5 Signs Your AC Is Working Too Hard

These hot end-of-summer days can push our AC systems to their limits! If your older HVAC unit is struggling to keep up, it usually shows warning signs that it’s time for some maintenance.

Pay attention to these 5 warning signs to avoid a total breakdown! 

1. Short-Cycling: If you notice your system turning on and off more frequently than before, it may be short-cycling. Short cycles can wear down system components and reduce energy efficiency, since each start-up requires a large amount of energy.

2. Rising Energy Bills: If your energy bills have been consistently rising despite nothing changing in your energy usage habits, your system might be working overtime. This could indicate strain on your unit, overdue maintenance, or an internal issue.

3. Warm/Unevenly-Cooled Areas in the House: Are you noticing warm and/or unevenly cooled temperatures around your home? Old ductwork or poor airflow might be the culprit!

4. Long Run Times: Is your system running for a long time without reaching the set temperature? This is the opposite problem of short-cycling, where your system struggles to reach its target temperature and runs continuously. Generally, a system should run for 15-20 minutes at a time or 2-3 times an hour.

5. Strange Noises or Smells: Banging, squealing, rattling, and musty smells are all telltale signs of system strain. Unusual smells could be due to various factors, such as dust accumulation on the furnace, debris trapped in the system, dirty filters or vents, etc.

Why it Matters 

These warning signs aren’t necessarily emergencies, but they’re worth paying attention to because they could signal a looming breakdown. If you notice one or more of these red flags, give your HVAC contractor a call. It may be a great time to schedule a tune-up and make sure your system can finish the summer strong! 

In the Charlottesville, VA area? Give us a call here at W.E. Brown for all of your HVAC, plumbing, and electrical needs.