When the summer heats up, it’s important that you can count on your air conditioning keeping you cool, not only for comfort, but for safety as well. However, if you’re noticing signs that your AC is struggling and you’re wondering if you need the services of an AC repair company in Lilburn, GA, there are some signs you can watch for that indicate the need for repairs or a new AC. Here are some things to watch for.
Hot Air
The most obvious sign that your AC has stopped working and needs either major repair or replacement is when it stops blowing cold air or blows what feels like hot air. In truth, the AC generally won’t suddenly start blowing air that’s hotter than room temperature, but when you’re accustomed to cold air coming from the vents, the room temperature air will seem far warmer than that.
There are many reasons your AC could stop blowing cool air, and in some cases the repair could be simple and inexpensive. Unfortunately, in many cases, the culprit is a much larger problem like a failing compressor that would be better remedied by replacing your entire AC unit. It’s important to note that turning the thermostat down won’t help fix the problem.
High Humidity
Along with the air being a higher temperature, you’ll often notice that the air feels more humid when your AC is on its last legs. This is because the AC literally cools your home by removing moisture from the air. The drier the air is, the cooler it will feel as well. The right humidity level is important not only for keeping you comfortable temperature-wise, but it’s important for health as well. High humidity levels can damage your belongings like furniture and decorations, but it can also provide a breeding ground for mold, so if you’re having humidity problems, you need to call an HVAC company right away.
Higher Power Bills
It’s normal for power bills to be higher during the summer than during other seasons of the year, especially if you have a gas furnace. However, it’s important to closely monitor the normal amount of energy you use during the summer compared to the average temperatures. If your bill seems larger this summer than previous summers, despite having similar temperatures, or if you see a sudden spike from one month to the next, the problem could be your AC.
Even though your AC may seem to be keeping your house cool, a higher energy bill often means that the AC is malfunctioning and causing it to run less efficiently. The AC may be able to keep your house at the appropriate temperature, but it’s working harder than it should to maintain that temperature, which may indicate the need for major repairs or replacement.
Loud Sounds
Loud sounds are always an indication that you need some type of repair, but depending on the necessary repair, it may mean that you need a new unit. These sounds may be grinding, banging, squealing, or chattering sounds. You may need a new fan or belt, or the compressor may be failing.
Low Airflow
Low or weak airflow could be another warning sign that you need repair or new AC installation in Lilburn, GA. There could be something blocking your ducts or it could be a bigger problem with the compressor. If you notice any of these indications, be sure to call Triad Mechanical right away to get the problems diagnosed and taken care of.