Although your air conditioning is a workhorse, it is unfortunate that some homeowners neglect its maintenance until the extreme temperatures roll around. Since this equipment is made up of a complex system of movable parts, it creates a latitude for an array of problems to crop up. Nevertheless, the need for air conditioning repairs does not happen overnight. Undoubtedly, your HVAC system will be exhibiting symptoms of disrepair long before it completely gives out. Knowing how to spot these symptoms and acting on them can save you from complete air conditioning replacement. So how do you know if you are facing impending air conditioning repairs?
There is a change in airflow
Your air conditioning unit does not simply provide you with cool air. It also is responsible for ensuring that this cool air reaches the parameters that have been set out. This distribution of the cool air that has been generated is done using a system of ductwork and fans around your home. If you can feel cool air blowing out of the vents, but it the flow is too weak to service the room, chances are you are heading toward air conditioning repairs. The most probable cause for this is malfunctioning blower fans. However, it is best to seek the services of an HVAC contractor so they can determine and fix the issue before it gets worse.
There are smells in the air
If you catch a whiff of strange odours in the air, you need to establish what the cause is. This is because strange odours are typically a sign of a larger underlying issue that will only escalate over time. For instance, if it is burning smells in the air, it is highly likely that your air conditioning system is overheating. Burning smells can also be caused by faulty wiring that is sparking within the system. On the other hand, if the air smells musty, then it means there is moisture collecting in the system. This would most probably be due to a faulty drain line. Not addressing the musty smells can lead to mould and bacteria breeding in your air conditioning system, and this would compromise the entire air quality of your home.
There are unusual noises
Despite the fact that not all air conditioning systems will run inaudibly, the fact remains that they should not be overly noisy. If you start to hear clanking sounds coming from the system, it could mean there is some loose or broken hardware within the unit. Hissing noises, on the other hand, could indicate a leak has sprung in the refrigerant.