7 Signs that Your Air Conditioner is Failing

In the Denver Metro Area, 300 days of sunshine each year often means pleasant winter days, and can turn to hot temperatures in the summer. You rely on your air conditioner at home for relief from the heat. Being without it can be uncomfortable, annoying and, in some cases, even a safety issue. Don’t be surprised by a failing air conditioner. Watch for these signs before your system quits completely, so you can be prepared.

1. Weak airflow

If you notice that your home just doesn’t feel as cool and comfortable as it should, the first thing you may check is the amount of air coming out of the vents. Weak airflow is an early warning sign that something serious is wrong with your air conditioner. This could mean that the ductwork is clogged, but most likely, it is a signal that the unit’s compressor is failing.

2. Strange noises

Sounds coming from your air conditioner such as squealing, grinding or grating, indicate that something is wrong inside the unit. By addressing this early, your technician may be able to repair the problem before it turns into a more expensive fix, or you are left with no air conditioning at all. If replacement is necessary, the sooner you act the more time you will have to prepare and make decisions before the unit fails completely.

3. Foul smells

Like unusual noises, bad smells coming from your air conditioner are another indication of a problem. A musty smell, likely means that mold or mildew are growing inside the ductwork or unit. Bad odors could also result from burned out wire insulation. Either of these issues should be addressed immediately.

4. Leaks

Moisture around your air conditioner can be caused by one of two things. The more serious risk is a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is a chemical that can pose health risks to you and your family. The second cause is a broken or blocked condensate line. Leaks can start small but quickly develop into more dangerous or costly problems, including mold growth, and should be evaluated and repaired as soon as possible.

5. No cool air

If the air coming from your vents is not cold at all, it is possible that the compressor unit has failed or that the refrigerant levels are too low (a sign of potential failure). Your HVAC technician may be able to repair it or add refrigerant, but you will most likely need to replace your system.

6. Frequent repairs

Frequent repairs are a strong indication that your air conditioner is nearing the end of its life. If the unit is properly sized for your home, and you have kept up with regular maintenance, service calls should be rare. After about 12 years, however, it may simply be too old to repair and purchasing a new system makes more economic sense.

7. High utility bills

A spike in your energy bills could mean that your air conditioner is no longer as efficient as it should be. As parts wear out, the unit has to work harder, using more energy to achieve the same, or sometimes poorer, performance.

Not sure if your air conditioner needs a repair or a replacement? The professionals at Indoor Air Quality, Inc., help homeowners in Highlands Ranch and throughout the Denver Metro Area determine the best course of action. Call us today!