Telltale Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Repair or Replacement

With summer on the horizon, most of us are looking forward to some warmer weather — especially after the harsh Chicago winter, a little sun is well deserved! However much we missed the heat we are certain most people prefer to have cooler homes in summer.

If you’re worried about your HVAC system or concerned your air conditioning may not make it through the summer, keep an eye out for these signs of potential AC troubles.

Signs Your Air Conditioner Is Going Out

It may seem like a no-brainer to tell if you’re AC isn’t working, but there are quite a few signals to let you know beforehand that problems may arise.

Weak Air Flow

If the airflow seems slow or weak, your compressor may be in trouble.

Or if some rooms are getting cold air while others are not, this is a more urgent sign of issues with your ducts. Over time things will naturally get caught in the vents, blocking airflow.

So whatever the problem may be, getting a professional opinion is definitely necessary.

Moisture Leakage

Have you noticed moisture around your AC system? It shouldn’t be there.

This can be caused by two possible issues: refrigerant leaks, which pose serious health risks, or a blocked or broken drain tube.

Odd Sounds

Any noise coming from your unit could mean a number of things.

For example, a squealing sound may be indicative of a metal component needing more lubrication. Whether it’s a banging, screeching, or grinding you hear, you should have a pro check it out immediately.

Weird Smells

Foul smells coming from your vents are definite indicators of a big problem. Musty smells are usually associated with mold and sour smells and can mean your wire insulation has burned out.

No Cool Air

Possibly the biggest sign of AC troubles is when the cold air stops flowing. If your unit is just blowing air, there could be a few potential issues, all of which call for a complete repair by a professional.

Humidity in the House

One of the AC’s jobs is to reduce humidity inside the home. If you notice your house is feeling more humid, that’s a sure sign of AC issues. Call a pro right away.

Spike in Electric Bill

A power bill that skyrockets without reason is indication of an AC needing repair. The source could come from many potential problems, but they all have the same solution: professional repair.

A few of these signs are quite obvious while others are more subtle. Whatever the case may be, knowing the warning signs will help you find the right professional help before serious trouble strikes.

HVAC systems are complex. And a lot of times the first idea is to take a look for yourself. But unless you’re trained, we recommend calling in a pro. Proper regular (every 6 months) maintenance and repair can extend the life of your AC and save you money in the long run!

If you’ve noticed any of these signs, don’t hesitate to call in a trained professional from our team at CBI. Book your appointment easily here with our online scheduling tool!