Know The Signs An AC Needs Repairs
Air conditioning units sometimes have problems that make it hard for you to tell whether they need repairs or just regular maintenance. However, there are several ways homeowners can decide if a problem requires the assistance of an AC repair professional. Checking for the following four signs of problems will tell you when to call an AC repair services company.
Blowing Warm Air
The most obvious sign an AC is malfunctioning is when the air coming from the unit is warm. Several issues might trigger this problem, but the least troublesome cause is dirty coils that handle heat exchanges with the outside air. If you clean the coils with a brush, the cold air should return. However, if the coils are not cleaned promptly, the system can strain and start to experience mechanical or electrical issues. Also, the coils may corrode and fail.
If cleaning the coils doesn't solve the problem, inspect the vents to ensure there are no breaches. You can usually treat these with tape. Once you've tried these tricks, the problem is probably severe enough to need AC repair services.
Recharging Needed
If you have an older system, it's possible that the unit could require more involved work. A frequent issue with older systems is the need to recharge the refrigerant supply. This job requires a licensed professional. In many parts of the country, the law prohibits anyone other than a licensed contractor from adding or removing refrigerant. Otherwise, there's a risk of a refrigerant leak. Also, you could put the wrong refrigerant in the system.
Unusual Smells
Strange odors come from AC units for various reasons. Units that are close to trees may collect decaying leaves in autumn. Ideally, you can just clean the leaves out and see the system's performance rebound. However, you need to make cleaning a regular thing each fall and spring to be sure the system stays clear.
You also may notice the smell of burning rubber or grease from the system. This could be a sign of an electrical problem that could cause a fire, so call a technician immediately.
Frost or Ice
An AC system may develop frozen condensation on the exterior components. This often occurs due to decreased efficiency with age, when the unit struggles with dehumidification. A blockage might trigger condensation issues, so it's advisable to contact an AC repair contractor if you see any parts freezing.
For more information, reach out to AC repair services near you.