The Top Signs Your AC Needs Repairs: Don’t Ignore These Red Flags This Spring

Are you having issues with your air conditioner? Determining whether you need an AC repair or a quick fix, like a new filter, isn’t always easy. Thankfully, we’re here to help with the finest services in the area!

Below, our expert technicians from Air-Master Heating & Air Conditioning discuss the top signs of a malfunctioning AC. If you notice any of these issues with your air conditioner, you should schedule repairs as soon as possible before the problem worsens. By learning more about these common signs of AC problems, you can prevent major, expensive outages while keeping your unit in tip-top shape for the upcoming season. 

How To Tell When You Need To Schedule an AC Repair

Just like cars, air conditioners usually show signs before they fail. Whether you’ve noticed unusual noises lately or your home simply doesn’t feel cool enough, something is likely up. Here are some of the most common red flags signifying that you need to schedule an AC repair as soon as possible:

Decreased Cooling Performance

One of the most noticeable signs that your AC needs repairs is a decrease in cooling performance. If you notice that your home isn’t as cool as it used to be or certain rooms are consistently warmer than others, you may have issues with your AC system. Here are some of the common indicators of reduced cooling performance:

• Insufficient airflow
• Warm air blowing from vents
• Warm spots
• Uneven cooling between rooms
• Thermostat problems

When your AC struggles to keep your home cool, not only will you have to deal with uncomfortable interior temperatures, but you’ll likely also notice increased energy bills and reduced air quality. Decreased cooling performance can result from refrigerant leaks, clogged air filters, compressor problems, and more, so you must address the issue before the unit suffers additional damage. 

Strange Noises or Odors

Unusual sounds or bad odors from your AC unit often indicate severe underlying problems. If you hear loud banging, grinding, squealing, or hissing, you may have issues with the fan motor, compressor, or various electrical components. Air conditioners should run relatively quietly, so call your HVAC technician if you notice loud operating sounds. 

Foul odors also indicate a range of concerning issues. For example, if you begin to notice musty or moldy smells, elevated moisture levels due to water leaks within the unit could create the perfect environment for mold to grow. On the other end of the spectrum, if you notice a burning smell, some of the components may be overheating and beginning to wear out, so you should replace them before they fail. 

Another possibility is a rotten smell, which could indicate that a dead animal is inside your AC unit. Small mammals like rodents are notorious for squeezing into tight places in their search for food, and AC units are no exception. Get this checked out as soon as possible to avoid a potential health hazard.

Frequent Cycling On and Off

If your AC unit frequently cycles on and off, it may have underlying issues that require attention. This phenomenon, known as short cycling, reduces energy efficiency and can lead to premature wear and tear if left unaddressed. Frequent cycles may be due to issues like refrigerant leaks, thermostat problems, or airflow restrictions. 

If you begin to notice your AC clicking on and off far more frequently than normal, you should call a professional as soon as possible. Without prompt repairs, the unit may quit, leaving you stuck in a hot home with a far more expensive repair bill on your hands. 

Visible Leaks or Moisture

If you notice water or refrigerant leaks around the AC unit or indoor air handler, your unit needs to be inspected by a professional. Water leaks could be caused by clogged drain lines, while refrigerant leaks pose health risks and can prevent your system from operating efficiently. Over time, small, unsuspecting leaks can even worsen to the point of causing water damage to nearby structures in your home while affecting indoor humidity and air quality by introducing mold risks.

If you notice any moisture building up around your unit, you must address the issue immediately. Even a few droplets of condensation could indicate major problems down the line that you can prevent by repairing the unit now. 

Increased Energy Bills

Your energy bills may fluctuate a bit from month to month, but if you notice a spike in costs or big increases over the last couple of months, something’s likely wrong. AC units should operate at maximum efficiency when all components work in unison. As soon as something begins malfunctioning, the AC must kick into overdrive to control your home’s temperature, which spikes energy usage, ultimately increasing utility costs.

Whether you have an aging unit or a new one, maintaining its delicate parts is vital in protecting the system’s longevity and efficiency. You don’t want to lose money on monthly costs for no reason. When you notice your bills going up along with the signs listed above, call your local technician to get to the bottom of it.  

Schedule Prompt Repairs Before Issues Worsen

Now that you know the top signs indicating the need for an AC repair, you can identify and resolve issues with your system before things escalate. By scheduling prompt repairs, you can enjoy the following benefits:

• Heightened interior comfort
• Increased system lifespan
• Reduced energy costs
• Reduced future repair needs
• Improved cost savings down the line

Call Air-Master Heating & Air Conditioning Today

If you notice any of the signs listed above, we’re here to help. At Air-Master Heating & Air Conditioning, we specialize in prompt, reliable AC repairs in Bedford, Indiana, with emergency services and financing options available. Whether you’ve noticed decreased cooling performance, high humidity, rising energy bills, or unusual noises, you’ve come to the right place.

Call Air-Master Heating & Air Conditioning today at (812) 279-0509 to schedule your AC repair.