If you’re like most people, your summertime is full of frustrating heat and sticky humidity. While this weather can be enjoyable, it’s crucial to have an escape in your home so you and your family can stay comfortable when it rises above 90 degrees outside. One of the most common ways to provide this relief is with a central air conditioning unit.
Unfortunately, these devices sometimes fail, so it’s essential to know the signs your air conditioner needs to be replaced. This article will cover ten common warning signs, helping you know what to expect. If you notice any of these issues in your home, you can count on top-notch AC repair in Tulsa by Quality Heating Cooling & Plumbing.
1. Excessive Noise
If you hear loud banging or screeching sounds from your air conditioner, it desperately needs repair. In some cases, these noises indicate loose belts or rattling pipes inside the unit, but in other cases, the sounds may mean that the motor is failing and requires immediate attention.
2. Unpleasant Odors
If your air conditioner smells musty or moldy when you turn it on, it may indicate bacteria or fungus that can quickly spread to you, your family, or your pets. Such contamination can cause various health problems, so you should take steps to thoroughly clean the unit as soon as possible to avoid putting the members of your household at risk.
3. Slow Performance
Have you noticed that your unit is blowing out cool air but isn’t able to keep the temperature as low as it used to? If so, something may be wrong with the unit, requiring expert inspection, assessment, and repair.
4. Frozen Coils
If your outdoor condenser coils are frozen, there may be a refrigerant leak or other issue in your air conditioner. A blocked coil could cause the compressor to overheat and eventually burn out, so it’s essential to clear the coil immediately to prevent damage.
5. Overheating Problems
If your air conditioner has stopped working or keeps running without cooling your home, those are two clear signs your air conditioner needs to be replaced. The cause of overheating may be a mechanical failure or insufficient coolant levels in the evaporator. Either way, it will need repairs to function properly again.
6. Uneven Temperatures
Does one side of your home continuously feel cooler than the other? This issue could be a sign that the airflow in your ducts is uneven and needs optimization to improve the efficiency of your system. Poor airflow can also trigger a buildup of moisture in your ductwork, leading to mold and mildew growth. If you notice any temperature imbalances in your home, contact a licensed professional to investigate the issue and make any necessary repairs.
7. Increased Energy Usage
If you find that your electricity bills have been going up recently despite no change in your electricity usage, the culprit could be a problem with your air conditioner. An inefficient air conditioner may constantly run to keep a room cool, which uses up far more energy than it would if running at an average rate. Over time, this can lead to higher utility bills and serious financial headaches. While repairs are usually an option, in some cases, it may be more cost-effective to replace your old unit with a new one rather than continue to repair it. An experienced HVAC technician can help you assess each option’s costs and benefits and recommend the best solution for your home and budget.
8. Humidity
Excessive humidity inside your home is a serious problem that can exacerbate various health conditions, such as allergies and asthma. It can also contribute to the development of mold and other allergens, leading to more health problems for you and your family. If you’re noticing excess humidity in your home while operating your air conditioner, it’s crucial to hire an experienced professional to address the situation as soon as possible.
9. Aging System
Your air conditioning system should last about ten years, depending on how much maintenance you provide. This fact means that if your unit is over ten years old, it is probably due for a replacement since it will no longer be capable of functioning efficiently and reliably. Unlike older units, modern models are far more energy efficient and won’t put a huge dent in your budget. They are available in a wide variety of sizes and styles to meet the needs of your home and family. By upgrading to a newer model, you will increase your comfort while reducing energy costs for years.
10. Electrical Issues
One of the most hazardous signs your air conditioner needs to be replaced if it is showing signs of electrical damage. Loose connections or frayed wires can cause this and other types of damage to the electrical components of your system. If this is the case, you need to contact an HVAC professional right away so that they can assess the problem and repair it safely. Electrical issues are extremely dangerous, as they can lead to fires in your home, so it’s always vital to deal with them as soon as possible.
Get Air Conditioning Repairs or Replacement in Tulsa Today
Air conditioners play an essential role in keeping our homes comfortable when it’s hot outside. Don’t leave things to chance when it’s time for replacement or repairs. Find a company you can trust. At Quality Heating Cooling & Plumbing, we are proud to provide expert air conditioning services to Tulsa residents at affordable prices.
If you want to know what causes compressor overload, gauge the repair cost for your unit, or find answers to other common air conditioning questions, please feel free to explore the other informative articles we’ve put together for your benefit on our website. Then, if you’re tired of frequent repairs and have noticed signs your air conditioner needs to be replaced, call Quality Heating Cooling & Plumbing at 918-221-0301 today to schedule your service.