5 Warning Signs Your AC Is Struggling
Adam Mennenga and Jeff Sims
It’s July, and the unrelenting Texas heat is taking a toll on Texas air conditioners, pushing many past the failure point.
You should know these warning signals that your central air is struggling. If it is, find out why. Most AC problems can be repaired, if you catch them early enough.
1. Weak or Warm Air Flow – This usually indicates a dirty air filter, which you can change yourself. But it may be low refrigerant or a problem with the compressor, a frozen evaporator coil or a problem with ductwork.
2. Strange Noises – Squealing sounds may mean a blower or compressor fan needs lubrication; clicking sounds indicate an electrical problem. Loud clanking is likely a blower assembly. A grinding sound is serious because it could be a failing compressor.
3. Moisture or Leakage – Moisture forms on the condenser coil (part of the inside equipment) and drips into a drain pan. If the tube that carries it away gets clogged, the water can overflow into your home. Worse, if your refrigerant is low the coil can freeze and stop the AC from cooling. When it thaws, a lot of water goes to the drain pan.
4. Strange Odors When AC is Running – A pungent smell indicates damaged insulation on wiring. A smell like engine exhaust may mean a fluid leak, while a “dirty feet” smell suggests mildew or fungus somewhere in the system.
5. Electric Bills Suddenly Higher – Anything that causes your central air system to work harder makes it run more and use more electricity. Air conditioning accounts for about half your summer electricity bills, so your bills can go up pretty fast.
Free Remote Video Diagnostic Service
If you suspect a problem, check it out now. billyGO offers free, remote diagnostic service so you see if you need a service call by one of our AC technicians or if it’s something you can handle yourself.
Go to billyGo.com/Schedule-Appointment and then select AC REMOTE VIDEO DIAGNOSTIC in the drop-down menu just beneath the words, “What can we help you with?” Then follow the prompts (there are only two steps).
YOU Set the Day and Hour!
You always get to schedule your own one-hour appointment window with billyGO. This applies to all billyGO appointments, including free remote diagnostic checks.
Think you might have an AC problem? Schedule your free remote diagnostic now.
