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How to Tell If Your AC Is About to Fail in the Mesa Heat
Did you know that 93% of homes in Mesa have an extreme Heat Factor©?
So far, approximately 70 days this year have been 90- 100 °.
Another 80 days have been over 100°.
Air conditioners are feeling the burn as well.
The need for cooling is projected to cause an increase in energy consumption for 293 days out of the year.
Having cool air ready is more than a convenience.
It can save you from heat stroke and other related illnesses.
Ensuring your system can handle the heat can be a matter of life and death.
Read on to learn the common signs your AC is about to fail in the Mesa heat and what to do about them.
Limited Airflow
Poor airflow is a significant problem, whether it affects your entire home or a single room.
Check the thermostat and consider turning it down a few degrees.
Open up the electrical panel and reset any tripped circuit breakers.
Clean or replace the air filters.
Those steps are a first line of defense, but they don’t always stop the problem.
If you continue to have limited airflow, it may come from issues such as:
- Clogged filters
- Leaky or collapsed ducts
- Failing fan motors
Blowing Warm Air
The only thing worse in a hot climate than an AC that won’t blow any air is one that blows warm air instead of cool.
That warm air can leave you sweating and spread throughout the house until it’s too warm to be comfortable anywhere.
A few AC maintenance tips can get the temperature headed in the right direction.
Change the fan setting to “auto” so it doesn’t run constantly.
Check for foliage or any other blockages.
Spray it down to remove debris.
If these steps don’t fix the problem, it could be a sign of significant issues such as a compressor failure or refrigerant leak.
Frequent Cycling
Frequent cycling is a sign your AC is about to fail.
If it starts to turn off and on again more often than usual, it may be on the verge of never turning back on.
It’s a sign that it’s struggling to operate correctly.
It keeps cycling to maintain a consistent temperature.
The refrigerant could be low, or there could be problems with the thermostat.
AC airflow may be restricted.
The problem could even be as simple as the unit not being the right size for your home.
Unusual Noises or Odors
Is your AC unit keeping you up all night with unusual sounds?
Pay attention to the type of noise you hear.
A banging or clanking sound hints that a part in your compressor has come loose.
Clicking or ticking indicates loose hardware.
It’s a sealed unit, so you can’t open it to check on its parts.
The only solution is to replace the compressor.
A hissing sound is the result of a refrigerant leak.
Bubbling means it’s slower and that you have more time to react.
Buzzing is a sign of electrical problems.
A tripped circuit is simple enough to fix on your own, but more complex electrical issues require the help of a professional.
A screaming sound warns of malfunctions in the high-pressure sensor.
Turn the unit off and call a professional immediately.
Let your nose do a bit of investigation as well.
Unusual smells are also common warning signs of AC failure.
Musty odors are signs of mold or mildew.
Burning smells indicate electrical problems.
Rotten egg smells could be a sign of a natural gas leak.
Water or Coolant Leaks
Water around the AC is a problem all on its own.
It can lead to water damage and mold growth.
It’s also one of the common signs of AC failure.
The leak isn’t always water, either.
Coolant is a brightly colored liquid, while water is clear.
It’s a toxic substance that you need to get away from.
The most common causes of a leaking AC unit are:
- Blocked or dirty filters
- Clogged drain lines
- Rusted drain pans
- Damaged AC coils
- Improper installation
Certain causes, such as clogged filters, can be dealt with through regular maintenance.
Others, such as damaged coils, require professional help.
It’s essential for preventing AC breakdowns.
Rising Energy Bills
Energy bills are higher than ever, and rates in Arizona have been increasing faster than in any other state.
According to SaveOnEnergy, the state now has the ninth-highest rates in the nation at $161.71 per month.
The increase is usually gradual and minor when your bill exceeds the average.
You might notice a slightly higher rate in the hottest or coolest months.
A rapid, sudden increase in energy bills is a problem for more than just your wallet.
It’s also among the most common and sneakiest signs of AC failure.
It’s more common during warmer seasons when your AC is pushed to the brink, dealing with the heat in a Mesa summer.
High bills show that the unit is being forced to work harder than usual.
It starts using more energy to compensate, and you end up paying the price for it.
Extra heat isn’t the only cause for increasing bills.
An AC unit also may have components that need to be maintained or replaced to work at its best.
Start looking for AC repair solutions as soon as possible.
The earlier you get the issue diagnosed, the less extra money you’ll end up having to pay.
Who to Trust When Your AC Is About to Fail
A failed AC is an emergency in the burning Mesa heat.
There are a few signs to look out for that indicate your AC is about to fail.
They include limited airflow, blowing warm air, frequent cycling, unusual noises or odors, water or coolant leaks, and rising energy bills.
Mark Daniels Air Conditioning and Heating can handle any HVAC issues, including installation, troubleshooting, repairs, preventative maintenance, and more.
We put customers first and always let you know what to expect.
We will tell you when we’ll arrive, what the issue is, and all your options for fixing it.
Request service for your HVAC today.
Looking for Air Conditioning Service in Mesa, AZ?
Choose Mark Daniels Air Conditioning & Heating for expert HVAC services in Mesa. We’re committed to providing reliable maintenance, repairs, and installations to keep your home cool and comfortable all year round.
Call (480) 571-7219 or request service online now!
