Like any machine essential to your daily life, air conditioners require regular, preventative maintenance. If you don't want to prematurely replace your unit, tune-ups and inspections make plenty of sense. If these small tasks go ignored you could find yourself with a failing air conditioner. Keeping in mind the average lifespan of an AC unit is around 15 years, it's especially important to keep a close eye on older systems. With the winter months fast approaching, it's time to make sure that your AC and heating system is in top shape to keep your home comfortable inside when it gets cold outside. Scheduling a fall tune-up will help check your system for these three major signs that your AC is on its way out.
Over-Running & Noise
I'm putting over-running and strange noises in the same category because you obviously have to listen to notice either sign. If working effectively, your AC should be able to stop running fairly often. If you're serenaded by the non-stop hum of your AC compressor it's time to call a professional. Somewhere, something is going wrong and seriously hindering your home's cooling process. When it comes to strange noises, if you're hearing bangs, clanks or rattles there could be issues with anything ranging from foreign objects to an unbalanced machine. It's best to let a technician determine the source and then get you back on track.
Warm Condenser & Frosted Pipes
Your AC condenser has a copper line and simply touching it can tell you if you need prompt professional assistance. If the condenser line is warm, you have a Freon shortage, Freon leak or are dealing with compressor failure. On the flip side, cold isn't good either. If there is a layer of ice or frost on the pipes connecting your compressor to your home it could mean a Freon leak, a blockage within the pipes or blockage in the main air duct. In the case of frost, switch the Fan setting on your thermostat to ON and the Cool/Heat switch to OFF to begin defrosting those pipes. While this is taking place, call and schedule an appointment as soon as possible to inspect for possible Freon leaks.
Liquid Spray
When a seal gasket blows, spray or splatters of liquid are visible on your AC. The spray is result of a Freon leak that needs immediate attention. Freon is a controlled hazardous substance that can negatively impact the environment by damaging the ozone layer. If your compressor is left to run with low or depleted Freon it can lead to total failure. Before your system fails you'll being paying extra in energy bills. Losing just 10% of your Freon supplies to a leak will cost you up to 20% more in electricity.
Don't wait until it's too late! Stay up-to-date with your AC's regular maintenance. To keep your home warm this winter, make sure that your AC is running smoothly and efficiently and be on the lookout for the three signs of impending system failure.
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