As summer temperatures in Arlington, Texas, soar, the last thing you want is for your air conditioning system to break down in the middle of a heatwave. Not only is it uncomfortable, but it can also be expensive to fix. Fortunately, with regular HVAC maintenance and tune-ups, many common air conditioning issues can be spotted before they turn into major breakdowns.
Here’s how you can spot early signs of trouble and prevent costly repairs with a proactive approach to your AC system.
1. Warm Air Blowing from Vents
If your air conditioner is blowing warm air instead of cool, it’s a clear sign that something’s wrong. A common culprit could be a refrigerant leak, which can prevent your system from cooling efficiently. Low refrigerant levels could also result in your AC running longer than necessary, increasing energy consumption.
What to Do: If this happens, schedule an HVAC maintenance check to identify the cause. Don’t attempt to recharge refrigerant on your own, as improper handling can lead to more significant issues.
2. Increased Energy Bills
One of the most common signs of a failing air conditioner is a sudden spike in your energy bill. If you’ve noticed that your electric costs are higher than usual, even though your usage hasn’t changed, your AC could be working harder than it should.
What to Do: Call a trusted HVAC professional to inspect the system. This could be due to dirty filters, damaged components, or an inefficient system that requires a tune-up. Regular HVAC maintenance can help keep your AC running smoothly, optimizing energy usage.
3. Weak Airflow
Another warning sign is weak or insufficient airflow. If the air blowing through your vents seems weak or uneven, it might indicate a clogged air filter, blocked ducts, or a failing blower fan.
What to Do: Check and replace your air filter if it appears dirty. Regularly cleaning or replacing your filters can help improve airflow and overall system efficiency. If airflow remains weak after filter replacement, it’s time to call a professional.
4. Strange Noises
If you hear strange noises coming from your air conditioner, such as banging, grinding, or squealing, this could indicate a mechanical issue or a component that is wearing out.
What to Do: Don’t ignore these sounds. They may signal something as simple as loose screws or something more serious, such as a failing motor. A quick HVAC maintenance check can help pinpoint and resolve the problem before it escalates.
5. Water Leaks Around the AC Unit
Water pooling around your air conditioner or visible leaks can be a sign of a clogged condensate drain, refrigerant leaks, or a broken pump.
What to Do: Turn off the AC to prevent any further damage and call for HVAC service. A technician can clear the drain or fix the leak before it causes any additional damage to your system.
6. Foul Odors
Unpleasant smells emanating from your AC are not normal. A musty or moldy odor can indicate mold growth in the ducts or around the evaporator coil. A burning smell could suggest a malfunctioning motor or overheating parts.
What to Do: If you detect foul odors, it’s crucial to have your system inspected by a professional. HVAC maintenance and tune-ups can prevent mold buildup and ensure your unit’s internal components are functioning properly.
7. Frequent Cycling On and Off
Your AC should maintain a consistent cycle of cooling, turning on and off as needed. If it starts cycling on and off frequently (short cycling), it could be a sign of an issue with the thermostat, refrigerant levels, or compressor.
What to Do: This issue should not be ignored, as it puts unnecessary strain on the system. Call a technician to inspect and diagnose the problem.
8. Thermostat Malfunctions
If your thermostat is unresponsive or constantly fluctuates in temperature, it could indicate a malfunction. When your thermostat is not properly regulating your home’s temperature, your air conditioner may not work effectively.
What to Do: Check the thermostat settings and try replacing the batteries. If the problem persists, call a professional to inspect the thermostat and its connection to your AC system.
The Importance of Regular HVAC Maintenance and Tune-Ups
At Texas Air Authorities, we recommend regular HVAC maintenance and tune-ups to ensure your air conditioning system is operating at its best year-round. A service contract can help ensure that your system receives routine care, including cleaning, inspecting, and adjusting key components.
Regular tune-ups can extend the life of your equipment, improve efficiency, and reduce the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns. Whether it’s checking refrigerant levels, cleaning coils, or replacing filters, consistent maintenance helps your system run more efficiently and reliably.
Why Choose Texas Air Authorities?
At Texas Air Authorities, we proudly serve the Arlington community and surrounding areas. With over two decades of experience, our NATE-certified technicians are committed to providing the best HVAC service in the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex. We offer same-day appointments, free estimates, and a 1-year warranty on all new equipment.
Our customers are like family, and we take pride in offering top-quality service at a fair price. If you’re concerned about your air conditioning system, contact us today to schedule a tune-up or service. We’ll ensure that your system stays cool all summer long!
Conclusion
By catching problems early with regular HVAC maintenance, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep your home comfortable throughout the hottest months in Arlington, Texas. Don’t wait for the heat to take a toll on your system and get ahead of the game with a professional tune-up today!
Texas Air Authorities is the premier choice for HVAC services in Arlington. With a team of highly trained and certified technicians, we have the expertise to handle all of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning needs. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is unmatched, and we always go above and beyond to ensure that your experience with us is positive. We use only the highest quality parts and equipment to ensure that your HVAC system is running at peak performance. Plus, we offer competitive pricing and flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Choose Texas Air Authorities for all of your HVAC needs in Arlington.
