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Signs You Need AC Repair
Most people don’t think about their air conditioners too often—until they stop working. But there are certain signs that your AC system needs professional repair, even when it’s still turning on and running. The sooner you address these issues, the better the outcome for your system and your comfort. Save yourself the hassle of calling for emergency repairs or even full system replacement by acting as soon as possible.
Some of the most common signs that you need professional air conditioning repair include:
- Nothing Happens When You Turn On the AC: If there is no air coming from the AC and nothing happens when you turn it on, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong with your system. An AC that won’t start up could have a variety of problems; we encourage you to contact our Northern Virginia AC repair experts for fast, reliable service.
- You Feel Warm Air Coming from the AC: The first thing to do if you feel warm air coming from your AC is to check your thermostat and make sure it’s set to the right temperature. If your AC is blowing warm air while in cooling mode, it could be a sign that the compressor isn’t working properly or that airflow is restricted.
- There Is Very Little Air Coming from the Vents: Poor or insufficient airflow may indicate a blockage in the ducts, or it could point to a clogged air filter, a broken motor, or something more serious. If you’ve cleaned or replaced your air filter recently and you’re still not getting enough airflow, call our AC repair pros.
- The AC Turns On and Off Very Frequently: Known as “cycling,” air conditioners normally turn on and off to regulate the temperature in your home. However, if you’ve noticed more frequent cycling than normal, it could be a sign that something is wrong with your system. We recommend that you contact our team for an inspection as soon as possible.
- The AC Is Making Strange, Loud Noises: Unusual noises coming from your AC—including loud banging, grinding, rattling, buzzing, or whistling noises—could indicate a serious problem with your system. Different noises indicate different issues; our team can quickly assess your system and find the source of the problem. Then, we’ll get right to work making the necessary repairs.
- Your AC Is Giving Off Unpleasant Odors: If you’ve noticed bad smells coming from your air conditioner or vents, it might be a sign of microbial growth or even mold. Though they can be serious, unpleasant air conditioner odors are often resolved through comprehensive system cleaning, including duct cleaning.
- You’ve Noticed Pooled Water Near Your AC: Air conditioners that utilize refrigerant to cool homes and businesses often produce condensation. However, you should never see pooled water or refrigerant around your AC. If you do, it means that something isn’t working properly, and you should call for immediate service, as a leak could cause serious damage to your home.
Other signs that you may need AC service include high or low humidity throughout your home or business, uneven cooling (i.e., some areas of your home or business are noticeably cooler than others), and unexplained increases in your energy bills, which could indicate that your system is no longer working as efficiently as it once did.
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When to Repair vs. Replace Your Air Conditioner
Deciding whether to repair or replace your air conditioner can be a challenging decision, but several factors can help guide you to the best choice. Here are some key considerations:
- Age of the Air Conditioner: Air conditioning units typically last about 10-15 years. If your unit is approaching or exceeding this age range, it might be more cost-effective to replace it rather than investing in frequent repairs.
- Frequency and Cost of Repairs: If your air conditioner requires frequent repairs and the costs are adding up, it might be more economical to replace the unit. A good rule of thumb is the "5,000 Rule": multiply the age of the unit by the cost of the repair. If the result is more than $5,000, replacement is usually the better option.
- Energy Efficiency: Older air conditioning units tend to be less energy-efficient compared to newer models. If your current unit has a low Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating, replacing it with a more efficient model can save you money on your energy bills in the long run and reduce your environmental footprint.
- Performance and Comfort: If your air conditioner is struggling to cool your home adequately, leading to inconsistent temperatures and discomfort, it may be time to consider a replacement. Newer units often come with advanced features that improve comfort and air quality.
- Refrigerant Type: Many older air conditioning units use R-22 refrigerant, which is being phased out due to environmental concerns. Replacement parts and refrigerant for these units are becoming more expensive and harder to find. If your unit uses R-22, replacing it with a new model that uses R-410A or another environmentally friendly refrigerant is a wise choice.
- Overall Condition of the Unit: Consider the overall condition of your air conditioner. If major components such as the compressor or condenser are failing, and the unit is out of warranty, replacement may be more cost-effective than extensive repairs.
Ultimately, the decision to repair or replace your air conditioner depends on a balance of these factors. Consulting with a professional HVAC technician from AirPlus can provide you with a thorough assessment of your unit and help you make an informed decision tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.
For professional AC repair in Northern Virginia, call AirPlus today at (571) 470-7235.
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Contact Airplus Today
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