While it may not get as warm in the Joliet area as it does in other parts of the country, it still can get really uncomfortable if you have an air conditioner in disrepair. This is why it’s so important to have annual maintenance done for your AC–it allows our technicians to comprehensively inspect, clean, and adjust the components that need it. All of this ensures that your cooling system operates as efficiently and effectively as possible, for as long as possible.
Maintenance even helps reduce repair needs by as much as 85%! This is because it lets us catch small, wear-and-tear issues before they have the opportunity to even grow into bigger emergency repair needs.
All this said, whether you had maintenance done in the past year or not, it’s important to be aware of the signs that your air conditioner needs repair. What are these signs? We’ve shared 6 below!
1. Short-Cycling
Short-cycling is the name given to the process where an air conditioner cycles on and off rapidly, never actually completing a full cooling cycle. This is both the symptom of a problem and can cause further issues such as increased wear and tear and even a system breakdown.
2. Unusual Noises
Nobody knows better than you and the rest of your household the day-to-day noises that your air conditioner makes. So if something sounds off, it’s time to give us a call. This can be anything from clanging, squealing, hissing, bubbling, or really anything you’ve never heard come from the unit before.
3. Warm Air
Have you noticed it’s taking longer for your air conditioner to actually cool your home down to the setting on your thermostat? Then when you go to inspect the vents, the air coming through them is actually lukewarm? Unless the compressor isn’t on at the moment, this is not normal!
It could be the sign of a refrigerant leak, which will eventually cause your system to break down.
4. Low Airflow
Perhaps the air coming through your vents is cool enough, but not quite as powerful as you’re used to. This can be caused by a breach in your ductwork or some other type of blockage. It could also be that the blower motor has failed.
5. Strange Smells
Have you been noticing an odd, musty odor coming either through your vents or even from the outside AC unit? This is a sign that something is amiss. It could be mold growth inside your ductwork, which needs to be addressed right away, or it could be that your condensate drain or condensate pan has a leak. Moisture and cooling systems don’t go well together, so be sure to give us a call right away if you notice this symptom!
6. High Energy Bills
“High energy bills” can be a pretty subjective sign that you need air conditioning repair. But what we really want you to look at is your energy bills compared to that of this same time last year.
If they are dramatically higher, then it’s a sign that something in your home is working inefficiently, and it could very well be your air conditioner. After all, your HVAC systems make up 50% of all the energy consumption in your home!
Contact our team today for all your Joliet, IL air conditioning needs. Comfort First Heating and Cooling, Inc., where we put your comfort first!