Signs Your AC is Malfunctioning

Air conditioning is something most people take for granted. They usually don’t notice there’s an issue until it’s too late and they’re sitting in a sweltering house in the middle of a Louisiana July. When it completely stops working, the problem is obvious. But there are earlier warning signs worth catching before you end up without cool air on a 95-degree day.

Weak Air Flow

If you hold your hands up to the vents and it feels as though the airstream is weaker than usual, several factors could be at fault. Commonly, this is caused by a clogged air filter or a failing compressor. The sooner you have this looked at, the better.

Thermostat Issues

Both the condition and placement of your thermostat can have a big effect on the efficiency and reliability of your cooling system. Make sure your thermostat is not placed in direct sunlight because that could cause it to read the room as hotter than it actually is, forcing the air conditioner to overwork.

Consider updating your air conditioner to a newer model. Some of them have a zone feature so you only cool the parts of the home that need it. Others let you set your system to an automatic timer. These features improve the efficiency of your HVAC system, helping it to last as long as possible.

Moisture

Check your air conditioning unit periodically for any signs of moisture or leakage. A small leak can be a sign of a huge problem coming in the future. If refrigerant is escaping, it could be a health risk to your family.

Strange Sounds or Odors

Don’t take a strange sound or odor lightly. Odd noises mean a mechanical problem is developing. Squealing usually points to a belt issue. Grinding often means something is going wrong in the motor. A foul odor could indicate a serious refrigerant or chemical leak.

Rely on Trustworthy Professionals

If you’re noticing any of these signs, don’t wait until the system quits on you completely. We’ve been diagnosing and repairing AC problems across Acadiana since 1956, and catching issues early almost always saves you money. Call F & R Air Conditioning at (337) 893-5646 and we’ll figure out what’s going on with your air conditioner.