For homeowners, an inefficient air conditioner is nothing more than a vacuum that drains money needlessly from your household budget. Day after day, your home cooling system churns away, struggling to maintain a comfortable environment for you and your family. Even if your ac system is relatively new, it may not be operating in the most efficient manner.
It’s not always easy to recognize an inefficient air conditioner. In fact, if your home is cool and your family isn’t complaining, you may assume everything is just fine. But is it? Could it be better? And could you actually cut your home cooling bills by making your inefficient air conditioner operate a little more efficiently?
Knowing the signs of an inefficient air conditioner won’t just help keep your home cool, but can lower your power bills, and extend the life of your home cooling system. Your AC may be working a lot harder than it needs to, which can cause certain parts and components to wear out faster, and, if not corrected, could end up costing you plenty in repair or replacement costs. Consult the following checklist of signs and symptoms of an inefficient air conditioner.
Increased Costs
An inefficient AC system works harder to maintain cool air in your home. The increased pull on power will be evident in your electric bills. If you notice a jump in your usage, check with a home cooling professional and schedule an inspection to get the most out of your AC, without taxing your system.
Cycling More Frequently
Your thermostat is the “brains” behind your home cooling system. If your system is cycling on and off with apparent frequency, it may be a sign that your thermostat needs replaced. Dust and everyday usage can wear on your thermostat’s internal mechanism. Another reason for frequent cycling of your AC could be related to your compressor. In order to get the utmost in efficiency out of your air conditioner, all components must work together.
Ice on Compressor
Ice buildup on your AC unit is a sure sign you need to contact a professional. Ice build-up can be caused by a leak in your AC’s coolant, which is common in older units. Damage to your coils can also cause ice build-up on your AC unit. If you haven’t replaced your filter in a while, that could be the issue. A clogged filter can interrupt the airflow and circulation, causing your system to overheat. This will also cause ice to appear on the exterior unit. A professional HVAC technician can find the cause of your ice build-up and make the necessary repairs to ensure efficient performance going forward.
Unusual Sounds
All home appliances have their own set of sounds. You’ve probably grown accustomed to the sounds that come from regular operation of your cooling system. Anytime your AC turns on with an unusual rattle, banging sound, clanking or something out of the ordinary, you should shut down your system immediately. Unusual sounds could be caused by broken components, such as fan blades, or the like, or something electrical. Schedule an inspection whenever your system makes an unusual sound.
A sure way to guarantee your AC’s efficiency and prolong its life is by scheduling regular maintenance with a professional heating and cooling technician. Some of the more subtle signs of impending repairs are only apparent to the trained eye. With seasonal maintenance inspections, you’ll catch small problems before they warrant big repairs. You’ll also know that your unit is tuned, cleaned and ready to keep you and your family comfortable all summer long. Contact Snyder Heating & Air Conditioning today to take care of all your air conditioing needs.
