6 Signs of Air Conditioner Failure
Connecticut is well-known for extreme weather changes. In winter, the grounds are often blanketed in snow and temperatures can drop below freezing. In the summertime, it’s not unusual for temperatures to soar well into the 90s.
As such, finding out your air conditioner is on its last legs could mean you’ll have to contend with sweltering heat and humid conditions until the system gets replaced.
To avoid being caught off guard and having to rely on fans for air circulation, look out for these warning signs.
1. Low Airflow
Despite being on the highest setting, does the air coming through your A/C unit feel weak or light? This could indicate an issue with the compressor.
A crucial part for outdoor units, the compressor helps refrigerant circulate through the system to remove heat. A poorly performing compressor interrupts this cycle, preventing heat from being fully removed from your home and decreasing the amount of cool air coming from the unit.
When you notice low or poor airflow, clean the filters and vents. If the airflow does not change, it could be a duct problem. The compressor is likely about to fail and will need to be replaced.
2. Warm Air
If airflow seems normal but the air coming out doesn’t feel cool, this can signal an issue with the thermostat. Resetting the thermostat may resolve the issue or you may find an external source, like a window, is causing a faulty reading.
However, if the thermostat is set correctly and the air temperature doesn’t seem to be changing, there may be an issue with the refrigerant line. The chemical may be leaking out and decreasing the amount of fluid the unit has to cool your home.
3. Strange Sounds and Smells
Do you notice a distinct odor when the air conditioner is turned on? When it’s accompanied by a grinding or banging sound, these signs point to two possible scenarios. An unpleasant odor can indicate moisture is causing mold to grow inside your unit. A grinding sound could mean a part, like a belt, has come loose and is rubbing against something else.
4. Seeing Moisture or a Leak
Noticing a leak from the air conditioner can signify a serious problem, often with the refrigerant or condensate leaking out. These leaks may be accompanied by frozen coils, higher electric bills, warm air coming through the vents or more time needed to cool a space.
Aside from a refrigerant line leak, the drain line or condensate pan may be malfunctioning. When this line gets clogged, water may pool around the indoor unit.
5. The Condenser Won’t Turn On
When this occurs, it may seem like your outdoor air conditioning unit is not receiving any power. You may want to adjust the thermostat to see if the unit turns on, then check the power. If neither have an effect, the compressor may have stopped working and will need to be repaired or replaced.
6. Increased Electric Bill
When your electric bill starts to increase but your home does not feel cooler, your air conditioner has become less efficient. At this stage, the full system may need to be addressed for leaks, broken down parts, duct and insulation issues.
If the air conditioning in your home is not performing up to par, don’t wait to schedule service. The HVAC professionals at MJ Fahy & Sons can assess the system and recommend any necessary repairs. To learn more about our services, contact us today.
