Your air conditioner (AC) keeps your home cool and comfortable in the summer, but like any item, it can break down. Knowing when to call in a professional for help can save you from the discomfort of a broken system and prevent further damage. If you’re experiencing any of the following signs, it may be time to contact 24-hour AC repair specialists in Cleveland Ohio.
1. Poor Airflow
One of the most noticeable signs that your air conditioning system needs professional repair is poor airflow. If you find that your AC is no longer cooling your home as efficiently as it used to or that certain rooms feel warmer than others, it’s a sign that something is amiss. Clogged air filters, coils, and ducting can reduce airflow. These faults can overwork the system, raising energy bills and reducing cooling capacity.
While you can change the air filter yourself, if airflow issues persist, it may be due to a more serious problem with the coils or ducts. Professional HVAC technicians can diagnose and optimize airflow to keep your system running smoothly.
2. Strange Noises
Air conditioners function quietly to provide cool comfort without disturbing you. When your AC makes weird noises, something’s amiss. Common sounds like buzzing, rattling, or grinding could signal problems such as a loose fan belt, debris caught in the fan, or worn-out parts within the system.
A hissing sound, on the other hand, could indicate a refrigerant leak, which we’ll discuss in more detail later. Regardless of the type of noise, any abnormal sound should be addressed promptly to avoid further damage to the system. If you’re hearing strange noises, it’s best to call in a professional to inspect and repair your AC before the problem worsens.
3. Refrigerant Issues
Air conditioning relies on refrigerant. For efficient interior cooling, it absorbs and releases heat. If your AC is low on refrigerant, it can lead to reduced cooling performance, and in some cases, it may even stop cooling altogether. One of the most common signs of refrigerant issues is an AC that blows warm or lukewarm air, even when it’s set to a low temperature.
Refrigerant leaks are often the cause of low levels. Over time, the refrigerant can leak out through small cracks in the coils or connections. While it’s tempting to add more refrigerant yourself, this is not a DIY job. Low refrigerant is usually a symptom of a more significant problem, such as a leak, and adding more refrigerant without fixing the leak can be wasteful and harmful to the environment.
If you suspect your AC is having refrigerant issues, it’s crucial to call in a 24-hour AC repair specialist in Cleveland, Ohio, as soon as possible. A technician will find and fix the leak, then correctly recharge your system with refrigerant.
4. AC Turns On And Off Frequently
Another sign that your air conditioner may need professional attention is if it constantly cycles on and off. This issue, called “short cycling,” might be caused by a broken thermostat, an oversized air conditioner, or compressor troubles. Short cycling diminishes AC efficiency and stresses the system, causing premature wear and tear.
If your AC is turning on and off more frequently than usual, it’s important to have it inspected by an expert. A technician can determine if the problem is electrical, thermostatic, or internal component-related.
5. Water Leaks Around The AC Unit
Water gathering near your AC unit may indicate a drainage or refrigerant leak. Air conditioners work by removing moisture from the air, which is then drained through a pipe. If the drain line is clogged or the pump is malfunctioning, water can accumulate around the unit, leading to potential water damage.
In some cases, water leaks could also indicate a refrigerant leak, as low refrigerant levels can cause the evaporator coils to freeze and thaw, resulting in water pooling around the unit. Water leaks can harm your air conditioner and property regardless of the reason. Contact a professional to inspect the system and resolve the issue promptly.
6. Foul Odors
If your air conditioner emits a musty or burning smell, it’s time to call in a technician. A musty smell could indicate mold or mildew growth within the system, particularly in the ductwork or on the evaporator coils. Mold can affect your health, so fix it right away.
However, a burning scent may indicate a short circuit or motor failure. In either case, it’s important to have the system inspected by a professional to avoid potential fire hazards.
Conclusion
Air conditioners are crucial to home comfort, especially in summer. When your AC begins to show signs of trouble, such as poor airflow, strange noises, refrigerant issues, or water leaks, it’s essential to contact 24-hour AC repair specialists in Cleveland, Ohio. Professional HVAC technicians have the expertise to diagnose and repair these issues, restoring your AC’s efficiency and extending its lifespan. Don’t wait for the problem to worsen—call in the experts as soon as you notice any of these signs.