When to Replace or Repair an AC Unit
If little to no air is coming from the unit, it's time to seek heating and cooling repair work.
When an AC unit breaks or experiences issues, swift repair is necessary to keep the home comfortable during the hot summer. However, repairing or replacing an air conditioning system is a steep investment for most households, so homeowners should feel confident when scheduling a technician is necessary. Keep the following tips in mind to be confident about when an AC unit needs professional attention.
Insufficient airflow
If little to no air is coming from the unit, it's time to seek heating and cooling repair work. This is usually a fixable concern and may be resolved by repairing the compressor or the ducts on the device.
Unpleasant odor
If a stuffy smell starts coming from an AC unit, it's likely due to mold collected within the unit from the moisture within the system. However, this issue is quickly dealt with by a technician. Mold is hazardous to the health of those in the home, so do not delay resolving this issue.
The AC unit blows warm air
If an AC unit produces warm air, it's time to call a heating and cooling service technician. This type of issue indicates an issue with the AC's compressor but might imply that the unit does not have enough cooling agents to keep the household cool.
Strange sounds coming from the AC unit
Listen for any unusual clanking, knocking, or scraping noises from the AC unit. These sounds could indicate that the fan belt is impeded in some way or that there's even an electrical issue. It is recommended to shut off the AC unit until a repairman can attend to it.
The household is damp
The AC unit should lessen humidity levels in the residence, as a humid house poses a danger to residents. If the house is still humid despite running the AC, schedule an appointment with a technician as soon as possible, as humidity can lead to mold, harming residents' health.
The thermostat is malfunctioning
If an air conditioning system cycles routinely or randomly shuts down, the thermostat is likely at fault. Contact an AC repair specialist to inspect the device and make necessary repairs or upgrade it for a new one entirely.
Increasing power bill
An increasing power bill may suggest an AC unit works harder than normal. Contact an AC repair expert as soon as possible, as the unit is likely already damaged and could soon break beyond repair.
Moisture collecting around the AC unit
While small amounts of moisture aren't a problem, a large amount or an odd color forming around the air conditioning unit must be addressed. These symptoms may indicate that the cooler inside of the unit is leaking.
When to expect a replacement
Sometimes, AC units have issues that are beyond repair and require total replacement. If the unit is over ten years old, still uses R 22 Freon, or requires recurring repair work, know that a replacement is likely needed.
Air conditioning units are complicated yet essential machines, especially for residencies in hot climates. Stay aware of these signs that an AC unit needs to be replaced or repaired, as the longer a unit is left damaged, the more severe the consequences can become.
Just in Case Mechanical offers residential and commercial plumbing, sewer, water softener, electrical, lighting, and HVAC services Lancaster County. Call us today at (717)696-1511.
