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Indicators the Old AC Needs Repair or Replacement

Summer is one of the worst possible times to have a broken AC. Unfortunately, due to the heavy usage during the hottest months, that is when they tend to break down. If homeowners know the symptoms that point to a need for AC repair, they can get the problem dealt with before it becomes an emergency. The signs below indicate a home may need air conditioning repair or AC replacement.

Sign #1: The House is Too Warm

This symptom can be disguised by or attributed to the heat outside. Sometimes when it is exceptionally warm, an air conditioner may have trouble keeping the home at optimal temperature. Still, it should not be hot in the home, no matter the temperatures outside. If an air conditioning unit is having significant trouble keeping the home at a comfortable temperature, there may be a need for air conditioning replacement. Even if the whole unit does not need to be replaced, several things could be wrong.

Clogged or dirty air filter
Air duct damage or obstruction
Malfunctioning blower
Coolant leak
Short cycling

Sign #2: Energy Bills are Through the Roof

Just how long has that HVAC unit been there? As any appliance or machine ages, it gains wear and tear and loses efficiency. This means the machine will work much harder to reach the same comfort level within the home. More energy use means that utility bills will spike. The unit may experience overheating issues, which can lead to other problems. Though pieces can be replaced, there is sometimes so much use that replacing all the necessary parts is more expensive than replacing the whole unit. If a homeowner has seen a significant increase in their bills without a significant increase in usage, then there is likely a problem with the system’s efficiency.

Sign #3: Unpleasant Sounds or Smells

Another indicator of a problem with the unit is when it starts making strange noises or strange smells coming from the vents. Many problems like this can be fixed by a professional fairly easily, while others may require a more significant repair or complete replacement.

Banging: A banging sound can indicate that something has come loose within the unit and may be caught in a moving part. If not dealt with, it can cause more damage within the unit.
Whistling or Hissing: This can be a sign of a leak. This can be in the air ducts or, more seriously, in the coolant tubing.
Musty Smells: If the unit is not draining properly, it can lead to moisture buildup, and mold or mildew may begin to grow. This can stem from several problems, including dirty air filters and ducts.
Burning Smells: This can be due to an electrical issue and should be dealt with immediately.

About Cardinal Heating & Air Conditioning

Cardinal Heating & Air Conditioning offers professional, fast service in Sun Prairie, WI, and the surrounding areas. Call today for 24/7 emergency AC service. Learn more about the author here.

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The Top Signs That AC Repair Is Needed Before Summer Hits

Summer marks the season of hot days at the pool with cool glasses of lemonade. There's nothing worse than walking inside from a hot afternoon to a broken or aged air conditioner. That's why it is so important for homeowners to know the different signs to look for that their AC needs repair. Of course, it is best to notice these signs before summer even hits. Now is the perfect time for homeowners to professionally maintain their air conditioner to prepare it for the season ahead.

Still, though, breakdowns can happen anytime. Below is more information so homeowners aren't stuck with a hot house in the summertime!

Hot Air and Low Air Flow

When an air conditioner blows out hot air, this is typically the first noticed sign that the AC needs repairs. After a long winter, it is common for air conditioners to need some form of maintenance or repair. That is why it is always recommended to have maintenance done in the spring, so homeowners aren't stuck with a broken air conditioner when the weather gets hot.

However, this isn't the only sign of a broken air conditioner. Low airflow is also a common sign that there are some problems within the unit. If the homeowner feels as though their home isn't cooling down as fast as it used to, this is a Telltale sign, but there are some underlying issues. When these things occur, the homeowner should call in a professional. The professional will be able to inspect the unit and has everything fixed accordingly and efficiently.

Signs of Leaking

Leaking is another sign that the air conditioner is having some problems. However, this sign isn't as easily noticed because the air conditioning unit is placed outside. So, the homeowner will have to go outside and check the unit themselves periodically. Doing so will ensure that if there is a leak, the problem gets eradicated immediately.

The most common sign of a leak in the air conditioner will appear just around the outside of the unit. There may also be leaking happening within the unit, but this likely goes unnoticed most of the time. That said, leaking can lead to other signs, including:

Low airflow

The air conditioner not turning on

Strange odors surrounding the air conditioner

The smell of freon in the home

Hearing Strange Noises?

Similarly to when plumbing pipes are clogged, a broken or compromised air conditioner can also lead to strange noises being heard in the home. The same strange noises could come from the unit itself as well. There could be metal pieces banging around within the unit if there is a broken piece somewhere, or the unit could make loud noises every time it tries to turn on.

If the sound has anything to do with the air conditioner, the homeowner should call a professional. All of the above-stated signs can lead to serious and expensive repair bills if they are not caught early enough. It is always best to have the AC unit professionally maintained every spring to ensure that it is ready for the season ahead.

Leave It To Cardinal Heating & Air Conditioning

Cardinal Heating & Air Conditioning work hard to keep the residents of Sun Prairie, WI safe with efficient air conditioning. They are committed to providing fast, clean, and professional services no matter what. They even offer 24-hour services because they understand that AC problems can occur at all hours of the day or night. Call today for AC repair service!