How to Tell If Your AC Is Broken: Signs to Watch For

Mar 1

Florida in the summer is brutal, but a broken air conditioning unit makes it unbearable. Luckily, air conditioning units do not typically fail without any warning signs, and recognizing the signs before they become major problems is vital. Small issues often appear first and noticing and fixing them before your entire system breaks down can save you costly repairs and an extremely uncomfortable indoor environment.
In this guide from Thigpen Heating & Cooling, we will explain the signs to look out for, how to know if your AC is broken, and when it is time to call in a professional for help.

Initial Symptoms of AC Failure

The telltale sign that your AC system is failing is when you notice a change in how it operates. The earliest signs can be easy to overlook, especially when your system is working hard during the sweltering summer months. However, some common initial warning signs include:

Your system short cycles (turns off and on frequently)
Airflow feels weak, inconsistent, or warmer than what it is set at
The air conditioner takes longer than usual to cool down your home

If you begin to question if your system is broken, listen to your gut and start paying attention to the performance of your unit. When in doubt, call a professional for a second opinion.

Unusual Noises: What They Mean

Your system will make noise when actively working to cool your home, but it should not be loud or disruptive. If you are hearing odd noises such as banging, clanking, grinding, squealing, or hissing, you may have mechanical issues that need to be further looked into.

These noises can indicate:

Banging/ clanking: Broken or loose internal components
Grinding: Worn out motor bearings
Squealing: Motor or belt issues
Hissing: Ductwork issues or leaks

If you hear a strange noise, do not delay having your system looked at and repaired!

Is Your AC Emitting Odd Smells?

Odd or strange odors should never be ignored. While some smells may only last a couple of seconds, prolonged smells may point to issues within your AC system. If odors persist after changing your filters or cleaning your vents, it may be time to call in a professional. If you smell a musty odor, check for mold or mildew in your ductwork or evaporator coil. Burning smells point to electrical problems that must be addressed immediately, and chemical or sweet smells can signal a refrigerant leak.

Recognizing Ineffective Cooling

Your AC keeps your home comfortable especially in the middle of a hot Florida summer. However, if you notice warm air blowing from your vents, uneven temperatures throughout your entire home, and high indoor humidity, your AC system may be broken. These issues could result from a number of problems. The best way to troubleshoot and fix the issues is to call in your trusted HVAC technician. They will be able to identify the issue and get your AC system working again with little to no downtime.

High Energy Bills Explained

During the summer, your energy bills may take a hit as you run your AC unit more to combat the outside heat. However, a sudden, unexplained spike in your energy bill, even with moderate usage, can be a red flag. When your system is struggling, it works harder and uses more energy, leading to a rise in your energy costs. Refrigerant leaks, failing components, dirty or clogged parts, restricted airflow, and aging systems can all be reasons why your system is working harder.

Even if you do not notice any issues with your AC system, but experience higher than expected energy bills, a routine inspection of your unit may find hidden issues that can be easily repaired.

When to Call a Professional

Some air conditioning issues can be fixed as easily as replacing your air filter or resetting a tripped breaker. However, larger signs of AC damage require the help of a professional. Some of these issues include:

Loud or odd noises
Strange smells or odors
Your AC unit does not turn on
Indoor air temperature variance
Unexpected high energy bills

While a homeowner may be able to fix simple issues, many need extensive service that should only be trusted and performed by a professional. If you are unsure of the issue, schedule a professional inspection to further identify any potential repairs or issues.

Your AC is an essential part of your Florida home and keeps you and your family comfortable during hot outdoor temperatures. Keep your unit in working form by paying attention to any potential signs of trouble including strange or unusual noises and smells, diminished cooling performance, and your energy bills. If you notice anything off, reaching out to a professional like the team at Thigpen Heating & Cooling can help fix the issue early and extend the life of your AC system for years to come.

If you have questions about your AC system and how to properly maintain it for the summer months ahead, reach out to our team at Thigpen Heating & Cooling today.