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Air conditioners are essential appliances that keep us cool and comfortable during the hot summer months.
But like any other machine, they need regular servicing and maintenance to function efficiently and effectively.
If you neglect your AC, you may end up with higher energy bills, poor air quality, and costly repairs or replacements.
So how do you know when it’s time for air conditioner servicing? Here are eight signs that indicate you need to call an air conditioning engineer as soon as possible.
1. Your AC is making strange noises
If you hear unusual sounds coming from your AC unit, such as rattling, buzzing, hissing, or squealing, it could mean that something is wrong with the fan, the compressor, the refrigerant, or other components.
These noises could indicate a loose part, a leak, a blockage, or a malfunction that needs to be fixed before it causes further damage.
2. Your AC is blowing warm air
One of the most obvious signs that you need air conditioning servicing is when it fails to cool your room properly.
If you feel warm air coming out of the vents, it could mean that your AC is low on refrigerant, has a dirty filter, or has a problem with the thermostat or the fan.
A professional can diagnose the issue and restore your AC’s cooling capacity.
3. Your AC is leaking water or refrigerant
Your AC produces condensation as part of its regular operation, but this water should be drained out through a pipe or a pan.
If you notice water dripping or pooling around your AC unit, it could mean that the drain line is clogged, cracked, or disconnected.
This can cause water damage to your walls, floors, or ceilings, as well as mould growth and health risks.
Another type of leak that you should watch out for is a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is the substance that cools the air in your AC system and should be contained in a closed loop.
If you see ice forming on the coils or pipes, or if you smell a sweet or chemical odour near your AC unit, it could mean that refrigerant is leaking out.
This can affect your AC’s performance and efficiency, as well as pose a threat to the environment and your health.
4. Your AC is cycling on and off frequently
Your AC should cycle on and off periodically to maintain a consistent temperature in your room.
However, if you notice that your AC is turning on and off more frequently than usual, or if it runs for very short or very long periods, it could mean that something is wrong with its electrical system, its thermostat, or its compressor.
This can cause unnecessary wear and tear on your AC components and increase your energy consumption.
5. Your AC has poor airflow
If you feel that the air coming out of your vents is weak or insufficient, it could mean that your AC has a problem with its airflow.
This could be caused by a dirty or clogged filter, a blocked or leaky ductwork, a faulty fan motor, or a low refrigerant level.
Poor airflow can reduce your AC’s cooling efficiency and create hot and cold spots in your room.
6. Your AC has bad odours
If you smell unpleasant odours coming from your AC unit, such as musty, mouldy, burnt, or rotten smells, it could mean that your AC has a problem with its cleanliness or its wiring.
Bad odours could indicate the presence of mould, mildew, bacteria, dust, dirt, or pests in your AC system, which can affect your indoor air quality and trigger allergies or asthma.
They could also indicate an electrical issue that could cause a fire hazard.
7. Your AC has high humidity levels
Your AC should not only cool your room but also dehumidify it to create a comfortable environment.
If you notice that your room feels damp, sticky, or clammy even when your AC is running, it could mean that your AC has a problem with its humidity control.
This could be caused by a dirty or faulty evaporator coil, a clogged drain line, or an oversized unit. High humidity levels can make your room feel hotter than it is and promote mould growth and dust mite infestation.
8. Your AC has increased energy bills
One of the most subtle signs that your AC needs servicing is when you see a sudden spike in your energy bills without any change in your usage patterns. This could mean that your AC is working harder than it should to cool your room, due to any of the issues mentioned above.
9. Your AC is causing circuit breaker trips
If your AC is causing your circuit breaker to trip frequently, it could mean that your AC is drawing too much power or has a short circuit somewhere. This could be due to a dirty or faulty condenser, a faulty capacitor, a worn-out compressor, or a wiring issue. A circuit breaker trip can protect your AC from overheating or catching fire, but it can also damage your AC components and disrupt your cooling.
How to service your AC?
The best way to prevent these problems from happening is to service your AC regularly before the start of the warmer weather. A professional technician can inspect and service your AC unit and perform tasks such as:
- Cleaning or replacing the air filter
- Cleaning the coils and the fan
- Checking the refrigerant level and pressure
- Checking the electrical connections and components
- Checking the thermostat and the controls
- Checking the drain line and the pan
- Lubricating the moving parts
Testing the system’s performance and efficiency
Air condition servicing typically costs around £90 to £125 and can save you thousands in repair or replacement costs.
You should have your AC serviced at least once a year, preferably in the spring, to ensure its optimal operation and longevity.
Conclusion
Your AC is a valuable investment that deserves proper care and attention.
By servicing your AC regularly and watching out for these eight signs, you can keep your AC in top shape and enjoy a cool and comfortable summer.
If you are looking for an air conditioning installer or maintenance specialist in Surrey, make sure to choose an experienced and certified service.
