Know When to Call for Air Conditioner Repair
Your HVAC system is a complex network of machinery with many elements working together to keep your building healthy, safe, and comfortable during the hot summer months. Each of these parts contributes to the overall functionality of the system and is vulnerable to wear and tear as a consequence of the technology’s day-to-day operations.
Over time, parts will inevitably begin to break down; however, this is usually not a cause for concern. As long as you are diligent about regular maintenance of your HVAC system, most issues can be avoided before they become more serious.
Sometimes, however, routine maintenance is not enough. Certain issues may arise that must be addressed immediately by an HVAC professional, before they escalate into more serious problems that can ultimately lead to costly repairs and expensive breakdowns. In the following blog post, we’ll discuss warning signs that will help you determine when to call your HVAC professional for air conditioner repair so you can save money and stay safe during the summer heat.
Warning Sign #1: Reduced Airflow
One of the most common—and most frequently neglected—problems that can occur in an HVAC system is poor air circulation. It doesn’t matter how well everything else in the system is working, if the air cannot be circulated effectively, the system will not provide adequate cooling in a building.
There are several telltale signs that may indicate poor airflow. Uneven cooling is one of the most common; you may find yourself sweating in one room and needing a jacket in the next. You may also be able to detect a reduction in air circulation by holding a hand up to a nearby vent. If there is little or no air flowing through it, then your system is in need of professional repair.
Reduced airflow may be the result of obstruction, such as blocked filters or a buildup of dust and dirt in the ductwork. While changing or cleaning air filters might be something you can do on your own, duct cleaning will require a pro.
A damaged or weakened fan motor will also diminish airflow. If the blower fan isn’t functioning properly, it’s best to call for professional air conditioner repair to restore your system to its full functionality.
Warning Sign #2: Strange Noises
If you hear strange noises when your HVAC system is active, it may indicate a serious malfunction, so contact an HVAC contractor for assistance. For example, you may hear a rattling sound if one of the mechanical parts in your ventilation system has become damaged. A fan belt may have broken, or a foreign object may be stuck somewhere in the ductwork.
A damaged refrigerant coil can create a hissing sound as coolant escapes from it. This will cause a pressure drop that may prevent the air conditioner from being able to provide cooling. Since refrigerant should only be handled by trained and certified professionals, contact your HVAC technician if this is a concern.
You may also hear a buzzing sound due to an electrical problem. If you notice this, contact a professional immediately! Electrical issues can create a fire hazard or put the building’s inhabitants at risk of electrocution, so this sound can indicate a serious safety issue.
Warning Sign #3: Warm Air Output
Sometimes, no matter how cool the setting is on your thermostat, you may notice that only warm air is entering the room through the vents. There are several possible causes for this issue, but all of them require the intervention of an HVAC professional.
The most obvious cause is a problem with the coolant. A loss of pressure (which may be accompanied by the hissing sound mentioned above) can mean that the system cannot effectively cool the air in the building.
Warm air may also be a sign of a malfunctioning thermostat. The thermostat, being the “brain” of the system, tells the HVAC system when to cycle on and off. If, for whatever reason, it fails to communicate effectively with the rest of the system, it will not be able to cool the building, and professional air conditioner repair must be performed.
Warning Sign #4: Odd Odors
Odd smells coming from your HVAC system may also be a clear sign that repairs are needed. They are unpleasant, and they can indicate a potential health hazard putting the inhabitants of the building at risk. For example, a musty smell may indicate that mold or mildew is spreading within the ventilation system. While this may or may not actually hamper the cooling ability of the air conditioner, it will certainly introduce allergens and toxins into the indoor atmosphere, which may prove harmful.
Different smells can be warning signs of other possible HVAC problems. A burning smell, for example, can indicate friction in the ventilation system or even the beginnings of a fire caused by an electrical problem. If you detect this type of smell, contact your HVAC professional immediately.
Warning Sign #5: Rising Energy Bills
Sometimes, HVAC problems will be more subtle. You might not hear, feel, see, or smell anything obvious, but month after month, you notice your energy costs are increasing. This means that your system is losing efficiency, forcing it to use more energy to provide the same amount of cooling. This can be the result of any of the above-mentioned problems, from debris buildup to mechanical or electric issues. In any case, returning your air conditioning to optimal condition will require the intervention of an HVAC professional.
To address any of the above problems as they occur, it’s important to call a trusted HVAC technician. They should be certified by the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) organization and be able to provide plenty of references from satisfied customers. Companies like All Weather Heating & Cooling in Ohio are the best option for HVAC repair due to their exceptional qualifications and extensive experience. Contact a reputable company like them if you notice any of the warning signs mentioned above.
