Is It Time To Replace Your Air Conditioner?
Summer is here, which means that the days are getting hotter. Air conditioners are essential for beating the heat. Unfortunately, not all AC systems will function like they are supposed to. Some might perform in a way that will irritate the owners. If this is your situation, you may need to repair your AC unit or even replace it, depending on how bad the problem is. Time is of the essence when it comes to fixing the problem. Usually, it is easier to fix an air conditioner problem when it first starts happening. However, there are telltale signs that indicate that you have reached the end of your air conditioner life expectancy. An experienced HVAC technician can assess the issue and offer practical solutions.
Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs An Upgrade
These are a few examples of what might be wrong with your AC unit:
Your AC Does Not Blow Cool Air
An air conditioning unit should be able to emit cool air into your space. If the air coming out is warm, there could be a few issues going on. Firstly, you should check to make sure that the thermostat is working properly and that the unit is in cooling mode. Try changing the settings to see if the unit responds to the changes. If you set the temperature lower, your unit should start producing cooler air. If that doesn’t work, have a look at the air filter to see how clean it is. If the problem still persists, a technician can help you identify whether the compressor is the problem.
High Electricity Bill
Air conditioners tend to use up a large amount of energy, so your utility bills will probably be higher this time of year. However, if you see a sudden spike in costs, it may be time to investigate. Unless the utility company has raised the rates, your AC unit may be working inefficiently. There could be something preventing it from functioning normally. The problem could be forcing the unit to work harder, which will eat up more energy. Some common issues could be obstructed HVAC filters and AC refrigerant leaks. If the coolant is leaking, you should call in a professional.
Excessive Air Conditioner Repairs
A good air conditioner should be dependable. It is rare that an AC unit has issues or stops working, especially in the beginning. Problems usually start happening much later, around 10 years or so, because of natural wear and tear on the machine. Once the problems start, they usually accumulate. Constant repairs can be very costly, so it may be in your best interest to replace the unit entirely. A reputable HVAC professional can assess the situation and help you decide what is best for you.
Low Air Conditioner Airflow
If your air conditioner is not emitting the normal amount of air, it may be a sign that something is not working efficiently. There are a few issues that might be causing poor airflow. Some include a clogged HVAC air filter or a broken-down motor. These problems will need to be fixed as soon as possible to allow the unit to function properly. One way to increase your unit’s efficiency is to use zoning systems.
Increase In AC Cycles
When an air conditioner is functioning properly, it will cycle fairly consistently. If you notice that your AC unit is cycling more than usual, it could be a sign that there is a problem with the machine. Often this can be solved with a professional tune-up. However, if you notice that your air conditioner has been making many cycles right from the start, then the system may be oversized, which would require a replacement. A trained HVAC professional can assess your home to see what AC unit size will work best for that particular area.
Increased Humidity
Air conditioners not only cool the air, but they also help control the humidity. This is why it feels so good to step into an air-conditioned room after you have spent time outside in the heat. However, if you step into a room where the AC is not properly decreasing humidity, you will probably feel clammy and uncomfortable. If this is the case, you might want to call in a professional HVAC specialist to repair and recalibrate the machine. Another option is to install a whole-house dehumidifier to bring the humidity levels down. Your HVAC technician can help you make an informed decision.
Your Air Conditioner Leaks Water
An air conditioner decreases humidity by bringing the temperature of the air down around the coils so that condensation happens. This liquid collects in a container and is pushed out of the system to create cool air. If there is a problem within this system, the condensation may leak out of the unit. This could eventually cause problems to your walls or floors. An HVAC specialist can make the necessary repairs to prevent this from happening.
Your AC Unit Produces Unpleasant Odors
When moisture builds up inside the A/C unit, it can result in bacteria and pathogens growing. If this is not addressed, you might notice that the AC unit is emitting unpleasant odors. This can affect the comfort levels in your house and be offensive for you and your guests. The problem needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. Otherwise, it will get worse. An AC technician can tune-up the machine and give it a thorough cleaning along with the ducts throughout the house. Another solution could be to install UV lamps.
Strange Air Conditioning Sounds
Most AC units produce a low hum, but loud noises that come on suddenly are out of the ordinary and could signify a problem. If you hear rattling noises, it could mean that there are loose parts in the machine. A grinding noise could be a sign of a broken compressor. A technician can assess the problem to find the proper solution. At the very least, the unit probably requires a tune-up.
Most problems with air conditioners require the skills of a licensed technician. It is always best to call a professional to make sure you are properly maintaining your AC unit. A specialist will know whether the cooling system problems can be fixed or if it makes more economic sense to replace the unit entirely.
Call Tower Energy For All Your Air Conditioning Needs
Tower Energy offers premium HVAC services in Hartford County and the surrounding areas in Connecticut. We hire NATE certified experts who are knowledgeable and skilled in doing tune-ups, repairing HVAC systems, installing units, and replacing heating and cooling systems. We perform all of our services properly and efficiently.
Tower Energy offers very competitive rates for heating and cooling services in the area. Our expert maintenance services can increase your comfort levels, improve energy usage, and decrease the costs related to home cooling. Whether you need repairs or a replacement, we will assess your situation and recommend the right option while working with your budget. Call Tower Energy today for a free in-home estimate or to schedule a service appointment.
Contact us now or call us at (860) 677-7347 to find out more.