When Is Air Conditioning Repair or Replacement Necessary?
A typical AC unit lasts around 10 to 20 years, depending on many factors, including the type of AC it is, how well it’s maintained, and how often it’s used. Once it reaches old age, the air conditioner is no longer as efficient and may take longer to cool the entire home.
A broken AC is not only inconvenient in the summer but costly. Since many air conditioning systems continue to blow cool air even when damaged, specific warning signs can help homeowners identify a problem with their AC, alerting them to get help.
Uneven Cooling
If an AC system struggles to cool the entire home, leading to the house not getting cool enough or inconsistent temperatures in different rooms, many issues can be the cause. It could be a simple fix and the result of clogged or dirty air filters. But if homeowners have already replaced their air filters and still experience warmer temperatures or cooling issues, the AC will need professional repair, maintenance, or replacement services.
Refrigerant leaks can be a common issue with older systems. Refrigerant is a chemical that helps produce cold air by absorbing heat once converted from a gas to a liquid. A crack or hole in the AC coils can cause refrigerant to leak and the home to experience issues getting cool. Repair services are usually able to fix the problem so that AC replacement is not necessary. HVAC contractors can inspect the air conditioning system to determine the cause of the uneven cooling and the best way to fix it.
High Electric Bills
A sudden increase in energy bills is another sign of AC problems. If an air conditioner uses more energy than it once did to cool the home, it can be tracked by monitoring monthly energy bills. As AC units age, they can become less energy efficient and cost more to run, and a lack of maintenance can also cause energy bills to rise.
However, if the cooling costs spike over a short period and not gradually over time, the issue could be a malfunctioning or broken component inside the air conditioner. As summer temperatures rise, the air conditioner also needs more energy to keep the home cool. Bills may gradually increase over the summer months, but keeping an eye on each electric bill will help homeowners spot AC issues.
Strange Smells and Unexplained Noises
More signs of AC trouble are unusual sounds and smells. A leak in the refrigerant line can cause the home to smell like an exhaust pipe and lead to bubbling or hissing sounds. The odor is typically stronger at ground level and can give off a slightly sweet scent, and the sound is typically heard from the outdoor AC unit. These leaks are dangerous and should only be fixed by a professional. A burning smell is an urgent issue that could indicate the unit is overheating or experiencing electrical problems.
The musty smell of moldy air can indicate an accumulation of water and mold growing in or around the AC unit or ducts. Critters could cause other foul smells. Birds and mice like to nest inside the ductwork because it’s warm in winter. By summer, these animal smells can be much stronger, and the scent is often dispersed along with the cool air.
A high-pitched noise usually means the fan’s motor is malfunctioning. This happens when the belt between the motor and the blower is dislodged. Grinding sounds may indicate the AC’s motor may need to be replaced. If there is a rattling or buzzing noise from the air conditioner, parts may have become loose or broken and are rattling inside the unit. If homeowners experience any of these symptoms of AC problems, they should call a professional who can inspect the system to find the cause and fix it.
About Priced Right Heating & Cooling
Priced Right Heating & Cooling is a veteran-owned business serving Lenexa, KS, and the surrounding communities. They provide honest pricing, quick turnarounds, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for air conditioner repair and maintenance services in Lenexa, KS.
