Having reliable air conditioning in your Nesbit, MS, home is critical. However, central air conditioners aren’t cheap. That leads most people to try and prolong their AC’s life for as long as possible. The key to doing that lies in knowing when your AC needs repair so that you can address the problem quickly. That’s how you can avoid issues that might force you to replace your AC completely. To help you spot the signs of AC trouble quickly, here are five ways to tell when you need AC repair. We’ll also cover when you should forego repairs and purchase a new AC.
Signs You Need an AC Repair
Not all signs of AC trouble will be obvious. Some are so subtle that you’d struggle to notice them unless you knew where to look. Here are five signs you need AC repair that you should watch for.
1. Sudden Energy Bill Spikes
Air conditioning is a power-intensive process. So, it isn’t unusual for your power bills to climb in the summer. However, if your summertime power bill suddenly climbs even when the temperature doesn’t, you may need an AC repair. Anything from faulty capacitors to failing motors and ductwork leaks can cause such a problem. Figuring out what’s causing your AC to use more electricity quickly may spare you from needing a replacement.
2. Odd Smells or Sounds
Although your AC is never silent when it runs, it should never be louder than your average background noise. So, if you hear any odd sounds while your AC runs, you should investigate their source immediately. The same thing goes for any odd odors you detect coming from your AC or vents. If you smell anything that seems out of place or that you can’t identify, call us for help right away.
3. A Drop in Airflow
Another common sign of an AC that needs repair is a marked decrease in airflow from your home’s vents. This can happen because of something as simple as a dirty air filter. However, if you replace your air filter and still have an airflow problem, something else is wrong. Often, this can mean that your AC’s blower fan needs adjustment or replacement. Or it could mean there’s an obstruction or leak in your ductwork.
4. Unusually High Humidity
Here in Nesbit, high humidity is common in the summer. However, your home’s air conditioner will remove a fair amount of that humidity as it runs. So, if your AC comes on but it remains unusually humid in your home, you may need an AC repair. Excessive indoor humidity could mean your AC has a refrigerant leak. It may also mean your AC’s condensate drain line or pump has a problem. In either case, the sooner you call for an AC repair, the better.
5. AC Struggling to Control Temperature
On average, residential AC systems can lower your home’s temperature by 15 to 25 degrees compared to the outdoor temperature. That assumes, of course, that your AC is the right size for your home and is in good condition. If your AC begins struggling to control your home’s temperature or has difficulty hitting those averages, it likely needs repair. Often, an AC that needs repair will exhibit declining performance over time. So, a problem may not be immediately obvious until the temperature outside climbs significantly. Once you notice your AC struggling, though, you should schedule a repair appointment right away.
When AC Repairs Aren’t Worth It
In some situations, even when an AC repair is possible, it won’t be a smart financial move. In general, any repair that costs more than 50% of the cost of a new system isn’t worth it. You can also apply a formula that AC pros call the rule of 5,000. To use it, multiply the projected cost of a repair by the age of your AC system. If the number you get is over 5,000, the repair isn’t worth it. The formula essentially compares what you’re spending to how much longer you can expect your AC to last. Past a certain point, investing money in an old AC becomes wasteful.
Your Local AC Repair Experts
No matter what kind of repairs the AC in your Nesbit home needs, RW Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electrical can handle it. We offer complete HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance services, as well as plumbing and electrical services. Our HVAC technicians are NATE-certified and experienced with working on all makes and models of AC. Plus, we’re Better Business Bureau Accredited with an A+ rating. So, if you think the AC in your Nesbit home needs repairs, contact RW Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electrical today!
