The last thing you want is to have your central air conditioning system act up on the hottest day of the year. There are ways you can tell if your AC system is having issues. Pay attention to these five warning signs that something isn’t right.
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You’re Hearing Unusual Noises
When it’s operating, it’s normal for your AC to make a little noise, but it’s often a low, steady blowing sound like that of a fan. Sometimes, something goes wrong and you start hearing unusual noises. They are your warning signs that something is wrong. Here are some of the troublesome noises you can hear.
Banging or Clanging:
Banging and clanging sounds can signify that there is something stuck in your condenser. It can be as simple as dirt, leaves, and sticks that have gotten into the outside unit. If that’s the case, a good cleaning may be all that’s needed. This may be something you can do on your own, but if you’re uncertain or you cannot get an item unstuck, call a professional in Florida AC repairs.
If the bang happens when the AC system is starting up, that is concerning. It can be a sign that your compressor needs replacement. This is one of the more costly repairs, and it’s time to look at the age of your AC system. If it’s more than 10 years old and is no longer covered by a warranty, you need to consider replacing it.
Finally, you may have a broken or out-of-balance fan motor. Again, this can be a costly repair and it might be time to consider a new central AC system instead.
Clicking:
You may normally hear a click as your AC system turns on and off. If the clicking is continual, it’s a problem. It may mean that you have something caught in the fans, that your thermostat is faulty, or that your capacitor is shot. It’s also the noise you’ll often hear if your system’s electricals and switches are not working correctly. Buzzing is another sign of electrical issues.
Hissing:
Hissing is typically the sound you’ll hear if there is a Same Day Service leak. It can be the result of damage or deterioration of the line with excessive use. It can also be a leak at the compressor valve. Either way, you want leaks to be addressed quickly to prevent coolant from causing issues within the environment.
Is the hissing more like a whistle? Check your air filter to see if it’s dirty. A dirty filter can impede airflow. If that doesn’t help, it’s time to have your ducts inspected. Whistling sounds are often the signs of holes or cracks in the ductwork. If animals have gotten into them, they can create tremendous damage.
Rattling:
Rattling noises indicate that something is loose. Screws are holding some things in place, such as fans or air vent covers. If the screws are loose, they may allow the component to start ratting. Tighten screws on your own, but if a fan blade is loose and becomes bent, the fan blades may need replacing and that’s something you need to have an AC technician do.
Screeching or Squealing:
One of the worst noises is when a high-pitched squeal starts. It’s not going to be the most expensive AC repair you’ll come across, but it’s impossible to sleep, work, or relax when there is an incessant squeal from a damaged fan motor bearing or a broken or worn belt.
Squealing can also be caused by a compressor that has developed high pressure. Do not run your AC if the squealing is coming from the area of your compressor. There’s a risk of excessive pressure causing an explosion. It’s not common, but the risk is there, so it’s better to be cautious and immediately call a Florida AC expert to have your system evaluated.
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It’s Too Warm in Some of Your Rooms
Your bedroom is right below the attic and it’s nice and cold, but the floors on your first level are sweltering. When you have uneven heating, it’s a sign that something is wrong. Many things could be causing this problem, including a clogged air filter or ducts that are leaking air into the walls.
Check the air filter first. Hold it up to the light and see if it looks dirty or if it’s covered in a lot of dust, dirt, and hair. Replacing the filter may fix your issue, but if it doesn’t, you should call in a professional to inspect your ducts and troubleshoot the uneven cooling.
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Your Energy Bills Are Climbing
When an AC system isn’t working properly, you’ll see your energy bills increase. Most AC systems already account for 40% of your electricity bill, if you run it at 78º F. Setting your home’s thermostat lower than that adds about 8% to your electricity bill.
If your central AC system is running non-stop trying to cool your home enough, your bills will skyrocket. Check your energy use as often as you can and pay very close attention to unexpected increases. Call an AC technician as soon as you spot them.
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Water Is Leaking From the Unit
If there is water leaking from your unit, it’s a problem that you might be able to fix, but it depends on where it’s coming from. The first place to check is the condensate line. Cooling the air will build up condensation, but usually, the condensate line drains this water outside from the drain pain. A clogged line can’t properly drain, which can lead to an overflow of condensation. Clear the line with hot water and vinegar if you can.
Another issue can be ice build-up, and that’s a bigger issue that requires emergency AC repairs. It can signify restricted airflow. It can also be a sign that the Same Day Service is low. It’s important to have a qualified technician check the system.
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Your AC System is Blowing Warm Air
The final sign that it’s time for AC repairs is the worst to experience on a hot day. You come home and find every room is hot and humid. Typically, your home’s air is cooled over the coils and blown back into your home. But, a Same Day Service leak or low coolant levels make it impossible for the system to properly cool the air.
Before you panic, check your thermostat. Is it set to the right temperature? If it accidentally got switched to the fan setting or turned up too high, changing the setting should fix the issue. If it’s not that, call an AC technician to help diagnose the problem.
Same-day repairs are essential when it comes to summer’s oppressive heat and humidity. All Year Cooling can help you with your emergency AC repair needs. We’re a licensed and insured full-service dealer, repair, and air conditioning service with decades of experience. We’ve been helping South Florida’s residents since 1973.
All Year Cooling will give you an honest assessment to determine what’s wrong, what it will cost to repair it, and whether the repair makes financial sense if your system is older. If it is time for a new system, we’re an ENERGY STAR partner and an FPL participating contractor. That means we’ll help you secure instant rebates with FPL and tax incentives through the federal government. Ask us about our 10-year extended warranty that provides you peace of mind all decade long.