Signs That the Air Conditioner Needs Attention
It may be fall, but it’s still hot in this area! While most people around the nation are donning jackets and switching their thermostats to heat, the air conditioner is still necessary for a little while longer here. Despite following the perfect maintenance program and scheduling repairs as soon as needed, a hot summer can strain an air conditioner that requires some attention to carry it through the end of the season.
Coincidentally, some signs of a problematic air conditioner fit perfectly with the season. What usually is attributed to spooky happenings around the home may just be problems with the air conditioner. Here are three signs of air conditioner system problems that can masquerade as haunting manifestations during Halloween. Keep on the lookout for these signs and call for repairs as soon as possible.
Loud Sounds From the AC
One of the first signs that an air conditioner is struggling that can be confused with a spooky encounter is the sounds that issue from the air conditioner. Loud sounds and unusual noises are common hallmarks of mechanical issues but too often, people neglect them. Some of the common sounds heard as air conditioners struggle are:
- Hissing: Hissing can signify that refrigerant is low in a unit. Technicians should look for leaks and patch holes to restore efficient service.
- Shrieking: Squealing and shrieking noises are signs of mechanical issues. Often loose belts or grinding metal can be the culprits.
- Banging: The cause of this noise isn’t a gremlin. It’s probably a loose panel or a blower wheel covered with dust and grime.
- Humming: When maintenance is neglected, moving parts don’t get lubricated. Bearings will wear out and start to hum quietly at first, then very loudly.
Once homeowners hear any weird sounds from their air conditioning system, they should call a professional AC technician to inspect the unit, determine the issue, and repair it.
Non-Functioning Thermostat
The thermostat is an essential piece of heating and cooling equipment in the home because it tells the system when to turn on and off to meet the set temperature. Without it, no home would be comfortable. So, when it starts having trouble, the problem can manifest in creepy temperature swings in the house or a system that runs for too long or too short of cycles.
For the thermostat to tell the heater and air conditioner to come on at the right time, it must be able to read the right temperature. To verify the temperature reading on the thermostat, homeowners can measure the temperature in the area near the thermostat with a separate thermometer. Homeowners may need repairs or a new thermostat if the temperature readings differ.
Uneven Cooling That Leads to Spooky Hot and Cold Spots
Uneven cooling is the final spooky sign that points to an air conditioner problem. Uneven cooling happens when airflow is restricted, and the AC can’t successfully distribute cooled air around the home. The result is hot and cold spots where some areas are over-cooled and others aren’t cooled enough.
Uneven cooling can be caused by leaks in the air ducts that let cooled air escape the ductwork before reaching its final destination. Dirty air filters or neglected maintenance can also cause uneven cooling by restricting airflow. Replacing air filters at least every three months is necessary for good airflow. This can be done by homeowners, or professionals can change them during maintenance visits, but they should be changed more often than maintenance is needed.
About Tiger Temperature
Tiger Temperature has over a decade of experience serving Thibodaux, LA residents, and the surrounding areas. They offer honest pricing, free second opinions, 24/7 emergency service, and maintenance plans with many perks. Call them today for air conditioning repair and maintenance in Thibodaux, LA.
