3 Signs That Your AC Needs a Service Visit
Regular HVAC servicing is essential for your AC system to function correctly. Homeowners in Somerset aiming to keep their families cool this summer should rely on local HVAC technicians to diagnose and address any potential problems with their AC units.
Experienced HVAC technicians are properly equipped to identify common HVAC issues like ineffective cooling, strange smells, or clogged filters that can affect the performance of your AC. Their thorough inspections, cleaning, and maintenance procedures help optimize the efficiency and lifespan of your system. Here are three signs to look for when determining when to have your unit serviced.
1. The AC Isn’t Cold Enough
When an air conditioning system fails to provide adequate cooling, it can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. There are several potential causes for insufficient cooling in an AC system that may require attention from a professional HVAC technician. Insufficient cooling is often tied to refrigerant leaks. Refrigerant is responsible for absorbing heat from the indoor air and transferring it outside. If there is a leak in your AC’s refrigerant lines, it won’t be able to remove heat effectively, resulting in reduced cooling capacity. A trained technician can locate and repair the leak, ensuring the proper amount of refrigerant is circulating.
A malfunctioning compressor is another possible cause of challenges with cool airflow. The HVAC compressor is a heat pump responsible for circulating the refrigerant. If this part of your AC system isn’t working, the air won’t be as cool as it should be. A skilled technician can diagnose compressor problems and make the necessary AC repairs or replacements.
Additionally, if you find that your HVAC system isn’t adequately cooling your home, you may need a larger system. An AC system that is too small to properly keep your house at an optimal temperature will result in insufficient cooling. Work with an HVAC professional to assess the size of your current system and recommend appropriate adjustments to better cool your home.
2. Your AC System Has a Foul Odor
In your search for cooler air, you may encounter strange smells coming out of your AC. If your AC is spouting foul odors, this often indicates an underlying problem that needs professional attention. Several factors can contribute to AC systems emitting unpleasant odors.
A common cause of HVAC-related odors is mold or mildew growth within the ductwork of the AC system. Moisture, dust, and debris can accumulate in the system, creating an environment for mold to thrive. Additionally, if stagnant water collects in the drip pan or a clogged condensate drain, this can cause odors.
Another potential cause of foul odors is a dirty or clogged air filter. When the filter becomes contaminated with dirt, dust, and debris, it can emit unpleasant smells as the air passes through it. The accumulation of pet dander, cooking odors, or similar pollutants within the AC system can also result in foul smells circulating through the vents.
HVAC technicians can help improve your air quality by thoroughly cleaning the system with a focus on the evaporator coils, ductwork, and drain pans. This professional cleaning will effectively eliminate mold, mildew, and similar contaminants. You can also replace or clean the air filters to improve indoor air quality and eliminate additional odors.
3. Your Energy Bills Are Too High
High energy bills are another clear sign that it is time to service your system. A malfunctioning AC system will directly impact your monthly budget as well as indicate potential inefficiencies in your heating and cooling system. A common cause of high energy bills is inadequate insulation. Poorly insulated homes allow heat to enter during hot weather and escape during colder months, causing your HVAC system to compensate by working harder to maintain comfortable temperatures.
Additionally, worn-out or faulty components, such as malfunctioning thermostats, leaking ducts, or old compressors, can also contribute to increased energy usage. Regular maintenance and timely repairs by HVAC professionals can identify and address these issues, optimizing the system’s efficiency and reducing energy consumption.
Contact Us
With regularly scheduled maintenance checks, you can improve your HVAC unit’s efficiency. Our team of expert HVAC technicians is ready to meet all your AC-related needs in Somerset and surrounding areas. We also offer plumbing and indoor air quality solutions. Financing and maintenance plans are also available. Contact Jeffries Heating & Air + Plumbing for more information.
