With summer in full swing – and projected to be one of the hottest on record – air conditioning is essential for many people in the warmer areas of the country. Unfortunately, losing your air conditioning, even for a few hours, can be fatal for vulnerable populations with illnesses or mobility issues. Therefore, if your air conditioning unit is acting up, you want to catch it and get it repaired or replaced at the first sign of trouble to prevent a loss of cooling rather than waiting.

Waiting to take care of repairs can result in a total failure of the unit during a heat wave. Trying to get a technician to repair your air conditioner during a heat wave can be difficult as this is one of their busiest times (many AC units go out when they are working harder than normal to keep the indoor temperature down).

Given this, it’s good to know what the common signs of AC failure are so that you can get it addressed quickly and ensure your air conditioner works well all summer long.

Common signs that your unit may need repair include:

Unusual noises: Unusual noises from your air conditioner are often the first sign of trouble. This can include loud, strange noises like grinding, squealing, or clanking. Often, these noises indicate loose belts or motor bearing issues. Addressing these issues before they cause greater damage can save you from unnecessary and costly repairs in the future.
Weak airflow: If you notice that your air conditioner is putting out less air through the vents than normal, you will want to call someone to check it out. Potential issues with this symptom include a failing compressor, air duct blockages, or a coolant leak. Without fixing the unit, you can experience higher energy bills, and the issue may result in a decreased lifespan of the unit, meaning you may have to replace it entirely.
Bad odors: Unfortunately, sometimes you may get a strong, musty, or foul smell coming from the air conditioner vents. This issue can be caused by burnt-out wire insulation or mold issues in the ductwork. If it’s mold, you may be at risk of developing mold-related health issues. Faulty wire insulation can increase the risk of a fire. Both of these scenarios present significant health and safety risks.
Frequent cycling: If your AC unit is cycling on and off more than usual, a professional inspection could be required to determine the cause. This type of frequent cycling can result in higher energy costs and greater wear and tear to the unit, which may reduce its lifespan.
Moisture/leakage: The presence of any moisture or leaks around the perimeter of the air conditioning unit can be indicative of a refrigerant leak or issues with the condensate drain. Unfortunately, this issue can also be a health hazard as it presents an increased risk of mold and mildew growth in the vicinity of the liquid.
Warm output: If your AC unit is blowing out warm air despite a cooler thermostat setting, you may have airflow issues or problems with the compressor. This can be incredibly uncomfortable, especially when it’s very hot outside. Additionally, it can cause greater strain on the system.

As you can see, there are many causes of air conditioner failure. The best way to prevent a total failure of your unit is to address any issue as soon as you notice it. At this point, repairs are likely much more minimal than they will be if you continue to run it with problems. Additionally, regular maintenance can help prevent any problems, although if you notice something is still wrong, it’s best to call a professional. For more information on conducting regular air conditioner maintenance or addressing a problem with your air conditioner in the San Diego area, contact United Plumbing Heating Air & Electric today!