Anyone who has spent a summer in Charleston, SC, knows how hot it can get. The temperature during the summer can reach 88 degrees and higher. Also, the humidity during the summer can make it feel a lot hotter than it actually is. Because the summers are so hot, you rely greatly on your home’s air conditioning system. The last thing you want is to experience a complete breakdown during the hottest time of the year. The best way to keep this from happening is to be able to recognize the signs that you need AC repair. If you recognize the signs early, a minor issue can be repaired before it becomes a major one.
#1 Warm Air Coming From the Vents
The most obvious sign that there is an issue with your air conditioner is if warm air is coming from the vents. Before you call for a repair, you should first check the thermostat. Make sure that the thermostat is set to the cooling mode. Also, you want to make sure that the temperature in the house is warmer than the setting on the thermostat. If it isn’t, the system won’t kick on until you adjust the thermostat.
If everything checks out with the thermostat, it is time to call a professional in AC repair. There could be a problem with the compressor, or the system could be running low on the refrigerant. You will need the knowledge and experience of an HVAC tech to determine the source of the problem so that it can be repaired. The sooner you schedule an appointment for a repair, the sooner your home will be cool again.
#2 Poor Airflow Coming From the Vents
If the airflow coming from the vents in your home is poor, it will be challenging for your home to reach the desired temperature. A few issues could be causing poor airflow, and you should have your system checked out by a professional in repair.
The problem could be a broken fan. If the fan isn’t working properly, adequate air won’t make it through the air ducts. The problem could also be with the air ducts themselves. When dirt, dust, and other debris build up inside the air ducts, it can obstruct the air coming from the vents. There could also be a crack or leak in the air ducts. When this happens, a large portion of the cold air will escape from the leak, resulting in poor airflow.
If you don’t have the problem repaired, your system will need to work harder to reach the desired temperature. This will result in higher energy costs, and it can shorten your air conditioning system’s lifespan.
#3 Strange Odors When the System Is Running
When you turn on your air conditioner for the first time during the cooling season, it isn’t uncommon for there to be a dusty smell. When the system isn’t in use, dust can settle inside, which will cause the smell. After a few minutes, the dust will burn off, and the smell will dissipate.
If you smell anything other than dust at the beginning of the cooling season, you should call for air conditioner repair. If you smell mold, chances are that there is mold built up in the air ducts or inside the system itself. This is a very serious issue because it can affect the air quality in your home. It is very unhealthy to breathe in mold spores, as your family can develop allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy, watering eyes, and a sore throat. If a family member has respiratory issues such as asthma and COPD, mold can exacerbate the symptoms. The best way to keep your family safe and healthy is to call a professional in AC repair immediately.
If you smell something burning when your air conditioner is running, you should turn the system off and call a professional in AC repair immediately. The smell could be due to an electrical issue or burning insulation, which can cause an electrical fire in your Charleston, SC home. This is a major cause for concern and should be checked out by a professional in AC repair immediately.
#4 Strange Sounds Coming From the Air Conditioner
If the air conditioner in your home is functioning properly, you shouldn’t hear more than a low-level hum when you are close to the unit. You might also hear a quiet clicking sound when the system kicks on and off. If you hear any other sounds, you should call a professional in AC repair immediately. There could be a broken or disconnected part inside the system. Allowing the broken piece to rattle around inside the system will cause damage to more internal parts. There could also be an issue with the system’s housing. It would take the knowledge and experience of an AC repair professional to determine the source of the problem and make the necessary repairs.
#5 Moisture Around the Air Conditioner
There should never be moisture or water pooling around your system. If there is, you should call a professional in air conditioning repair immediately.
The problem could be something simple like a clogged, loose or cracked condensate drain hose. It could be something more serious like a refrigerant leak. If this is the case, it can be dangerous. Refrigerants are toxic and can be harmful to pets and small children. Also, as the refrigerant leaks, it will be difficult for your air conditioner to keep your home cool.
It is best to call a professional in AC repair as soon as you notice the moisture.
Why Choose Carney & Son 72 Degrees Air Conditioning & Heating?
If you need to have the air conditioner in your home repaired, schedule an appointment with Carney & Son 72 Degrees Air Conditioning & Heating. We are a family-owned and operated business that has been in our family for over 30 years. Since 1984, we have been serving customers in the area. We have three generations running our business and have an excellent reputation in the community.
To schedule an appointment for AC repair or any other HVAC service, give us a call today.
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