A 2019 ConsumerAffairs survey found that air conditioning repairs were some of the most common home repairs done, with 23.67% of respondents getting a repair. AC repairs are often necessary to keep your HVAC running smoothly throughout the year.
If you push off these repairs, it can damage your air conditioner and may lead to an expensive air conditioning repair.
Because of this, it is essential that homeowners learn to recognize the signs of a failing AC unit. Do you want to learn more about the AC repair in Columbia, SC, and when you should call an AC repairman?
Keep reading this article for the top seven signs that you need an AC repair service.
1. Blowing Warm Air
One of the most common signs that you need an AC repair service is if your air conditioner is blowing warm air. When your AC isn’t doing its main job, you need to get it fixed as soon as possible. Otherwise, your house may be stuck at an uncomfortable temperature during the summer months.
One of the most common causes of warm air from an air conditioner is low refrigerant levels. The refrigerant is a chemical that cools the warm air that your air conditioner takes in. Once the air is cool, your air conditioner can circulate it throughout your home.
Another common cause of warm air from your AC is damage to your compressor. The AC compressor will compress the refrigerant and send it through your system. If the compressor no longer works, the refrigerant will not be able to cool the air properly.
2. Strange Sounds
Next, you should be aware of your air conditioner making strange sounds as it is running. While all air conditioners make a bit of noise when they turn on, unusual sounds can signify the need for AC repair or replacement.
For example, if a belt slips from your air conditioning system, it can lead to a squealing or squeaky sound coming from your AC. A screeching sound may also be due to air conditioning parts that are not lubricated correctly.
Air conditioners can also make a banging noise if there is a loose or broken part.
If you notice any of these sounds, it is best to search for “air conditioning repair near me.” An HVAC technician may be able to diagnose the issue simply by hearing the sound your AC makes.
3. Foul Odor
Air conditioners in need of repair may also give off a foul odor. While it may be difficult to source the smell coming from your air conditioner, it can be a sign of many serious issues with your AC.
One of the most common causes of a foul odor is mildew. Mold and mildew can grow in AC units, especially if they don’t have proper drainage. Because air conditioners remove excess moisture and humidity from the air, it can lead to bacteria and mold growth.
You may also smell rotten eggs or an electrical smell coming from your AC. These odors can be the sign of a gas leak and need to be resolved immediately.
4. Thermostat is Off
If your thermostat doesn’t show the right temperature or regularly turns on when it isn’t supposed to, you may need to get your air conditioner repaired.
This may be a problem with the sensor. If it is dirt or needs to be recalibrated, it will not show the right temperature in your home. This makes it much more difficult to keep your house at a comfortable temperature!
If this is an issue, an HVAC professional can help you identify the cause of your thermostat problems.
5. Excess Moisture and Humidity
As was mentioned before, air conditioners work by removing excess humidity from the air. If your air conditioner breaks down, you may notice that your home begins to feel muggier and that there is more moisture in the air.
Similarly, you may notice leaking out of your HVAC system. Leaks can be due to low refrigerant levels, clogged drain lines, or even frozen coils.
If you see water pooling around your AC unit, you need to hire a professional HVAC repair service as soon as possible.
6. Poor Airflow
You may also need to get an AC repair if you are experiencing poor airflow from your air conditioner. This is a clear sign that your AC isn’t working as efficiently as it should or that there is a problem with your ductwork.
This can be a leak in the air ducts or it could even be a blockage that keeps air from getting through. Poor airflow can also be caused by a broken motor or a clogged air filter.
7. Higher Electric Bills
Finally, you may need to get your air conditioner repaired if your electric bills have started increasing. While using your air conditioner will make your bills higher, inefficient or broken air conditioners will lead to a significant increase in your energy usage.
This is because your air conditioner has to work harder than it normally does. It takes more energy to keep your house cool, so your bills will reflect this. By finding a company that offers air conditioner repair near me, they can improve the efficiency of your AC and help you lower your energy bills!
Need Help With an AC Repair? Find Services for Air Conditioning Near Me
AC repair is an essential part of HVAC maintenance for homeowners. By recognizing these signs, you can get your AC repaired before the damage worsens. Searching for “air conditioning services near me” will also help you repair the damage properly.
If you need help with air conditioner repair in Columbia, SC, Cool Care Heating & Air can help! We offer AC repair services, preventative HVAC maintenance, and more.
Contact our air conditioner repairman to learn more about our services and book an appointment with our HVAC experts.
