Many AC systems have a long lifespan, and regular maintenance can help them stay in tip-top shape longer. But inevitable breakdowns are bound to happen, and it’s something homeowners should be prepared for. Repairing or replacing your AC is never on the list of things you want to do. But if you see any of these five warning signs, it’s time to bring in the professionals.
At Bloomington Heating & Air, our HVAC technicians are here to help. We deliver high-quality, efficient air conditioning and heating services that keep you and your family comfortable.
If you notice any of these warning signs, schedule AC service right away.
Strange Noises
It’s never a good sign to hear strange noises coming from your AC unit. Droning and whirring noises from your home’s outdoor unit indicate significant compressor problems. Grinding and screeching noises from the indoor air handler or outdoor unit are clear signs of a failing blower motor. If the AC system won’t turn on and makes a rapid clicking noise, electrical problems are the most likely culprit. Rattling, clamoring, whooshing, and banging noises from the air vents are usually caused by ductwork design problems and can affect your AC system.
Constant Repairs
If you feel like you’re continually calling your local HVAC company to make repairs, chances are you have a dying AC system on your hands. The cost of constant repairs adds up. You’ll want to compare the cost of your repairs and the cost of a new unit. If you feel like you would save money in the long run by replacing the AC unit (and factoring in the savings you’d get from a new, energy-efficient system), then you should begin pricing out a replacement. Contact us for more information about our different cooling systems.
Old AC Unit
Typical air conditioning systems can last 15–20 years. Some degree of wear and tear is normal, but around year 10, homeowners should begin to keep an eye on their unit for signs that indicate the end of its life. However, just because it reaches that time frame, that does not mean it automatically needs to be replaced. If your energy bills are still where they should be, and there are no leaks in the system, there’s no need to worry about replacing it.
High Energy Bills
If you’ve noticed your energy costs steadily increasing, that’s a definite sign of a dying AC unit that’s working too hard. In the past several years, many improvements have been made to newer units, including a new standard for their seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating so that a new system will bring your energy consumption down to a much more reasonable level. The size of your unit should be taken into account as well. Contact us to learn more about which unit is right for your home.
AC Runs All The Time
One of the biggest issues with most dying AC units is that they run around the clock. This can happen due to the system being dirty or low on Freon. If a contactor sticks, the unit will freeze up due to the indoor blower shutting off when the thermostat reaches the desired temperature, and the outdoor unit continues to run. While it may seem like little more than a nuisance, when the unit is unable to turn itself off, the motor burns out far too quickly and leads to an early demise.