Four Signs Your AC Unit Needs To Be Prepared
During those hot summer months, few things are more valuable in your home than an air conditioning unit. Unfortunately, few things are more frustrating in life than when your AC unit decides to stop working. If you're fortunate enough to spot the issue and get it fixed, you'll most likely be ok, but many times, AC problems catch homeowners unaware. Below are a few signs that you can watch for to determine if your AC is about to go out. If you notice any of them, schedule air conditioning services as soon as possible.
Blowing Hot Air
The main function of an AC unit is to blow cold air, so if your unit is blowing warm air, then it needs to be fixed. The reasons for this can be numerous. Either the condenser coils are bad, the air, the compressor is broken, the refrigerant is low, there's a problem with ductwork, or a number of other issues. Only a company that specializes in air conditioning repair can diagnose and treat the issue though, so it's best to get it looked at by a professional if you sense any issues.
Weird Sounds and Smells
Normally AC units make virtually no sound (except for when they turn on) and are completely odorless, so if your AC unit is noisy and smelly, it's time to have a technician look at it. While the problem could be as simple as a bolt that has fallen loose and is rattling around in your vent, it could also be an indication that you have water damage forming. If you have water damage, you'll eventually have an even bigger problem: mold. Mold in your ductwork is a recipe for all sorts of health problems.
Excessive Humidity
If you live in a part of the world that is used to humidity, you may not even notice it if it's inside your home, but the air conditioning unit should eliminate that from forming in your home. Not only is uncomfortable, but it's also a sign of possible water damage, so schedule air conditioning services to figure out what's going on.
Skyrocketing Utility Bills
Most energy bills are the same every year, so a sudden increase in your energy bills means that something is wrong somewhere. Have a technician inspect it, and if necessary, perform basic AC repair. With regular air conditioning services scheduled year round, you should be able to stay on top of small issues before they become big problems and keep more money in your pocket where it belongs.