Whether your air conditioner serves a home or business, your unit has a big job to do – fighting the Florida heat. If your indoor space feels warmer than usual, your unit might be losing the battle this summer.
While residential and commercial air conditioners differ in size and setup, their occasional malfunctions are often very similar. If your unit experiences any of these issues this summer, it’s time to call an HVAC professional.
1. Warm Airflow
The most obvious sign of trouble in your AC system is warm air blowing during a cooling cycle. When you feel warm air flowing through the vents, first check the thermostat to confirm it’s set to cooling mode, as this is usually the easiest and most common fix.
If your thermostat is set to cool and warm air is still blowing, a larger issue is at play. Contact your local HVAC professional to check for restricted airflow or compressor malfunction.
2. Unpleasant Odors
Do you turn on your AC and immediately wonder, “What’s that smell?” Foul smells coming from your AC unit indicate a number of problems, such as mildew growth, a burning electrical component, or even a dead animal in the ductwork. All these issues require a trained HVAC technician to inspect, clean, and repair your unit.
3. Frequent Cycles
Your air conditioner routinely goes through cooling cycles, turning on and off as it cools your space. But even on the hottest days of the year, the unit shouldn’t cycle on and off constantly.
Short cycling indicates a problem with your AC unit’s ability to cool air, causing it to shut down before the cooling cycle is complete. If you notice your unit cutting off shortly after turning on, contact your local HVAC professional to schedule a service visit.
4. Unusual Noises
It’s typical for both residential and commercial HVAC units to make a low hum when running. If your unit begins making more than background noise, it’s time to schedule a service call.
Rattling could indicate a loose part, while whistling usually means low airflow. Loud, sudden sounds also signal serious issues with your cooling system and should be investigated by an HVAC professional.
5. Higher Energy Bills
Cooling a home or business during Florida summers is a necessary expense. It’s normal for energy bills to increase during the hotter months, but a significant increase in energy usage indicates that your AC is working too hard to cool your space.
Poor maintenance is the main culprit for overworked AC units. Dirty air filters, clogged ducts and drains, and low refrigerant levels can all cause your unit to work too hard and use more energy than necessary. These issues and more can be caught during regular preventive maintenance, ensuring your AC system runs efficiently and ultimately lowering your energy bills.
DDI is your local HVAC professional!
If any of these issues sound familiar, your residential or commercial unit needs service from an HVAC professional. Regular maintenance by a certified technician can prevent or catch many small issues before they become expensive emergencies. Contact our team of professionals to schedule your preventive maintenance visit!