely attributable to the compressor. The noise indicates a system pressure build up. The automatic safety should trigger the system to shut down to prevent a dangerous situation. However, if you hear this sort of noise and your system continues to operate, turn it off and call a technician immediately. 

Causing Bad Odors

Unpleasant odors definitely indicate your AC needs to be checked out. While it may be a matter of just cleaning out the ductwork, or adding a ultraviolet (UV) component to tackle microbial growth, there are times when bad odors are indicators of more pressing problems. Both mold and electrical problems are associated with bad smells—a musty smell for mold and a burning smell for electrical issues. If you smell either of these, you need to have an HVAC technician take a look at your AC as soon as you can. Mold spores blowing throughout the house can make your family sick, and any electrical issues are a potential fire hazard.   

 

Increasing Energy Costs

If your energy bill has increased dramatically, your AC may not be running efficiently. While it’s normal for your bill to fluctuate seasonally, and even month to month, any significant change could indicate you’re having a problem with your HVAC system. If you’ve noticed this problem, it makes sense to call a technician to do some diagnostic testing. Your thermostat or ductwork could be causing a problem, or your AC may be getting old and in need of replacing. 

 

To keep your air conditioning system at optimal operation, it’s best to head off problems before they start by having routine maintenance performed on your system. At Kale Co., our skilled technicians will help you get the most out of your system by performing scheduled inspections and monitoring your AC for both efficiency and wear and tear. 

Our VIP maintenance agreement provide a way for you to easily and affordably make sure your AC system is operating. Our contracts provide not only for crucial maintenance, but also give you a discount on any repairs that need to be made.

Of course, there are still unexpected problems that crop up. If they do, get in contact with Kale Co. as soon as possible, so that we can help minimize any problems. Our repair technicians are professionally trained and certified, and keep up their training at our in-house facilities. They are trained to work on any make or model of AC, and are available 24/7 in case of emergency.

Kale Co. offers warranties, rebates and financing to help make your AC repairs economical. So if you are experiencing any problems with your AC system—warm air, poor airflow, leaks, humidity, bad smells or noises—schedule an appointment with our technicians so we can get your AC back in working order as soon as possible. An inefficient, improperly maintained system will cost you money and won’t keep you comfortable. Let Kale Co. fix that for you! 

Contact Kale Co. Today!