Summer is here, which means homes across the United States are running their air conditioning systems. However, not every AC system runs as optimally as it should. Higher temperatures means it’s time to have your air conditioning system inspected to ensure it’s running the best it can. Even newer HVAC systems can experience issues throughout the seasons, so it’s important for every homeowner to consider an AC inspection.
But how does a homeowner know when it’s time to have the HVAC checked? Below are 4 tell-tale signs that it’s time for an inspection.
Your Energy Bills Have Increased
If you’ve noticed a sudden spike in your energy bills, it could be due to your air conditioning system working overtime. An inspection can help to determine if your unit is the culprit, and if so, what needs to be done to fix the issue. Once you begin running your AC, keep an eye on your electricity bill. If you notice a sudden spike, call a technician. Excessive electricity use tends to mean something is broken with the system.
Your AC Unit is Making Strange Noises
If your air conditioning unit starts making strange noises, it could be a sign that something is wrong. Common sounds to listen out for include hissing, clicking, or banging. If you hear any of these noises, shut off your system and call an inspection service right away. The sooner you can have a qualified technician look into it, the less damage your system will sustain. There’s a possibility you’ll need to replace your system, but you should exhaust all other options first and a technician will advise you on what to do.
Your Home Isn’t Staying Cool
One of the most obvious signs that your AC needs an inspection is if your home isn’t staying cool. If you’ve cranked up the AC and it’s still not cooling off your home throughout the day, there could be an issue with the unit itself. It could be low on Freon, or there could be a bigger problem with the motor or electric panel in the system. In any case, it’s best to have a professional take a look and determine what is going on.
The AC Unit is Running Constantly
Finally, if your AC unit seems to be running constantly without ever really shutting off, that’s another sign that something might be wrong. This is especially true if the AC is running all of the time, but your home isn’t getting any cooler. It could simply be that your unit is too small for the space it’s cooling or if something is malfunctioning in the AC itself.
Stay Cool
The last thing you want is to be sitting in a 90-degree home with a dysfunctional HVAC system. If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s time to have your air conditioning system inspected by a professional. By doing so, you can rest assured that your system is in good working condition and won’t break down when you need it most, right in the middle of the summer.
