We all know how hot and sticky our summers can get, with temperatures making our environment downright unbearable during the middle of summer. That being said, it’s absolutely essential that you have a fully efficiency and effective air conditioner to get you through spring and summer.
If you haven’t already scheduled cooling system maintenance for your AC, then now is definitely the time to do so. Getting your system maintained every spring is the best way to ensure that you can avoid costly repairs. Of course, if your air conditioner is aging then no amount of maintenance will help last forever, just as no amount of repairs will prevent AC replacement in Rio Rancho, NM, if your system is a decade old or older.
Your Cooling System is Very Noisy
You know better than anyone else what sounds to expect from your air conditioner when it’s operating. There is, after all, the sound of the regular cycle of the compressor coming on, in addition to the hum of the fans. Ensure that you pay attention to any strange or unfamiliar noises that interrupt this typical white noise, since it’s often a sign that something is wrong.
Sounds like clanging or clattering can mean that mechanical parts have become loose, and hissing can indicate that you have refrigerant escaping form the system. Grinding and screeching are also ominous sounds, both warning of motors that are wearing down and maybe even burning out. Many times, repairs can manage this type of problem, but if your AC is near the end of its lifespan anyway, you’ll probably want to consider a system upgrade.
Short-Cycling
Like we said, a regular part of AC operation is the hum of the fans and the gentle, steady cycle of the compressor. But if you hear the compressor turning on and off rapidly, then you have an actual problem on your hands. This process is called short-cycling, where the compressor cycles on and off every 15 minutes or so. It means that the compressor isn’t finishing its full cooling cycle for some reason, and is instead shutting down prematurely to restart a short time later.
There are a number of potential causes for this—it can be a clogged air filter (you should be sure to change your air filter every 1-3 months during periods of use), a miscalibrated thermostat, or even a loss of refrigerant. But another cause is that the wear and tear of years of use have gotten your system to a point that it’s time to replace it.
Loss of Cooling Power or Uneven Cooling
Obviously, if your air conditioner is no longer providing sufficient cooling then you know something is wrong. Loss of cooling power is one that indicates an immediate need for inspection, potential repair, and maybe even replacement.
But uneven cooling is a little more subtle. And sometimes, it can be fixed by repairing the ductwork or applying some caulking in drafty windows. However, it can also be the sign that your air conditioner is too old and just can’t handle the demand being placed on it anymore.
If you’re unsure of whether you need AC repair or if it’s time for replacement, give our team a call. We’re happy to help you make an educated decision about next steps.
Schedule reliable air conditioning services by contacting Axiom Home Services, Inc. for your expert AC installation!