Three Signs Of An Inefficient Air Conditioner

An air conditioner that is inefficient will no longer be able to properly cool your home down during the summer months. This not only means that your home's comfort levels will fall and you will experience areas of heat where you otherwise would not, but it also means that your monthly utility bills are also likely to increase since your air conditioner will have to operate for longer periods of time in order to reach the same temperature that it was previously easily able to achieve. Understanding what some of the most common signs of an inefficient air conditioner are can help you determine when you should talk to an HVAC professional like those with Scott Guerin Heating & Cooling about either repairing or replacing your current unit.

Irregular Sounds

One of the first and more subtle signs that there is something wrong with the regular operation of your air conditioner is if you find that there are strange sounds coming out of your vents or your air conditioner itself when it kicks into gear. Any sound of grinding, buzzing, or otherwise strange sound that seems like it comes from things grinding or hitting together can point to mechanical issues with your air conditioner itself, such as with the fan and blower system, which will reduce how well your unit is able to move chilled air around your home.

Constant Operation

Another clear sign that your air conditioner is not working at its peak efficiency is if you notice that the unit never turns itself off. This is because of a refrigerant leak or some other hidden mechanical issue that prevents your unit from producing an adequate amount of cooling for the entirety of your home. This forces your air conditioner to constantly run as it attempts to reach the temperature set on your thermostat, which will greatly increase your utility bills. Having a professional inspect your system can be the most financially responsible path forward, since repairing or replacing your unit will cut down your monthly energy bills.

Weak Airflow

Finally, a small amount of air coming out of your vents can point to an air conditioning unit that has reached the end of its lifespan. A damaged fan or blower system can reduce the amount of air that your unit is actually able to move through your ductwork. In some cases, however, your fan can be working properly, but your ductwork is clogged with dust and other debris. In this case, having a professional clean out your vents instead of repairing or replacing your unit will get everything working again.