Is Air Conditioner Replacement Necessary?

A broken air conditioning unit can be tricky to spot. Depending on the issue, malfunctioning air conditioners can still blow cool air even during the summer. It's essential to pay attention to the warning signs to save money on monthly energy bills while keeping the home comfortable.

It's a Hot House

If the home is consistently warm even with the air conditioning on full blast, this could be a problem with the thermostat. When the thermostat cannot properly signal the air conditioning unit, the AC is inconsistent with a regular thermometer. 

To determine if the thermostat is broken, homeowners can perform a quick trick indoors. Next to the thermostat, secure an old-fashioned mercury thermometer to the wall. The thermometer should not be next to a window or vent. After waiting approximately one hour, homeowners are advised to check the mercury thermometer for the same temperature as the thermostat. The mercury thermometer will give the correct reading.

If hot air comes out of the vents, it is due to a broken component inside the HVAC system. Usually, the blower fan or outdoor compressor unit is to blame. If the outside unit does not have power, this may be fixable without calling a professional. Checking the circuit breakers lets homeowners know if the electricity is running outside the unit. Air conditioning repair costs are much less expensive when the problem is fixed early.

Weak airflow is a common reason for indoor heat. If the air conditioner must work twice as hard to blow cool air through the ventilation system, this may not reach every room. Sometimes, a clogged air filter will prevent cool air from circulating. Other times, there may be a problem with the air conditioning installation. 

Increasing Energy Bills

A sudden increase in energy bills indicates a malfunctioning appliance. The larger the increase, the larger the appliance. When an air conditioner is no longer efficient, this can cause a spike during the hottest months of the year. 

The typical air conditioning unit lasts 15 to 20 years. They may last longer with annual maintenance, but even the best maintenance cannot keep an air conditioner running forever. When the AC needs more repairs to keep it running smoothly, it usually means the AC only has a few years left before it shuts down. At this point, air conditioning replacement may be more cost-efficient than spending money on frequent air conditioner repairs.

Unusual Smells and Noises

The AC should never give off any type of odor, and this is true for old and new units. If the air filters have been replaced once every few months, smells may be a sign of coil damage. 
The evaporator coil is an essential component of the AC. It risks becoming contaminated if it hasn't been cleaned at least once per year. This is usually due to microbial growth or mold. Many times, these issues can be prevented with regular maintenance and cleanings. Burning smells are much more dangerous and require immediate professional help. 

Banging and screeching sounds are also signs of a serious problem. If banging can be heard on the other side of the wall, this is an issue with the compressor. Typically, this happens during the middle of an AC's lifespan. As the AC ages, certain components come loose and rattle against the unit.

Screeching is a more common issue. This can happen when the fan motor is damaged. When the fan no longer works, it cannot remove heat from the indoors, eventually causing a complete shutdown of the system. A broken motor must be fixed ASAP. 

About The Bosworth Company Kerrville

The Bosworth Company Kerrville provides heating and AC installation for residents in Midland, TX. Their experienced HVAC technicians can help with every aspect of the system, including maintenance, repairs, and replacements as needed. Call today to learn more about their $25 off coupon for first-time customers! 

Contact Information:

The Bosworth Company Kerrville

2812 Blacksmith Ln
Kerrville, TX 78028
United States

Evie Gandy
(830) 428-2764
https://bosworthkerrville.com/