Across the nation, families are expected to pay an average of $719 to keep cool this season. That’s a 7.9% increase compared to previous years. Blame it on the rising temperatures and more frequent heat waves.
The last thing you want during this scorching time is a malfunctioning rooftop AC unit pushing your energy bills even higher. That’s where this article comes in. We’ll reveal the key signs that your rooftop AC needs a professional touch.
By recognizing these early on, you can prevent a complete breakdown and save money on repairs. Plus, you’ll ensure a cool and comfortable home throughout the summer. Keep reading to discover these telltale signs:
Unusual Noises
A properly functioning AC unit should run quietly, with a gentle hum. However, if your rooftop unit starts producing unusual noises, it’s a sign of common AC problems. Harsh metallic noises could be caused by loose parts inside your AC unit.
Consequently, high-pitched sound often points to failing bearings within the unit. Bearings are like tiny wheels that allow components to rotate smoothly. When they wear out, the screeching sound indicates friction and potential damage.
Knocking or rattling sounds might stem from a damaged compressor. A damaged compressor can have loose parts or internal issues, leading to knocking or rattling noises. Think of a car engine with a loose part — it creates a knocking sound that indicates something is wrong.
Leaks and Moisture
Your AC unit naturally produces condensation as it cools your home. This condensation needs to drain away through a condensate drain line. If this line gets clogged with dust, algae, mold, and mildew the water can back up and cause leaks around the unit or inside your ductwork.
Refrigerant absorbs heat from your property and releases it outside. A leak in the refrigerant lines may decrease pressure, reducing the unit’s cooling capacity. It can also lead to more leaks as the system struggles to function properly.
Some AC units, especially those installed in basements or crawl spaces, might have a condensate pump. The pump helps move the condensation uphill and out of the unit. If the pump malfunctions, it can cause an overflow and leak around the unit.
Lukewarm Air
If your refrigerant levels are low, your AC won’t be able to absorb enough heat. It leaves you feeling uncomfortably warm indoors. Think of it like trying to cool a pot of boiling water with just a few drops of water.
Your air filter catches dust, dirt, and allergens before they circulate through your home. However, a clogged filter restricts airflow, making it harder for cool air to reach your rooms. While it forces your AC to work harder to compensate, it ultimately leads to lukewarm air.
The compressor pressurizes the refrigerant to make it absorb heat effectively. If the compressor malfunctions, it won’t be able to create enough pressure, resulting in lukewarm air. Schedule a professional inspection and stick to HVAC maintenance tips to avoid discomfort and potential breakdowns.
Rising Energy Bills
An AC unit has two coils: a condenser coil outside and an evaporator coil inside. These coils help absorb and release heat, respectively. Their efficiency reduces when clogged with dirt, dust, and debris, resulting in higher energy bills.
AC units have various components that can wear out over time. A failing compressor, the heart of the system, circulates refrigerant. If it’s not working properly, your AC won’t be able to cool your home efficiently, leading to increased energy consumption.
Your AC unit relies on proper airflow throughout the system for optimal performance. Restricted airflow can occur due to clogged air filters, blocked vents, or even disconnected or leaking ducts. This forces your AC to work harder to circulate cool air, increasing energy bills.
Frequent Cycling
When your AC unit experiences frequent cycling, it turns on and off constantly. It does this even for short bursts instead of maintaining a steady cooling cycle. The rapid on-and-off action can point to several underlying rooftop AC issues.
Every time your AC turns on, it stresses the compressor, which is the heart of the cooling system. Frequent cycling significantly increases this stress. As such, it leads to premature wear and tear on various components.
When your AC constantly cycles on and off, it never reaches its optimal cooling capacity. This inefficiency translates to higher energy bills as your unit works harder to maintain the desired temperature. The constant strain of frequent cycling can lead to a complete breakdown.
Unpleasant Odors
A musty or moldy odor can arise from a damp, dirty AC unit. It often happens when the condensate drain line gets clogged, causing moisture buildup inside the unit. The damp environment is a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can cause irritating smells and trigger allergies and respiratory problems.
A burning plastic or electrical scent is a serious concern. It could indicate overheating electrical components inside your AC unit, possibly due to faulty wiring, a failing compressor, or a clogged system. Ignoring this smell can lead to electrical fires, so immediate AC repair services in Warren, OH are crucial.
Unfortunately, rodents sometimes find their way into your AC unit, seeking shelter. If one dies inside, it can decompose, creating a foul odor that permeates your home. While unpleasant, this issue can also attract other pests.
Age of Your Unit
On average, most AC units last for 10-15 years. However, maintenance schedules, usage patterns, and climate can shorten or extend its life. As your AC unit ages, its components wear out, making it less efficient at cooling your home.
Older units are more vulnerable to breakdowns and require frequent emergency AC repair. This can be a financial burden, especially during the peak summer months. With age, the risk of electrical malfunctions and refrigerant leaks increases, posing safety hazards for your family.
Get Your Rooftop AC Unit Repaired Today
Spot the warning signs that your Warren, OH, rooftop AC unit needs a fix. Fixing a problem AC now saves you money on repairs and keeps you cool all summer. So, don’t wait for a complete breakdown.
Looking for reliable and efficient professional AC repair services? Phillips Heating & Air Conditioning, your Warren, OH HVAC experts, offer fast and reliable repairs. Schedule a checkup and keep your home cool all summer long.
