10 Signs Your AC Needs a Repair (Or Replacement)

Knowing the signs that you need your AC repaired can prevent more significant repairs or even failure. Catching a problem early within your HVAC system is important. Be attentive to how your AC is functioning, and it could save you money and frustration of bigger problems. So, check in on your AC system periodically and be familiar with these 10 signs your AC needs repair (or to be replaced).

Sign #1: Little to no airflow

The sign of weak airflow often indicates a problem with either the compressor or air ducts and is something that your HVAC tech should evaluate. 

Sign #2: AC is blowing warm air

Warm air coming from your vents is one of the signs your AC needs repair. It could indicate a problem with the compressor or that your system is low on refrigerant. It could even mean that you have a duct problem somewhere that is pulling air from outside or an attic space rather than from the compressor. 

Sign #3: Unpleasant odors coming from the AC

Odors can be indicators of multiple issues, but two of these issues are electrical issues and mold contamination. If you smell a musty smell from your AC, there is likely mold in your system somewhere, and blowing the spores into your home will cause it to spread and also make your family very sick. However, if you notice a strong burning smell, there is a good chance you may have a problem with the electrical wiring or the insulation around it in the unit.

Sign #4: Unusual sounds coming from the AC

Here are a few of the sounds and what they might possibly mean for your AC system:

Clicking from the outdoor unit as it runs. This could mean there is a small obstruction in the fan of your outdoor unit. You should inspect the fan and remove anything that could be striking it as it runs.

Clicking from outdoor unit and won’t turn on. This clicking sound could indicate an electrical problem in one or more of the system components.

Bubbling or gurgling noise. Your condensate drain line is likely gurgling. If this is your only problem, it will likely not cause any bigger problems. However, you may also have a refrigerant leak that would lead to bigger issues.

Clanging or banging sound from the outdoor unit. This noise is likely an indicator that the fan in your outdoor unit is hitting something. There may be a larger obstruction or the mount of the fan may have come loose. If that is the case, the wobbling is causing it to hit the protective cage around it.

Squealing sound coming from the indoor unit. A squealing noise is usually a good indicator that there is a problem with your fan belt. The sound may come and go, making you think that it’s not a big problem. However, if the belt is damaged, eventually it will break, which would leave you with no working AC. 

Metal on metal screeching. If you hear this sound, it is likely coming from your outdoor unit. The metal-on-metal sound can often be caused by the fan motor bearings going out on your outdoor unit.

High-pitched hissing or screaming. This sound is likely from your compressor. This sound can indicate a high-pressure buildup in the system, which can be very dangerous. Your system should be equipped with a safety shut-off switch to automatically shut your system down if this is the case. However, if your system continues to try to function, it is best to turn off your system until your HVAC technician arrives.

Sign #5: Malfunctioning thermostat

If your AC system is not turning on or only runs for short periods of time before shutting off, your thermostat may be to blame. First, check your batteries and if that doesn’t help, your thermostat may need to be replaced to ensure your system can run accurately again.

Sign #6: Frequent repairs

If you notice that you’ve had to repair multiple components of your system or unit in the last few months, it may be time to consider an ac replacement. Your technician should be able to advise you on the overall state of your system and what the most economical & sound decision should be. 

Sign #7: Humidity in the home

If you find that your HVAC system is no longer helping to reduce the humidity in your home, it is time to call your HVAC repair company. Humidity fosters mold and mildew growth and can cause multiple other issues for your family’s health.

Sign #8: Moisture leaks in or around the HVAC system

The most serious type of leak you may experience would be a refrigerant leak. Refrigerants are poisonous, so any refrigerant leak is cause for concern. If you have a condensate leak, the drain line for condensation may be blocked or broken. 

Sign #9: Spikes in utility costs

If your power bill suddenly shoots up inexplicably, the efficiency of your HVAC system could be dropping. If you notice a rise that does not seem in sync with the increased use of your AC, it wouldn’t hurt for your HVAC tech to check things out. 

Sign #10: Age of your system

The last of the signs your ac needs repair is the age of your current unit. Typically, fifteen to twenty years is a good life expectancy for an air conditioning unit in 2022. The expense of replacement could be significant, but a new unit will also function much more efficiently and will save money on utility costs, and avoid the headaches of repairs.

So You Think You Need an Air Conditioning Repair Service?

Let’s go over 5 useful tips that will help you get through these frustrating moments quicker and easier! Here are some basic HVAC pointers that every homeowner should know before calling in the professionals for an air conditioning repair service.

• • How long has it been since you changed your AC filter? An old clogged-up filter can restrict airflow in your home and put a lot of strain on your air conditioner. It may be time for a replacement.
    
  • If you notice a build-up of ice inside of your AC handler, turn your ac unit on the fan setting for a while. This should give your unit time for the ice to melt and return to working order. If that didn’t work for you, then most likely you have a coolant problem which will have to be determined by a trained HVAC professional.
  • Take a stroll outside and check the conditions of your outdoor AC unit. Do the fins around the outside of your AC unit appear to be damaged, bent, or folded down? If so, take some time to straighten out and tidy up the fins for smooth airflow and proper functionality.
  • Do you see a lot of dirt and debris built up around your unit that may be preventing or constricting proper airflow? If so, clear a few feet of space around your unit of any debris buildup or overgrown vegetation.
  • In some cases, you may even need to completely disconnect your unit’s power, remove the top covering, and give the unit’s fins a thorough washing from the inside out (Be careful not to get the electrical equipment in the center of your unit too wet, as this could damage your system).

HVAC systems are complex and require a lot of properly functioning components. This means there are a lot of components that could need repair. However, if you watch for signs and stay vigilant to the function of your HVAC system, you may be able to catch early signs before they become big problems.

It May be Time to Call an HVAC Professional

The need for an air conditioning repair service is going to happen; it’s just that simple, which is why it’s so important to have a trained HVAC professional in mind to call for assistance at all times.

If you’ve gone through all of the AC troubleshooting options listed above and still aren’t getting results, it’s time to call the professionals at Madd Air Heating & Cooling. Madd Air offers the best air conditioning repair services in the business!  Call 281-354-9600 to schedule your ac repair service today!