In Texas, just about every home is air-conditioned. Without climate control, the blazing hot summer months would be unbearable. This is a simple fact of life that most homeowners don’t fully grasp until their air conditioners begin to malfunction.
Catching AC problems early is the best way to keep these vital home support systems running, which is why most experts recommend annual tune-ups and inspections. Even if homeowners haven’t had their AC units inspected, they can still keep an eye out for these eight signs that an air conditioner needs repairs.
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Table of Contents
Strange Noises
It’s never a good sign when home appliances start producing unusual sounds, and air conditioners are no exception. There should be no noises coming from the central AC unit and the ducts except a steady hum. If homeowners hear banging, clicking, or squealing sounds, those are signs it’s time to call AC TEX and schedule repairs.
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Pooling Water
There are two issues that can cause water to pool beneath an AC unit. Either there’s a leak somewhere in the system or ice is forming inside the air conditioner. These issues can generally be traced back to refrigerant or condensate lines. Don’t put off calling a technician, because while the repairs should be easy and affordable right after the leak or ice forms, the problem can cause significant damage over time.
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Poor Airflow
Poor airflow can be a sign that the AC unit needs compressor repairs, but more often than not, there are simpler problems to blame. The build-up of debris in ductwork or filters is the primary culprit. While most homeowners can change filters without any help, it’s always best to hire an HVAC technician for duct cleaning.
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Unpleasant Odors
Foul smells emanating from the vents or the AC unit itself can be traced back to mold or mildew. Technically, these problems require professional cleaning, not repairs. However, there are some situations where the mold and mildew are building up because of leaks or other underlying issues, so it’s still wise to have the AC unit inspected.
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Constant Cycling
Constant cycling can occur when air conditioners lose efficiency or when thermostats malfunction. If it’s a newer AC that’s hooked up correctly and hasn’t sustained any damage, it may also be incorrectly sized. At that point, AC replacement is the better option.
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High Energy Bills
It’s normal for a family’s energy bills to go up in the summer when the AC is on all the time. It’s not normal for those bills to suddenly skyrocket. It’s usually a sign that there’s something wrong with the air conditioner.
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Insufficient Cooling
When homeowners turn their thermostats down, the home should get noticeably more relaxed. If it doesn’t, there could be underlying issues to blame.
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AC Won’t Turn On
The most obvious sign it’s time to call an AC repair technician is an air conditioner that fails to turn on. It’s best not to let the situation get to this point, though. Calling an HVAC company when early warning signs occur is a great way to avoid having to suffer in the sweltering heat while waiting on an AC technician.
Don’t Be Afraid to Call a Professional
Have a problem that didn’t make the list? Don’t be afraid to call a professional to schedule an inspection. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
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