Watch for Signs of a Broken AC This Summer!

Three Signs That AC Replacement or Repair Might Be Needed

With summer in full swing, it’s that time of year again when some air conditioners start having issues. The last thing any homeowner wants is an AC emergency, but they happen all too often when warning signs are ignored or not spotted promptly. This article is about three common signs that air conditioner repair or replacement might be needed. Read on to find out how to spot these signs and what to do about them. 

House Is Not Cooling

At its most basic, an air conditioner is meant to regulate the temperature in the house by removing warm, humid air and replacing it with cooler, drier air. This makes cooling problems one of the most obvious signs of something wrong with the air conditioner. If the home isn’t cooling as it should, or it seems to be struggling to reach the temperature set at the thermostat, it’s a sign that the home has a broken air conditioner. 

Unfortunately, it’s not always easy for homeowners to tell why the air conditioner isn’t cooling. It could be a variety of factors causing the issue. From a refrigerant leak or a blower problem to an issue with the thermostat or a motor, it’s hard to tell without the help of a professional. One thing’s for sure, though, the faster the issue is addressed, the less likely it is to become an emergency. 

Energy Bills Are Climbing

If the air conditioner seems to be cooling well, it doesn’t mean everything is okay. In fact, one of the best ways for homeowners to keep an eye on their air conditioner is by paying close attention to their energy bills. If there’s a sudden spike in the amount of energy usage that doesn’t have a logical explanation, it could be an issue with the AC. 

As air conditioners age, they tend to become less efficient. But this often leads to a gradual climb in cooling costs and not a sudden spike from one month to the next. This is especially true of systems that receive regular maintenance. Still, the age of the unit is something to consider. If the unit is newer, it could be an issue with a malfunctioning component causing the problem. If this is the case, having a professional HVAC technician inspect the unit is the next step. If the unit is older and gradually degrading, it could be time to consider an air conditioner replacement. 

Odd Noises and Bad Smells Are Coming From the Unit

Another sign to watch out for uses two of the five senses: hearing and smell. It could be time for AC repair when the air conditioner makes strange noises during operation. Some of the most common noises include clunking, banging, screeching, hissing, and rattling. Most of the time, these are easy repairs as it’s often a component that needs to be tightened or replaced. But sometimes, they can be a symptom of a larger issue. 

As for the sense of smell, it’s hard to ignore the stenches that come out of a malfunctioning air conditioner. The smell of ozone or burning plastic usually indicates an electrical malfunction. This calls for turning off the system and calling a professional to inspect it. Other odd smells could be from dirty air filters or refrigerant leaks. A rotten egg smell could be from a gas leak elsewhere in the house. Getting everyone out before calling the local gas company is best if it's a suspected gas leak. Whatever the issue, it’s best to deal with it immediately. An issue that could be resolved with a simple air conditioner repair can often turn into the need for a full-on AC replacement if not dealt with in a timely manner. 

About Elite Comfort Systems

Elite Comfort Systems is a family-owned and operated company serving Brentwood and the surrounding areas since 2008. They provide easy scheduling, transparent pricing, and 24/7 emergency service. Call them today for air conditioner repair in Brentwood, CA. 

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