What are the Early Warning Signs of AC Failure?

With summer in full swing, it is important to be aware of the early warning signs of air conditioning failure. Knowing these signs can help you identify potential problems before they become major issues and save you time and money in repairs. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common early warning signs of AC failure, including blowing warm air, strange odors when turned on, noises coming from the indoor unit, leaking around the unit, higher utility bills, and weak airflow from your vents.

Air Conditioning System is Blowing Warm Air

One of the most common early warning signs of AC failure is when your air conditioning system starts to blow warm air instead of cool. This could be a sign that your unit is not working as efficiently as it should, or it could be an indication that there is something wrong with the compressor or other components. If you notice that your AC is blowing warm air, you should contact a professional HV AC technician to inspect your system and determine the cause of the problem.

Strange Odors When AC Turned On

Another common early warning sign of AC failure is strange odors when you turn on your air conditioning system. This could be a sign that there is mold or mildew growing inside your unit, or it could be an indication that there is a refrigerant leak. A strong burning smell could indicate that the insulation on the wiring has been burned, which can lead to a higher risk of fire. If you notice any strange odors when you turn on your AC, it is important to contact a professional technician right away.

Noises Coming from the Indoor Unit

If you hear strange noises coming from your indoor unit, this could be an indication that there is something wrong with the fan or other components inside the unit. If you hear noises such as squealing or scraping, something is likely out of place or needs more lubrication. This issue should be addressed immediately because loose parts can cause damage to the other components of your system. As a result, what was once an easy fix could quickly develop into a costly repair.

Leaking Around the Unit

Leaking around the unit is another common early warning sign of AC failure. If you notice any water or condensation pooling around your air conditioning system, this could be an indication that there is a refrigerant leak or that the drain line is blocked. A refrigerant leak can cause serious damage to your system and should be addressed immediately by a professional HVAC technician. Additionally, a blocked drain line can cause water damage to your home and should also be addressed as soon as possible.

Higher Utility Bills

If you notice that your utility bills are higher than usual, this could be an indication that your air conditioning system is not working as efficiently as it should. This could be due to a variety of issues, such as a refrigerant leak or dirty air filters. If you notice an increase in your utility bills, it is important to contact a professional technician to inspect your system and determine the cause of the problem.

Weak Airflow from Your Vents

When insufficient air is circulated, your system is struggling to do its job and can’t keep the room at a comfortable temperature. When the airflow is weak, it could be caused by duct leaks, a blocked filter, or an accumulation of debris in the ducts. It could also be a sign that the compressor is failing. You can prevent some of these problems by scheduling regular tune-ups and changing your filter every month.

There are several early warning signs of AC failure that you should be aware of. If you notice any of these issues, it is important to contact a professional HVAC technician right away to inspect your system and determine the cause of the problem.

Northern Climate Control offers air conditioning repair, installation, and maintenance. Contact us if you notice any of these warning signs with your air conditioner. We are located in Westminster, Colorado, and serve the entire Denver Metro Area.  Contact us today for a free consultation.