Five Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Immediate Repair

If you walk into your home on a particularly hot summer day, you’d expect to be greeted by a refreshing wave of cool air. Most of us take our trusty air conditioning units for granted . . . that is, until a problem arises. That’s when it becomes crystal clear just how essential these systems are to your family’s comfort and well-being. Knowing when to call for residential AC repair can save you both stress and money in the long run, especially since many homeowners’ instinct to “wait it out” can turn a minor issue into a major one.

Here are five signs that indicate it’s time to schedule residential AC repair to stay ahead of potential breakdowns and keep your home cool during the summer season.

AC Repair Sign 1: You Hear Unusual Noises 

Your air conditioner should be making a gentle and consistent humming noise. If you start hearing sounds that seem out of the ordinary, it’s your system’s way of telling you something isn’t quite right. One of the most common signs that you need residential AC repair is when your unit starts making unusual noises. And different sounds can point to different problems. 

Let’s say, for instance, you hear a screeching or scratching sound coming from your outdoor unit, this often points to a belt that’s slipped out of position. While this might seem like a minor annoyance at first, ignoring it could lead to the belt completely failing, which could cause extensive damage to your system. Similarly, a metal-on-metal screech might signal failing motor bearings, while persistent clicking could point to electrical issues that require immediate professional attention. The bottom line? If you hear something unusual, call a trusted HVAC technician for residential AC repair. Putting off repairs is not worth the risk of more costly issues down the road. 

AC Repair Sign 2: There’s Little to No Airflow

When you place your hand in front of your vents, you should feel a steady and strong stream of cool air blowing from them. If that airflow seems weak or inconsistent, it’s time to consider residential AC repair. 

Reduced airflow is often a warning sign of a larger underlying issue. Your compressor may be failing or you could have leaks or blockages in your ductwork. In some cases, weak airflow combined with warm air can signal that your system is low on refrigerant or that your ducts are pulling in air from unconditioned spaces like your attic. Rather than waiting for your system to fail completely, having a reliable tech diagnose the issue early can prevent bigger headaches from taking root.

AC Repair Sign 3: Sudden Spikes in Your Energy Bills 

While it’s normal to see your energy costs increase during the summer months, an unexplained rise (think: double your normal costs) can be a sign that your system is in need of residential AC repair. When cooling costs suddenly skyrocket beyond the usual seasonal increase, it typically means your air conditioner is no longer operating efficiently and is working harder just to maintain the same comfortable temperatures. 

From a struggling compressor to blocked ductwork to a refrigerant leak forcing your system to run longer cycles, there are various reasons why this issue arises. Having a professional diagnose and address these issues quickly not only helps avoid expensive utility bills but also prevents a potential system breakdown when you need your AC the most.

AC Repair Sign 4: Unpleasant Smells Coming From Your AC

Strange smells coming from your AC vents are never a good sign. If you catch a whiff of a mysterious odor wafting through your vents, err on the side of safety and call for residential AC repair. A musty, mildew-like smell typically signals moisture problems that have led to mold growth within your system or ductwork. This can translate to serious health concerns, as your AC could be circulating harmful spores throughout your home. 

Similarly, if you smell a burning odor, it could be a sign of an issue with your electrical wiring or the insulation around it. Both scenarios require expert diagnosis and residential AC repair to protect your system and the health of your loved ones, furry friends included.

AC Repair Sign 5: Moisture Leaking from Your Unit

Finding puddles or wet spots around your AC unit? While some moisture around your unit could point to a clogged or damaged condensation drain tube, not all leaks are simply water. A refrigerant leak, for instance, poses a much more serious threat, as most refrigerants are poisonous. These leaks not only damage your unit’s performance but can also create health risks for your family. If you notice any unusual moisture or fluid around your AC unit, it’s best to schedule your residential AC repair to identify the source of the leak before the problem escalates.

Expert AC Repair When You Need It Most

If you’re seeing any of these warning signs, residential AC repair can save you from living in a less-than-hospitable indoor environment and paying for costly emergency repairs. At Silver State, our expert technicians are trained to diagnose and resolve all types of residential AC repair needs, ensuring your system runs efficiently when you need it the most. Contact us 24/7 at (702) 763-9451 for immediate assistance, or click the “Book Now” button at the top of this page to schedule your service.