The Moline, IL, area can experience hot and humid summer days that leave residents cranking the AC on in an attempt to find relief. But if your air conditioner needs to be repaired, you may not find the comfort you’re seeking.
In our latest blog post, we’ll discuss the most common signs that your air conditioner needs repairs.
The AC Is Short Cycling
Is your air conditioner turning on, only to turn off again after just a few minutes? This is what is known as “short cycling”. This places unnecessary stress on your air conditioner, raises your energy bills, and results in an uncomfortable home.
One of the most common reasons for short cycling is a dirty air filter. When the filter is clogged, it can restrict airflow and cause the system to overheat, forcing it to shut down to prevent damage. If a dirty air filter is causing the short cycling, having the filter replaced can address the issue.
Other factors can also cause short cycling, so be sure to have a professional HVAC technician in Moline inspect the unit and confirm if a dirty filter is the culprit.
The System Won’t Turn On
Nothing is more frustrating than an air conditioner that simply will not turn on. There are a few common reasons why this might occur. The first thing to check is the thermostat. Sometimes the issue can be as simple as dead batteries or incorrect settings. Make sure the thermostat is set to “cool” and the temperature is set lower than the current room temperature.
Another reason could be a tripped circuit breaker. Go to your electrical panel and see if the breaker for the AC unit has been tripped. If it has, reset it and see if that fixes the problem. If the breaker keeps tripping, there might be a more serious electrical issue that needs professional attention.
Energy Bills Are Rising
Rising energy bills can be a sign that your air conditioner is not working efficiently or is dealing with internal issues. A possibility is that the system is old and has lost efficiency over time. Another potential issue is dirty coils. When the coils inside the unit are dirty, it can restrict heat exchange and make the system work harder to cool your home.
Leaky ductwork can also contribute to higher energy bills. If there are holes or gaps in the ducts, cool air can escape before it reaches your living spaces. This forces your AC to run longer to achieve the desired temperature.
Liquid Is Pooling Beneath Your AC Unit
Finding a puddle of liquid beneath your air conditioner is often a sign that there is an issue with the condensation process. Your AC removes humidity from the air as it cools your home. This moisture collects in a drain pan and flows out through a drain line. If the drain line is clogged or the pan is cracked, water can leak out and pool beneath the unit.
A refrigerant leak can also cause liquid to pool under the AC system. When refrigerant levels are low, the coils can freeze and overflow the drain pan, resulting in the pool of liquid under the unit.
Warm Air Is Coming Through the Vents
Air conditioners are designed to provide your home with cool air. Some problems, however, cause it to do just the opposite. If you feel warm air coming from your vents, a couple of issues could be at play.
One common issue is a dirty air filter. When the filter is clogged, it restricts airflow and can cause the evaporator coil to freeze. When this happens, the system can’t cool the air properly. Lastly, check your thermostat settings. Make sure it is set to “cool” and the temperature is set lower than the current room temperature.
Your Air Conditioner Is Loud While Running
Air conditioners are typically fairly quiet while running, and you shouldn’t hear much more than a low buzzing sound. If you start hearing louder noises, though, your system is likely dealing with internal issues.
A grinding noise, for instance, could mean there is an issue with the motor bearings, while a hissing sound might indicate a refrigerant leak or a rattling noise could be a sign of loose components. Any strange noises should be inspected by your local Moline HVAC technician.
Schedule AC Repair Services in Moline, IL With Schebler
At Schebler Heating and Air, we’re proud to call the Quad Cities home. We provide high-quality air conditioning repairs throughout the Moline, IL, area. Whatever is getting in the way of your home’s comfort, count on Schebler for reliable solutions.
Contact us today to schedule service.