Signs Your Heating and AC Unit Needs Repair Fort Worth, TX

Signs Your Heating and AC Unit Needs Repair Fort Worth, TX

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Home air conditioning is the best way to keep your property cool and comfortable in warmer weather. A well-maintained unit should work effectively even in very hot conditions. One Hour HVAC in Fort Worth, TX can advise you on the best way to keep your AC functioning well.

If your system isn’t working as well as it used to, it may be time to call in a heating and AC repair professional to diagnose and fix the problem. Here are some of the key signs you should look out for.

1. Your Unit Is Blowing Hot Air

One of the most common problems with AC units is blowing hot air, which is the opposite of what you want when temperatures rise. This can have various causes and needs a heating and AC repair specialist to diagnose.

Blowing hot air often indicates a problem with the compressor. If this is caused by an issue with the capacitor or a blown fuse, this should be quick and relatively cheap to fix. However, if the refrigerant is leaking, this could be more expensive and time-consuming to repair.

2. Unpleasant Smells

Apart from making your home smell bad, a stinky air conditioning unit is concerning as it can be a sign of mold growth, pests or burnt electrical insulation. You should contact a Fort Worth, TX heating and AC repair technician as soon as possible, as these could pose a danger to your family.

3. Moisture Around the Unit

If your AC unit is leaking water or forming ice, you should book a heating and AC repair right away. This can be a sign of a blocked or broken drain tube or a refrigerant leak. Don’t put off dealing with the issue, as delaying can lead to much bigger problem. Scraping ice off the unit yourself is dangerous and should never be attempted.

4. High Electricity Bills

If you notice your electricity bills spiking and there’s no obvious explanation, this could indicate that your air conditioning isn’t working as effectively as it used to. A heating and AC repair can get your unit working more efficiently and help lower your bills.

5. Unusual Noises

Your AC unit should run quietly if it’s working properly. When homeowners in Fort Worth, TX report strange grinding, banging or squeaking noises coming from their AC, this is a sign of a mechanical issue. These noises can be caused by loose or unlubricated parts, debris inside the unit or a problem with the motor. You should book a repair as soon as possible to prevent further damage and a more expensive repair or replacement job in the long run.

6. Uneven Temperatures

If some parts of your home are being cooled more effectively than others, this could point to a blockage in the system’s ducts. Although clearing the ducts is part of normal AC maintenance, regular blockages indicate a problem with the system.

Can I Fix My AC Myself?

Many homeowners are concerned about the cost of heating and AC repair and want to fix the problem themselves. If you’re experiencing any of the above problems with your AC, it’s a good idea to replace the filter and see if this solves the issue. As a rule of thumb, you should replace the filter every three months unless you have been advised otherwise by a heating and AC repair specialist. If you have pets, you may need to do this more often. It only takes 5 minutes and can save you time and money calling out an AC technician unnecessarily.

Should I Replace My AC Unit?

Generally, you should expect an air conditioning unit to last for around 10 years. With proper maintenance, it may last longer than that.

However, some AC units will need to be replaced earlier than this. You’re more likely to have to replace your unit sooner if it wasn’t installed correctly, you have the incorrect unit for the size of your home or you haven’t carried out regular maintenance. If you notice the following signs, it may be time to buy a new unit:

  • Your AC breaks down frequently. If you’re having your AC repaired several times a year, you may save money in the long term by replacing it altogether
  • Your electricity bills are consistently higher despite repairing your unit
  • Your home feels humid and muggy
  • You’ve changed the size of your home, for example by extending or remodeling

How Can I Avoid an AC Breakdown?

By properly maintaining your AC unit, you can help to avoid costly heating and AC repair bills. Failing to maintain the filters, coils and fins inside your unit will cause it to become less efficient and increase the amount of energy it takes to run. You should book a maintenance appointment with your local heating and AC repair professional every 12 months. Make sure you:

  • Clean or replace your air conditioner filters at least every 3 months
  • Keep the area around your unit free from debris
  • Check and clean the evaporator coil annually
  • Use a ‘fin comb’ to straighten bent coil fins
  • Clear the drain channels occasionally using a wire
  • Check the seal between the window and your AC unit
  • Cover or store your unit in the winter

The Bottom Line

If you keep your AC well-maintained, you can avoid unnecessary repairs. However, if you notice any of these warning signs, book a heating and AC repair as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your system and get it back to good working order. The experienced technicians at One Hour Air Conditioning and Heating in Fort Worth, TX can help you with all aspects of air conditioner maintenance including repair and replacement.