Your air conditioner does not just break down all of the sudden, without warning. In fact, in most cases, your AC system gives you quite a few warning signs that indicate something is wrong and needs addressing before a major breakdown occurs. Recognizing what these signs of air conditioner problems look like is important if you want to call in HVAC experts to help you with your appliance.
In this article, we share a few signs of air conditioner problems, which you can look out for. If you notice them, give us a call at Galmiche & Sons. We are a reputed HVAC company located in St. Louis, and we have years of experience repairing air conditioners of all brands and models. We can also install air conditioners for your residence or commercial needs. Contact us online or by phone at 314-993-1110 for more information.
Four Signs of Air Conditioner Problems You Need to Look Out for
1. Fluctuating Temperature and Humidity
If your air conditioner is in the right working condition, it should ideally maintain the temperature you set the AC at. However, if there is any problem with your AC, you may notice that the temperature starts to fluctuate. Your air conditioner may create hot spots and cold spots as well.
Sometimes the temperature fluctuates because of a thermostat issue. Other times it is due to the air vents being blocked by debris. In some cases, it may be because of the position where the AC is installed, which makes the hot and cold spots worse due to the weather outside. All of these issues should be addressed by professionals.
Similarly, if the temperature remains constant, but you begin to feel humid, that is another one of the signs of air conditioner problems. The humidity indicates that the evaporator coils of your AC are not working as they should and may need repair or replacement.
2. Slow Airflow
Airflow from your AC may become slower when the air vents or filters are clogged up. The AC system gets the air from inside your house, filters it, cools it, and sends it back throughout your house. During this process of filtration, a lot of debris and dirt can accumulate in the air vents and air filters. If these aren’t regularly cleaned, it can cause problems with airflow. In very serious cases, a clogged AC filter can become an electrical and fire hazard.
You should ideally clean the AC vents and filters once a month, or call in a professional to replace the filters once every 60-90 days.
3. Higher (than Usual) Electricity Bills
When your air conditioner is malfunctioning, it will need to use more electricity to cool your home. Your air conditioner may also need to use more electricity to cool your home if there are hot spots and cold spots in different places.
You should be able to identify that something is amiss when your electricity bill is higher than the preceding months. When this happens, you should get an expert consultation to determine if the time has come to replace your AC system or not. At Galmiche & Sons, we are certified dealers and installers of Goodman and Lennox AC systems, both of which have high SEER ratings and are perfect for residential and commercial use.
4. Sudden Sounds
If you air conditioner suddenly starts making noises, then it is a cause for concern as many noises can be signs of air conditioner problems. The type of sound you hear your AC make can indicate what exactly is wrong. For example:
- Clicking – This sound indicates that something may be clogged inside your AC, and deep cleaning can solve the issue some times.
- Loud banging – If you hear a banding noise, it is probably a component that has come loose and needs to be tightened.
- Sharp squealing – These squealing noises often indicated that your AC probably needs more lubrication to run the motor belt noiselessly, or perhaps the motor belt is worn and needs replacement.
- Severe rattling (with the AC actually shaking) – This is often a sign that your air conditioner is very old and worn out. It is best to contact us at Galmiche & Sons to inspect your AC system and suggest the next steps.
Contact Galmiche & Sons for Help with Your Air Conditioner Problems
If you are experiencing any of these signs of air conditioner problems or suspect any other AC issues, it is best to call your trusted HVAC professionals before it is too late. Some minor issues can be resolved quickly before they progress into larger concerns. To schedule an appointment for HVAC service and repair in St. Louis, contact Galmiche & Sons online or by phone today.
