5 Signs It’s Time To Call An Air Conditioner Repair Service | Katy, TX
When it gets hot outside during the summer, you likely spend more time in your Katy, TX home with the AC running to escape the heat and humidity. If you turn on the air conditioner and nothing happens, you can’t escape the heat by going into the house because it will be just as hot inside as it is outside.
Fortunately, you can avoid a complete breakdown if you can detect problems with the air conditioner early. The sooner a problem is detected, the sooner you can call a professional in air conditioner repair, preventing a complete breakdown.
If your air conditioner experiences any of the following issues, it’s best to call a professional as soon as possible.
#1 Thermostat Problems
The air conditioner in your home won’t work correctly if the thermostat is broken. The thermostat is the HVAC system’s brain and sends signals to the unit with commands based on the thermostat setting. A few issues indicate an issue with the thermostat, including:
- The thermostat doesn’t light up.
- The thermostat is unresponsive.
- The air conditioner cycles too frequently.
- The temperature inside doesn’t match the temperature in your home.
Before you call a professional in air conditioner repair, you should try changing the batteries. You don’t want to pay for an unnecessary service call when a simple battery change would solve the problem. If changing the batteries doesn’t help, an HVAC professional can determine if the thermostat needs to be repaired and discuss your options.
Programmable thermostats are no longer the only money-saving option; and you can go with a Wi-Fi or Smart thermostat, and the tech can discuss the benefits of both.
#2 Reduced Airflow
When the air conditioner runs, you should feel a powerful rush of cold air from the vents in your Katy, TX home. If you feel minimal airflow, the unit will work harder to keep your home cool, causing your energy bills to increase. Also, the added strain can reduce the unit’s lifespan. A few issues can reduce the airflow, and you’ll need to call an air conditioner repair service to diagnose the unit.
The possible issues include:
- A build-up of dirt, dust, and debris clogs the ducts and restricts airflow.
- A crack or break in the air ducts allows the cold air to escape before reaching the vents.
- The blower designed to force the cold air to the vents has failed.
The airflow will be restored when the problem is resolved, preventing any further issues associated with airflow.
#3 The Unit Produces Warm Air
The most obvious sign there’s a problem with your AC is if it produces warm air. This problem often requires a call to an AC repair service; however, you should check a few things before making the call.
First, check the air filter. The air filter must be changed regularly because when it gets clogged with dirt and debris, air won’t move through the unit, causing it to overheat. If the filter is clogged, changing it should solve the problem.
Next, check the thermostat setting. It has to be set to the cooling mode, the fan should be set to “auto,” and it has to be warmer in the house than the thermostat setting. The unit won’t function properly if the thermostat isn’t set correctly.
If everything is fine on your end, it’s time to call a professional in air conditioner repair. A few issues can cause the unit to produce warm air, including:
- Frozen evaporator coils
- Refrigerant leak
- Faulty compressor
You’ll need a professional to determine why the unit produces warm air and make the necessary repair.
#4 Foul Smells
The air conditioner in your home should produce clean, odorless air. If there’s a foul smell in your house only when the air conditioner runs, you should immediately call an air conditioner repair service. Foul odors can put your home and family at risk, and you shouldn’t wait to make the call.
Mold: Your air ducts are dark, and when it gets humid in the house, condensation will form, creating the perfect breeding ground for mold. Mold in the air ducts is a serious problem because mold spores will circulate in the air, creating a hazardous situation when the air conditioner runs. Mold exposure causes allergy symptoms, respiratory issues, skin rashes, chronic headaches, and a weakened immune system.
An AC repair service can send a tech to inspect the ducts, and if there’s mold, it can be eradicated with an antimicrobial fogger.
Burning: A burning smell indicates a wiring issue that could start an electrical fire. It’s best to turn off the unit right away and call for emergency service.
The sooner you call a professional in air conditioner repair, the sooner you can be sure your home and family are safe.
#5 Moisture or Pooling Fluid
Moisture around or on the unit often indicates a loose or broken condensate hose. Although this is a simple fix, it’s best to call an air conditioner repair professional immediately. Waiting too long can result in water damage and mold growth, which will cost you more money.
A puddle of green-yellow fluid around the unit indicates a refrigerant leak. This occurs when acid eats away at the metal, creating tiny holes for the refrigerant to leak.
An AC repair service can send a tech to fix the leak and refill the refrigerant, as long as the unit was installed after 2010. If you have an older unit in your Katy, TX home, you’ll need to replace the unit. Older units use R-22 refrigerant, which has been banned, and you’ll need to replace the AC with a newer model.
Why Choose Mr. Reliable Heating & Air?
When you need to schedule an appointment for air conditioner repair, look no further than Mr. Reliable Heating & Air. We are a full-service HVAC company, serving customers in the area for years. Our techs are professionally trained, highly skilled, and qualified to handle all HVAC jobs.
If you have an HVAC problem that can’t wait, we provide emergency service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
To schedule an appointment for air conditioner repair service or any other HVAC service, give us a call or book online.
Photo By eyecrave productions at istock
