Hot weather makes your air conditioner work harder. However, it will only get worse if the system is already having trouble. Weak airflow, odd noises and higher energy bills mean something is wrong. If you ignore these signs, your AC might stop working when you need it most. When you notice the following signs, a quick tune-up from an expert air conditioning services company can make your system run more efficiently, keeping your home comfortable during summer.
1. Weak Airflow From Vents
When your air conditioner runs but barely pushes cool air through the vents, something isn’t working as it should. Weak airflow makes it harder to cool your home, forcing the system to run longer to reach the set temperature. That extra strain increases energy use and adds wear to the system.
One possible reason for weak airflow is a clogged air filter. An air filter catches dust and dirt before these particles get into the system, but air can’t pass through the filter easily when it gets too full. Changing the filter keeps the system from working too hard.
The blower motor could also be the problem. It can’t push air through the vents properly if it slows down or stops working. Dust on the fan blades can also make it less effective. A professional can check these parts and clean or repair them if needed.
Duct leaks also lead to weak airflow. When there are gaps in the ductwork, some of the cooled air escapes before reaching the vents. That makes the system work harder to cool the house, which raises energy costs. Sealing leaks in the ducts helps air reach its destination instead of being wasted.
2. Unusual Noises Coming From the System
Your air conditioner should run quietly. If you hear rattling, banging, hissing or buzzing, something might be wrong. These sounds usually mean a part is loose, worn out or blocked.
A rattling noise could be from a loose panel or a part inside the unit. Even a small loose screw can create vibrations that lead to an annoying sound. Ignoring it could lead to more damage if a part shifts out of place. Banging sounds can be a sign that a blower fan is off balance or that a compressor part is failing. If the noise happens when the system starts up or shuts down, it might be struggling to cycle properly.
A hissing noise often means there’s a refrigerant leak. The refrigerant moves through the system to absorb heat from your home, but when there’s a leak, the system cannot cool properly.
3. System Cycles on and off Frequently
An air conditioner should run long enough to cool the house, then shut off until more cooling is needed. If the system turns on and off in short bursts, it is short cycling. That issue wastes energy and puts extra strain on the unit.
A thermostat issue can cause short cycling. If the thermostat is in direct sunlight or near a heat source, it may detect the wrong temperature and tell the system to shut off too soon. Moving the thermostat to a better location can help.
Dirty coils can make the system turn on and off too often. The coils help move heat, but when they are covered in dirt, the AC has trouble working. Cleaning them helps the unit run better. Low refrigerant can also cause this problem. If there is not enough refrigerant, the system cannot cool properly and shuts off too soon.
4. Warm Air Coming From the Vents
If the air coming from the vents feels warm instead of cool, the system isn’t doing its job. That could mean low refrigerant, a failing compressor or a problem with the thermostat.
A refrigerant leak reduces the system’s ability to remove heat. If the refrigerant level is too low, the air conditioner cannot cool the air effectively. A technician can check for leaks and refill the refrigerant if needed.
The compressor moves refrigerant through the coils. If the compressor isn’t working, the air conditioner can’t cool properly. Repairs or replacement may be needed to restore cooling.
A thermostat not set correctly might be signaling the system to run the fan without cooling the air. Checking the settings and making sure the thermostat is in cooling mode can solve the problem.
5. Higher Energy Bills Without Explanation
A sudden increase in energy costs can mean the air conditioner is not running efficiently. If nothing has changed in how you use the system but the bills keep rising, there may be an issue that needs attention.
One possible reason is a clogged air filter. If air cannot flow easily, the AC must work harder to cool your home, which uses more electricity. Replacing the filter often helps it run better.
Another factor could be dirty coils. If dirt and dust buildup on the evaporator and condenser coils, they can’t transfer heat properly. That forces the system to run longer, increasing energy use. Duct leaks also lead to wasted energy. If cool air leaks out of the ducts, the AC must run longer to keep the house cool. Fixing the leaks helps save energy.
6. Humidity Levels Are Too High Indoors
An air conditioner does more than cool the air. It also removes humidity. If the house feels sticky, even when the system is running, it might not be dehumidifying properly. One reason could be a refrigerant issue. When refrigerant levels are low, the system can’t remove moisture as effectively. Checking for leaks and refilling the refrigerant can help fix the problem.
A system that’s too large for the house can also lead to humidity issues. If the air conditioner cools the space too quickly, it doesn’t run long enough to remove moisture. A professional can assess whether the system is the right size for the home.
7. Foul Odors Coming From the Vent
A musty smell emanating from the vents can mean mold is growing inside the system. Moisture buildup in the ductwork or on the coils creates the perfect environment for mold to grow. A burning smell might indicate an electrical issue. Worn-out wires or overheating parts can create a fire risk. Turning off the system and having it inspected is the best way to prevent damage. A rotten egg smell usually means there’s a gas leak. If this happens, turn off the system and contact a professional immediately.
8. Outdoor Unit Looks Dirty or Damaged
The outdoor condenser unit plays a big role in cooling the home. If it’s covered in dirt, leaves or debris, it can’t release heat properly. Cleaning around the unit and removing any blockages helps it function better. Bent fins on the condenser coil also affect performance. Straightening them allows for better airflow and improves efficiency.
Keeping the air conditioner in good shape before the summer heat arrives helps avoid problems when cooling is needed the most. Regular maintenance prevents breakdowns, improves efficiency and keeps energy costs under control. Recognizing the signs that an AC tune-up is needed helps keep the system running at its best.
Schedule Your Tune-up Today
At Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc., we offer full a custom-planned HVAC maintenance service to keep your HVAC system running its best. If you’re ready to get your AC checked before the heat hits, schedule a tune-up with us in Nashua, NH, today.
