Fix the AC or Replace It?
With rising temperatures and some of the hottest summers on record, having a functioning air conditioner is less of a luxury and more of a safety priority. Like any appliance, however, these systems are also most susceptible to wear and tear because of their high usage. A homeowner must know how to spot early detection signs of an air conditioner repair. While most people know that a system that won’t turn on indicates something is wrong, there are often more subtle signals that can help catch issues early and prevent the need for an AC replacement.
In this article, experts outline these symptoms and share some advice all homeowners can use to protect their homes.
Strange Sounds
An air conditioner is hardly the quietest appliance in the home. It often provides the consistent white noise of air flowing or a quiet mechanical hum that indicates the system is on. However, because it’s a mechanical appliance with internal moving parts, sounds can be a helpful tool to diagnose issues.
Some common sounds of trouble include:
- Screeching
- Grinding
- Banging
- Popping
- Wobbling
In most instances, these sounds indicate a loose component within the system. For example, a wobbling (or loud humming) could signal that the fan is loose or damaged. When coupled with the other issues outlined below, at the very least, it warrants a call to a local AC repair company.
Skyrocketing Energy Costs
Air conditioning is the highest energy consumer, particularly during the summer when it gets the most runtime. However, these costs can creep even higher if the system needs repair. Most homeowners will have a general idea of their energy costs. For example, a monthly utility can be $100, increasing to $150 in summer.
A sign that air conditioning repair is needed is when the bill skyrockets into the $300s. This often happens because the AC works harder to keep the home cool. Whether the issue stems from poor maintenance, mechanical failure, low refrigerant, or even ductwork concerns, these issues cause the system to run inefficiently.
While some, if not all, can be fixed with a simple repair or maintenance service, an AC replacement could be the better option when the unit is already old.
Poor Airflow
Are there certain rooms in the home that are the go-to for everyone to stay cool? It may be more comfortable to get better airflow or cooler conditions in a specific room of the house, but it could also signal something is wrong with the unit.
Fluctuating airflow generally stems from the ductwork or the air handler. Both are responsible for pumping cold air into the home. The air handler generally cools the air while the ductwork distributes it into the rooms. In either case, an inspection will be needed to help diagnose the problem.
However, fluctuating airflow could also indicate the need for an air conditioner replacement. It may not be an issue early on when the system is new, but with wear and tear and increasing demands, these installation issues can eventually show themselves. One solution is opting for a larger air conditioner that can cool more square footage, giving homeowners the cool temperatures they want where they need it most.
About Affordable Plumbing, Heating & Air
Affordable Plumbing, Heating & Air has served Fairhope, AL, homeowners since 1996. In that time, they’ve earned a reputation for upfront pricing, clean and professional technicians, and a dedication to customer satisfaction. Whether looking to service the AC before the summer or dealing with an emergency repair, their staff is here to help!
