Autumn is arriving quickly and your air conditioning system has survived another season of heat. But just because it made it through this summer doesn’t promise it will keep cooling the next time temperatures rise. Here are common signals that your air conditioner may be on its last legs.
Not cooling your home
Your AC system is meant to keep you cool and comfortable on the hottest days, so if it’s not keeping your home cool (and you’re unable to get comfortable) there’s likely a problem. There are many situations where your AC might stop cooling – compressor failure, a wrong calibrated thermostat, or a refrigerant leak. Depending on the problem, it may be best to just let go of your little engine that could, and invest in a newer, more energy-efficient air conditioner – ideally one that keeps your home cool.
More Frequent Repairs
If you’re needing air conditioner repairs every year, it may be time to face facts and purchase a new one. Frequent air conditioning repairs are a good sign that your equipment is starting to breakdown and you don’t want to be caught in the middle of summer with a blistering hot home.
Rise in Energy Bills
If you see a jump in your energy bills that could be a signal that something is amiss. If your AC is working excessive overtime, it could cause you to work overtime to afford it, and it could be a better option for you to buy a more energy-efficient air conditioner that can easily lower your peak season cooling payments.
Decrease in Air Flow
If your air flow isn’t as powerful as it used to be, it could be a sign that your AC is on its way out. Inspect your home’s air filters to make sure they are not in need of replacing and, if not, call a technician to help discover the problem.
Constantly Starting Up
If your system is continuously running, especially if it’s not blowing much cool air, then you possibly have a problem. It could be something that’s easy to resolve with a seasonal tune-up, but it could also be an indicator that your system has to work harder to keep you cool and comfy and that results in wasted energy and wasted money.
Odd Noise
If your air conditioner starts making strange noises, there might be a problem. Higher pitched noises might mean trouble with one of the motors. Rattling noises might signal a part is loose. Don’t take any chances. Call a professional to inspect it and determine if it’s a complication worth repairing or if it will always be an ongoing issue.
Signs of Aging
As it is with everything (and everyone), the older something gets, the weaker it eventually gets. Is your air conditioner not cooling as efficiently as it did four to six years ago? Are certain rooms colder or hotter than others? Is it taking more time to get to a cool and comfortable temperature? These are all typical signs of an aging AC. If your AC is struggling and is approaching or over 10 years in age, call BW/Cook Service Experts and 574-218-6404 for a free in-home estimate and ask about our current discounts on energy-efficient systems.