A properly functioning air conditioning system is critical to keeping your home cool and comfortable. However, like any other appliance, it can break down from time to time.
If you notice signs that your unit is breaking down, acting quickly is essential. Below are five signs that your AC needs repair:
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The unit isn’t cooling as well as it used to
If you’re not getting the same cooling performance out of your AC unit that you used to, it’s time for a repair. This could be due to a dirty air filter restricting airflow or a more severe problem like a Freon leak. A professional can diagnose the issue and make the necessary repairs.
A power bill that shoots up without a corresponding bump in how much you’re running your air conditioner is another clear indicator that your unit needs maintenance attention. Again, this could be due to several issues, from leaking ductwork to a broken thermostat switch. Either way, you’ll want a professional from air conditioning repair in Mesquite to look at your system.
Unpleasant odors from your vents also indicate that it’s time to call in a professional. If you can smell something like mold or musty odors, the system isn’t eliminating humidity from your home, which is dangerous for your family’s health.
Finally, if you hear loud noises from your unit—banging, screeching, or clinking—this isn’t normal and indicates it’s time for a repair. These loud sounds can signal loose parts that will cause damage if not fixed quickly. It’s best to let a professional handle this type of repair, as many electrical components in the unit can be dangerous if mismanaged.
It’s making strange noises
When your AC system runs smoothly, you should only hear light and gentle whooshing sounds that indicate air is moving through the ductwork. Anything else is a red flag that your unit needs attention. You may hear clicking sounds, squealing noises, and even foul odors from your vents. These are all signs that it’s time to call a technician for repairs or a replacement unit.
Clicking: If you hear a quick, repetitive clicking sound while your AC is in operation, it’s an indicator that the thermostat is failing and you need to replace it. You may also hear this sound when the compressor switches off or completes a cooling cycle.
Squealing: This sound can indicate several issues, but the most serious is that you’re low on refrigerant. Another possible cause is that your evaporator coil is dirty or the fan motor isn’t working correctly.
Rattling: This is a common problem and can signal that parts are starting to wear out or loosen. It can also indicate that twigs, branches, or leaves got stuck inside the unit. This is best fixed by shutting off power to the team at the breaker box and inspecting it for debris.
Banging indicates something is loose inside the unit and could damage internal equipment. You should always turn off your air conditioner if you hear a banging sound and call a professional to diagnose the issue before it worsens.
It’s leaking water
If your air conditioner leaks water, it is a sign that it needs repair. This can be due to several reasons, including a refrigerant leak. This is dangerous and should be fixed immediately by a professional. A clogged condensate drain line could also cause it. This line takes condensation from the air conditioning unit to the drain pan. When this becomes clogged, water drips from the air conditioner and could spill into your home.
Usually, the coils of an air conditioner are covered with insulation that helps the melted condensation flow down to the drain pan. This keeps the moisture out of your home and prevents it from building up on the coils. But if the insulation is damaged, it will deteriorate and eventually cause a leak. This problem should be addressed immediately to avoid expensive repairs and structural damage.
Another reason for a leaking air conditioner is that the drain line may have disconnected from the unit. Sometimes, this can happen when the unit is being serviced, dropped, or knocked over. If so, your air conditioner technician must reconnect the drain line. This is a relatively simple job and shouldn’t take long.
It’s making strange smells
Odd odors are a sure sign that something is off with your air conditioner. Depending on what kind of smell you’re experiencing, the problem could range from mild to severe. If you notice a burning plastic or gunpowder scent, it’s time to turn off the system immediately and call in a professional. A burning smell indicates the unit is generating heat due to mechanical failure.
A musty odor can indicate mold or mildew inside the unit or ductwork, posing health risks for your family. The smell will be unpleasant, but breathing in these contaminants can cause respiratory problems. An HVAC specialist can clean the system and ducts to reduce these odors.
The most alarming smell of all is a solid skunk-like scent. This is usually a sign that there’s a gas leak. Natural gas doesn’t smell on its own, so utilities and gas distributors use a chemical called Methyl Mercaptan to give it one. This chemical has a very distinctive smell, making it easy to detect. If you notice this smell, immediately turn off the system and call your local utility company or gas repair service. This will prevent the potentially dangerous situation from causing any further damage. If you cannot contact the gas company, you can also try turning on all the lights and opening the windows in your home.
