5 Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Repairs

The summer season is rough here in Redding. That is why it is so important to have a reliable air conditioner in the house. With this system, you can at least trust in the fact that your home will remain a safe haven from the heat.

But what if your AC isn’t up to the task?

If you are noticing something is making it harder or even impossible for your cooling system to do its job, then it is time to reach out to us for central heating repair or air conditioner service in Redding, CA. The true cost of ignoring HVAC repairs can add up quickly when small problems are left unchecked, especially during extreme weather seasons.
Here are the warning signs of trouble that you should know.

Understanding Your Air Conditioning System

Your air conditioning system is a vital component of your home’s comfort and safety. It’s essential to understand how it works to ensure it runs efficiently and effectively. A typical air conditioning system consists of a compressor, condenser coils, evaporator coils, and a refrigerant. The compressor compresses the refrigerant, which then flows through the condenser coils, releasing heat to the outside air. The cooled refrigerant then passes through the evaporator coils, absorbing heat from the indoor air. Proper installation of HVAC units is critical for their efficiency and longevity. This process is repeated continuously to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.

Signs of a Failing Central Heating System

A failing central heating system can be a significant inconvenience, especially during the cold winter months. Recognizing the signs of a failing system early can help you avoid costly repairs or even a complete heating system replacement. Here are some common signs to look out for:

• Increased Energy Bills: If you notice a sudden spike in your energy bills without a corresponding increase in usage, it could be a sign that your central heating system is not working efficiently. An inefficient system has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, leading to higher energy consumption.
• Cold Spots: Uneven heating in your home, where some areas are noticeably colder than others, can indicate that your heating system is not distributing warm air evenly. This could be due to issues with your ductwork, a malfunctioning thermostat, or other underlying problems.
• Leaks: Water or refrigerant leaks around your heating system are a clear sign of trouble. Leaks can cause significant damage to your home and indicate that your heating system is failing and in need of immediate attention.
• Strange Noises: Unusual noises such as banging, clanking, or hissing coming from your heating system can signal that something is wrong. These noises often indicate mechanical issues that require professional repair services.
• Reduced Airflow: If the airflow from your vents is weak or reduced, it could be a sign that your heating system is not working correctly. This could be due to a clogged filter, blocked ducts, or a failing blower motor.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to contact a professional for heating system repairs to prevent further damage and ensure your home stays warm and comfortable.

Causes of Central Heating System Failure

Understanding the causes of central heating system failure can help you take preventive measures to keep your system running smoothly. Here are some common factors that can lead to heating system failure:

• Lack of Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and efficiency of your heating system. Neglecting routine check-ups can lead to minor issues becoming major problems, ultimately causing system failure.
• Age: Like any other appliance, heating systems have a finite lifespan. Older systems are more prone to breakdowns and inefficiencies. If your system is over 15 years old, it might be time to consider a new heating system.
• Poor Installation: An improperly installed heating system can lead to numerous issues, including reduced efficiency and premature failure. It’s essential to have your system installed by qualified professionals to ensure it operates correctly.
• Corrosion: Corrosion can damage the components of your heating system, leading to leaks and mechanical failures. Regular inspections can help identify and address corrosion before it causes significant damage.
• Power Outages: Frequent power outages can cause your heating system to malfunction or fail. Installing a surge protector can help protect your system from electrical damage.

By understanding these causes, you can take proactive steps to maintain your heating system and avoid unexpected failures.

5 Clear Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Immediate Repairs

Having issues staying cool in your house? If the thermostat is set correctly, then you may have a bigger problem on your hands with your HVAC system. Watch out for these indicators to figure out if you need to call us for service. Just like with your cooling system, recognizing early symptoms with your heater can help you avoid major central heating repairs down the line and keep your home comfortable when temperatures drop.

1. Strange AC Noises: When to Call for Repairs: If you’ve spent a decent amount of time in your home, you likely know which noises are normal from your AC. Beyond this, however, new and worrying sounds are worth a call to a technician to check things out. This applies to heating systems too—strange sounds from your heater may point to failing components that need immediate attention. Don’t ignore sounds like ongoing clicking, hissing, screeching, or rattling.
2. Weak Cooling: Signs of an Underperforming AC: This is a big one. An air conditioner that isn’t cooling your house properly is one that needs to get checked out ASAP. You maybe have a fan problem, a refrigerant leak, or another issue that needs to be resolved.
3. Short Cycling: What It Means for Your AC: The AC turns on and you breathe a sigh of relief, expecting cool air to flood the room. The problem is that you only feel a slight puff of cool air before the system shuts off after only a few minutes. This is referred to as short cycling and is a big issue that requires prompt, expert service to address it before it costs you your entire air conditioner.
4. AC Leaks: What That Fluid Might Be Telling You: Your AC uses refrigerant that is cycled through a closed-loop system to cool things down. There is no water involved, aside from the condensation that is collected and drained outside of the house. If you notice water or fluid leaking from the indoor or outdoor parts of the AC, it is not normal and should prompt a call to our experts.
5. Airflow out of the air handlers or vents is very weak. You know that your AC is on and running but you can barely feel any air entering the rooms. Whether weak airflow is plaguing one area of the house or the entire home, you should get your AC checked out. This may indicate a clogged filter or leaky ductwork.

A failing central heating system, especially if it’s not a high efficiency heating system, can be a significant inconvenience, especially during the cold winter months. If you are having issues getting your air conditioner to keep your home cool, don’t hesitate to call us! You shouldn’t have to sweat your way through summer.

Contact the experts at Redding Heating & Air for your next AC repair. Giving You the Comfort of Your Home.