With summer virtually knocking on the door, chances are you’ll be getting your air conditioning system primed and ready for the upcoming heat. And getting your air conditioning summer-ready typically means putting it through comprehensive servicing and maintenance.
An experienced and reputable air conditioning technician will recommend that you service your system once a year to maintain its performance. But of course, your aircon might present signs that suggest it needs immediate professional attention. From poor airflow to bad odours and much more, let’s look at 5 of the most common indicators that your air conditioner needs servicing ASAP.
1. Weak Airflow from Vents
If you have ducted air conditioning cooling your whole home, weaker-than-usual airflow from your vents can be highly inconvenient. But more than that, it can point to potentially larger issues within your aircon system. Among these possible problems are:
- Clogged filters
- Obstructed ductwork
- Malfunctioning blower fan
These issues force your system to work harder which results in greater energy consumption and higher bills. Poor airflow also negatively affects indoor comfort levels. You’ll often find some rooms feeling cooler than others and your air con more ineffective overall.
Sweeping this all-too-common sign under the carpet could place further strain on the system and potentially cause more serious damage over time. Which is the last thing you want.
Addressing weak airflow early ensures your home stays comfortable and your unit runs efficiently.
2. Air Conditioner Is Blowing Hot Air
On a searing hot summer day, the last thing you want is to find your air conditioning system only blowing hot air into your house. Sometimes nipping the issue in the bud is as simple as switching the thermostat setting from heat mode to cooling mode, as Air Con Service Near Me suggests. In many cases though, it may require a more thorough examination as part of a detailed air con service.
Other possible causes of your air conditioner seemingly being incapable of blowing cool air include airflow obstructions, dirty filters and refrigerant gas leaks – all issues that a licensed service technician will be able to resolve.
3. Unusual Noises During Operation
When you turn on the aircon on a hot summer’s day, what you want to hear from the system is ABSOLUTELY NOTHING (or as close to it as possible). What you don’t want to hear is strange noises that have no business coming from an air conditioner.
Unusual aircon noises can be unsettling and typically signal that something is wrong with your system. Clanking, rattling, or banging may indicate loose or broken parts, while hissing can indicate that your system is leaking refrigerant gas. On the other hand, grinding or squealing sounds suggest a temperamental aircon motor or that there are other internal components playing up.
Don’t ignore these noises and assume they’ll just go away by themselves. By continuing to run your unit with unresolved mechanical problems, you run the risk of more extensive damage and costly repairs.
Getting on top of unusual sounds ASAP helps maintain your system’s health and efficiency. If your air conditioner starts making strange noises, a professional aircon technician will be sure to correctly diagnose and fix the problem.
4. Inconsistent Cooling or Hot Spots
Ever gone into a home with ducted air conditioning and found some areas of the house cooler than others, or rooms that remain warm even with the air conditioner running? This is a sign of inconsistent cooling and can spawn from various problems, such as:
- a faulty thermostat
- blocked vents, or
- Imbalanced air distribution
It could even indicate that your air conditioner is struggling to maintain performance due to age or mechanical wear.
Inconsistent cooling affects indoor comfort while also signalling that your system is working harder than it perhaps should be. Addressing uneven temperatures as soon as possible helps to keep your air conditioner running efficiently and keeps your home uniformly comfortable.
5. Bad Odours When the System is Running
Catching a whiff of some unpleasant odour while you’ve got the aircon on? That’s another telltale sign that something is off.
Musty smells often indicate mould or mildew growing in the ducts or within the unit itself. This is generally a result of excess moisture in the system. A burning smell could signal issues like damaged wiring or overheating components; leave either of these unaddressed and it can become very dangerous very quickly.
Ignoring these odours can impact indoor air quality and potentially harm your health. Addressing bad smells promptly with the aid of a licensed air conditioning technician helps maintain a fresh, safe home environment. They can diagnose and fix the problem to guarantee that your air conditioner operates cleanly and effectively.
6. Higher Than Usual Energy Bills
A sudden, inexplicable spike in your energy bills can be a red flag that your air conditioner isn’t running as efficiently as it should.
When air conditioner parts and components wear out or become faulty, the unit has to work harder to maintain the set temperature. This extra strain involves higher energy use which translates to higher electricity bills. Issues such as dirty filters, refrigerant leaks, or failing components could be the culprits behind the higher costs.
Paying attention to this sign and calling a professional for servicing can help catch and fix the issue early. It’ll effectively save you money in the long run.
Why You Should Always Use a Licensed Air Conditioner Technician
Now we’ve mentioned several times that you should use a licensed air conditioning technician when your system needs a thorough service. This might leave you thinking “I’m a bit of a DIY aficionado… why can’t I service it myself?”
Relying on a licensed air conditioner technician guarantees that your system gets the best possible care and attention. They boast the required skills, knowledge and experience to safely and effectively handle everything from basic maintenance tasks to more complex servicing needs.
Licensed technicians comply with strict industry standards and local regulations so you know that they’ll do the job right. Aside from that, they’re also the only people who can legally access refrigerant gases, so they’re who you need when your system’s refrigerant needs replacing.
Yes, unlicensed technicians or DIYers may offer their services at a much cheaper upfront rate. But that cheaper rate often comes with a sub-standard quality of work attached to it, plus you don’t get the safety assurance that a licensed expert provides. When it comes to the crunch, trusting licensed professionals protects your home, system, and overall comfort.
Stay Ahead with Professional Servicing
Being alert to the signs that your air conditioner needs attention can make all the difference in maintaining a comfortable, efficient home. Quickly getting on top of problems such as weak airflow, unexpected energy spikes, and unpleasant odours is the best way to prevent bigger issues and costly repairs.
When the time comes to service your system, always remember to use a licensed aircon technician. Regular maintenance and prompt servicing keep your system running smoothly, extend its lifespan, and improve energy efficiency. Don’t wait for problems to escalate—call a professional to keep your home cool and comfortable.
