Imagine your AC unit going out on the hottest day of the year. You’d probably be quite upset.
However, AC units rarely just quit working out of nowhere. There are usually warning signs that something isn’t right. Homeowners may not notice them or may ignore them, hoping they’ll go away.
But if you want to avoid a super hot catastrophe, you should heed these signs that you need AC repairs.
1. Your AC Unit Is Short-Cycling
AC units sometimes suffer from this odd problem. They turn on, run for a few minutes, and then turn off again before they’ve had a chance to sufficiently cool the home. The thermostat knows the home isn’t cool yet, so it signals the unit to turn on again a short time later.
During this time, your home never gets fully cooled. Plus, this rapid on and off is bad for your unit, causing it to wear out faster or need other repairs sooner. Don’t wait to call for AC repair in Orinda CA if you notice this problem!
2. The Air Coming Out of Your Unit Isn’t Cold
This one is surprisingly easy to miss. Your AC unit may be running, but the air that comes out of it isn’t as cold as it should be.
Some homeowners don’t notice because the unit seems to be running as usual at regular intervals. Of course, the home doesn’t get as cool as it should, but it’s easy to chalk it up to unusually hot weather.
If you suspect this problem, check the air coming directly out of your unit to feel if it is as cool as it should be.
3. Your AC Unit Is Noisy
AC units aren’t silent, but they shouldn’t sound like a high school marching band either!
If you notice banging, clanging, rattling, screeching, or hissing when your unit is on, it’s a good idea to have it checked. Basically, any sounds other than the gentle hum of machinery or the swoosh of air circulating about your home should catch your attention.
4. Your Energy Bills Are Unusually High
This is another one that is sometimes hard to notice. Energy bills change by small amounts anyway and it seems like the price is always going up for one reason or another.
However, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your bill. How much energy do you normally use? Does it seem like you’re using more even though there isn’t a major heatwave going on?
Poorly functioning units will use up more energy because they have to work harder to cool your home. If the problem is ignored, the unit will eventually wear out faster or require more obvious repairs sooner because it’s working so hard.
Give Your AC the TLC It Needs
Your AC unit works hard for you. If you’re noticing any of these issues popping up with your AC unit, contact us today. Giving your AC a little love will go a long way towards making sure it takes good care of you!
Hometown Heating and Air Conditioning is your trusted resource for air conditioning services. Reach out to us today!