Air conditioning problems are much more common during the summer, when a cooling system is under a lot more work stress. That stress increases wear and tear on the system, making it more likely to break down in a number of different ways. Hopefully, you’ve already had a professional check out your air conditioner this year to make sure it’s in top condition. Even if you have, though, you still need to make sure that you are watching and listening for any additional signs that your air conditioner is malfunctioning. One of the most obvious signs that an air conditioner is not working properly is if it starts to make odd noises during operation. The following are some common noises that indicate a problem with your air conditioning system.
Grinding
The air handler is the part of your air conditioning system that circulates air throughout the home while the system is running. Inside the air handler motor are a number of lubricated bearings, which are meant to lower the amount of friction placed on the motor. While the bearings do a good job, they don’t last forever. As the bearings wear down, the friction on the system increases. Eventually, it will reach a point where the system will start to make a loud grinding sound. If you hear that sound, it’s time to replace the bearings. If they aren’t replaced in time, the motor might overheat and burn out.
Hissing
If your air conditioner is making a sound like the air being let out of a tire, you probably have a leak in your refrigerant line. That sound is from air bubbles forming in the line. Refrigerant leaks are a serious issue since the system relies on the same supply of refrigerant throughout its lifespan. As the refrigerant level in the air conditioner declines, the system’s cooling ability will decline as well. Eventually, the refrigerant level will drop to a point that the air conditioner will break down entirely. So if you hear this noise or notice fluid dripping from your air conditioner, it’s a good idea to call for repairs.
Short Cycling
Short cycling is when your air conditioner turns itself on and off multiple times in a short period without completing a full cooling cycle. This is a serious issue, often caused by electrical trouble in the system. Short cycling cuts into the air conditioner’s ability to cool the home properly, since it can’t complete a full cycle. That’s not the worst of it, though. Longer periods of short cycling rapidly increase the amount of wear and tear the system suffers over a short period of time. The longer the air conditioner is allowed to short cycle, the more likely it will be to develop further issues. Make sure that you have a professional check out your air conditioner as soon as possible if it’s short cycling.
Desert Suns Heating & Cooling provides comprehensive AC repair services in Rio Rancho, FL. If you need air conditioning repair services, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our professionals.