Top Signs its Time to Repair Your AC
Southern California summers can be brutal. We all know this; we’ve all lived through it. To save yourself, and your family, the misery of a summer without air conditioning, it’s best to schedule your annual tune-up now. If you want to take a walk on the wild side and forego the maintenance for now, we’re sharing some thing to watch out for. Here are the top signs it’s time to repair your AC.
Poor Air Flow
Did you turn on your AC and find it weaker than last summer? This could easily be attributed to an issue with your air conditioner. Poor air flow can be a simple fix, like changing out your air filter. Or a larger fix, like replacing or repairing the system’s fan. Either way, if you’re experiencing poor air flow, you should call an HVAC technician. They’re able to diagnose the problem and give you the best solution.
Sudden Spike in Utility Bills
One of the most obvious signs it’s time to repair your AC is if your utility bills suddenly go up. HVAC accounts for nearly half your bills, so when they spike, it makes a difference. If your air system is running inefficiently, it could mean a big difference in your utility bills. To keep your HVAC system running to the best of its ability, make sure to schedule regular tune-ups.
Warm Air
An air conditioner’s basic function is to make sure treated air is cool. If you’re feeling warm air coming from your vents when the AC Is on, the first step should be to check the thermostat. If the thermostat is set to “cool” and warm air is still flowing, this is a big problem. Warm air could be an indicator your system’s compressor has failed, or that your system is working overtime and can’t cool down. Either way, it’s necessary to call an HVAC technician.
That Humidity isn’t the Ocean
If you live in one of our beach cities, you understand that a certain level of humidity in the home is acceptable. But, for anyone else, the humidity should be outside, not inside. One of the main functions of your air conditioner is to control moisture levels in your home. If left unchecked, rogue moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth in your home and HVAC system. If you notice the air in your home is wetter than usual, it’s time to call an HVAC professional.
Strange Noises
When you turn on your AC unit for the first time, some small sounds are expected and even normal. But, if you hear anything unusual, that could be cause for concern. Grinding could mean metals parts are broken and rubbing together. Screeching could indicate a loose belt, and banging be problems with your motor or fan. If any of these sounds are coming from your HVAC system, that a sign it’s time to repair your AC.
Unusual Smells
Smell something strange? It could be your air conditioner. If an unpleasant odor is wafting through your home, check your vents. Strong smells could indicate frayed wiring or microbial growth in the unit or your ductwork. Either way, none of these are good. If you’re smelling something strange, schedule an appointment with your HVAC technician.
Troubleshooting the Thermostat
We covered how thermostat issues can mess with your HVAC system, but it could be a whole new problem if your system isn’t responding to a functional thermostat. If you’ve checked the thermostat and everything is functioning properly, but your home air still feels off, it could indicate a problem with your system’s sensors. To restore proper air flow, call your HVAC technician.
Time to Call Service Champions
Service Champions Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is dedicated to serving homes of Southern California. If you are experiencing any of the signs it’s time to repair your AC, we’re here to help. To schedule service from our expert technicians, reach out to our friendly call center representatives, or fill out the form here to book an appointment online.