How Can I Tell If My Air Conditioner is Broken?

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Air conditioners provide much-needed relief from the heat of the sun during the summer months. The soothing cool air rushing through the vents of your air conditioner helps you get a peaceful and well-rested sleep.

However, when your air conditioner causes unexpected trouble, you probably have to spend the night tossing, turning, and sweating away.

Hence, it is essential to keep your air conditioner well-maintained and check it regularly, even when it is not hot outside. It can also save you money by avoiding huge repair bills. In addition, several tell-tale signs tell you it’s time for routine maintenance.

Even if you need professional help with the system, it’s good to know when you need to seek the help of one. In this article, we will help you find out whether your air conditioner is broken.

Tell-Tale Signs That Your Air Conditioner Needs Help

Your air conditioner shows several warning signs that tell you it’s time to call a professional. You can troubleshoot some of these issues on your own, but it is best to get regular maintenance to avoid most of them. So let’s check out some of these signs.

Do You Hear Any Strange Sounds?

Usually, air conditioners do not make any noise other than the slight sound of the motor. However, there is some issue with the cooling system if you hear squealing, grinding, rattling, or other loud noises.

These noises could also indicate loose parts in the system. To determine the exact problem, you need to seek professional help who will resolve the issue by finding its source.

Your Air Conditioner Is Blowing Warm Air

If warm air is wafting out of your air conditioning vents, you should immediately check your thermostat. You should ensure that the temperature stays below the room temperature and that the cooling mode is turned on.

If you continue to get warm air, it means there is trouble with either the compressor or the refrigerant. In such situations, you should get professional help.

You Experience A Bad Odor Whenever You Turn On The Unit

Unpleasant, pungent smells coming out of your cooling system indicate trouble with your unit. Burnt wire insulation, mold formation, and gas leaks are some of the reasons for the unpleasant smells.

If you don’t get a timely remedy for the problem, it can affect the health of the people living in the house. Therefore, you should get a complete cleaning of the entire system to resolve the issue.

It’s Too Humid Indoors

Your air conditioner automatically adjusts the humidity levels inside the house, even during highly humid weather.

However, if you experience high humidity indoors, you must check your air conditioning unit as soon as possible. Improper cooling unit functioning is one of the main causes of the problem. A professional technician can help identify and resolve the issue.

Do You Notice Moisture Or Water Leaks Near The Unit?

Moisture and water leaks can occur due to a block in the drain tube or a refrigerant leak. As the air conditioner cools your house, it produces condensation. If it starts leaking, there is trouble with your cooling system, which is unable to function properly.

Moreover, leaving the leak unchecked might lead to mold formation and create more trouble. Hence, it is best to seek help at the earliest.

You Are Not Getting Enough Airflow

Your air conditioner is not functioning properly if you are getting insufficient airflow. A block in the ductwork, a broken motor, and a clogged air filter are some of the common reasons for poor airflow. There could be other more serious reasons behind the issue.

Getting your vents checked, removing debris from the outdoor unit, and cleaning out dirty coils can help resolve the issue. You should get a professional inspection to understand the problem and get the right solution.

You Have Expensive Bills

If you see an unusual rise in your electricity bills along with some of the troubles mentioned above, you should get your air conditioning system checked. Sometimes the cooling system is unable to function properly and provide sufficient cooling.

As a result, it will take more energy to do the job. It will be reflected in your utility bills, and you may get a higher bill than usual.

Opting for regular maintenance and calling a professional service provider like Air Pro Heating and Air & Electric at the right time can help you avoid the situation.

Ways To Maintain Your Air Conditioning Unit

You can avoid most of the issues with simple maintenance that you can do on your own. However, regular maintenance can keep a check on serious issues as well. Below are some of the ways you can maintain your air conditioning unit.

Keep Your Air Conditioning System Clean

Cleaning out air filters and coils can remove the dust and debris that accumulates over time. It can enhance the efficiency of your cooling system and also improve the air quality. Cleaning helps keep air conditioners in healthy condition for a longer time.

Straighten The Fins Of Your A/C

The condenser and evaporator of your A/C have fins that might get bent with use. The bend can prevent sufficient airflow and affect the entire system. Checking for bending in the fins and straightening them regularly can prevent such issues.

Get Your Condensate Drain Checked

A clogged condensate drain can block the draining of the liquids from the system. It can also become a breeding ground for microorganisms and lead to mold formation. You check the drain periodically and declutter it to keep the system in good condition.

Your A/C Needs A Regular Maintenance Check-Up

Regular maintenance by professional technicians can help keep your air conditioning system in good working order and make it last longer. In addition, they can identify issues, if there are any, and help with the cleaning process as well.

Final Words

If you see any trouble with your air conditioning unit, seek the help of a professional to understand the root of the problem and get the right solution. They have the knowledge and expertise to tackle any issue within the unit.