Three Signs It May Be Time for AC Replacement
As the weather grows hotter and the air conditioner sees more use, homeowners need to know the signs of a failing AC. Different signs can mean different things; not all indicate that the air conditioner is on its last legs. So, being able to tell the difference between minor and major signs is incredibly important for peace of mind and taking action if the signs indicate the need for air conditioner replacement. Read on to learn three major signs that the air conditioner needs to be replaced.
The Home Isn’t Cooling
Often, the most glaring signs are the ones that confuse homeowners the most. This is usually because there can be more than one reason for the air conditioner not cooling the house as it should. If the unit is on and the vents are blowing, but there’s no cold air coming through, it could mean something seriously wrong with the air conditioner. However, it could also mean several other things. Luckily, homeowners can check many of these things themselves.
The first place to start is with the air filter. If the filter hasn’t been changed, it could be overly clogged and blocking the airflow. If the problem persists after filter replacement, it’s time to move on to the thermostat to ensure everything is set correctly. If neither of these factors is to blame, it’s time to contact a professional HVAC technician to get to the root of the problem!
Energy Bills Are Increasing
Sometimes, the sign that an air conditioner is failing isn’t so clear. The unit could be working to cool the house, making the homeowners think nothing’s wrong — until they get their energy bill. A sudden spike in the electric bill that isn’t accounted for in other ways could indicate a struggling air conditioner. This is because AC units lose efficiency as they age. Components wear out or break down. And while some efficiency loss over the years is normal, a sudden spike in the electric bill could indicate a larger problem.
Homeowners who experience higher energy bills should contact a professional HVAC company to diagnose the problem. It could just be a faulty component, but sometimes, the entire unit needs replacing. Otherwise, the problems will continue, and the efficiency will continue to plummet.
Bad Smells and Odd Noises From the AC
Most homeowners have experienced a strange smell from their vents when the air conditioner comes on. Sometimes, this musty smell is fairly common after the air conditioner hasn’t been used for long. Other times, a foul smell can mean something very bad — especially if a strange noise accompanies it.
Any burning smell coming from the air conditioner vents is a cause for concern. But if it’s accompanied by a buzzing sound, it could indicate immediate danger. This could be a sign that there’s an electrical fault somewhere in the unit, so it’s best to shut the system off completely before calling an HVAC professional to investigate the issue. If the system needs replacing, an HVAC technician can help the homeowners easily and quickly!
About Chris Wilson Plumbing & Heating Repairs Inc
Chris Wilson Plumbing & Heating Repairs Inc has been serving Seaside, CA, with pride for over 35 years! It is a family-owned-and-operated business that provides 24/7 service and no-surprises pricing. Contact them today for AC replacement in Seaside, CA!
