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13
When's the Last Time You Had Your AC Serviced?
You probably don't give your air conditioner much thought during the winter months. Up here in the Twin Cities, there's no real need for air conditioning for about eight months out of the year. But when summer comes around, it's important that your AC is ready to roll.
Signs You Need Air Conditioner Maintenance
It's best to have your AC unit serviced regularly to prevent major issues, but if your air conditioner is struggling, it will let you know in any number of ways. These are the signs that your air conditioner is in need of attention:
- Limited air flow - If you notice that little or no air is coming through your vents, this can be one of the most obvious signs that something is amiss. It could be as simple as a clogged air filter, or it may indicate a more serious issue with either the compressor or the air ducts.
- Spikes in utility cost - It's normal for electric bills to go up at the beginning of summer as you start to use your AC more. But if you see a big jump in your utility cost that doesn't correspond to a change in season, it could be due to an HVAC issue causing a decrease in efficiency.
- Unusual sounds - If you live with an air conditioner long enough, you'll start to get used to its usual sounds. That's why, when you start to hear a new, unidentified noise, it can be quite alarming. Depending on the specific noise—clicking, crackling, bubbling, gurgling, clanging, banging, squealing, scraping—any number of issues could be to blame. In any case, if you start hearing a sound from your AC that you've never heard before, it's wise to give your HVAC technician a call.
- Malfunctioning thermostat - Your thermostat is like the brain of your HVAC system. If your air conditioner doesn't turn on, or turns on for only short periods of time before shutting off, a thermostat issue may be to blame.
- Unpleasant odors - When the air blowing through your vents is accompanied by an unexpected odor, consider it a warning sign. A musty smell could indicate an issue with mold or moisture somewhere in your ductwork, which likely means mold spores are being blown into your home. Even more serious is a burning smell, which may be related to a problem with the electrical wiring, or the insulation around it.
When to Repair or Replace Your Air Conditioner
If possible, it's generally better to repair your AC unit than replace it. Occasional repairs, while inconvenient, are normal. But if your air conditioner continues to need frequent repairs, is constantly breaking down, and routinely fails to cool your home properly, it might be time to consider a replacement.
It's also important to keep in mind that most air conditioning issues can be avoided through routine preventative maintenance. The lifespan of a typical central AC unit is 15 to 20 years, and maintenance is crucial to keeping your unit healthy for that long.
Air conditioning units should be serviced by a professional every year, at the beginning of the cooling season. If you have a central HVAC, twice a year is best—once in the spring, and once in the fall. If you do that, and keep up with regular monthly air filter changes, your AC should keep you cool and happy for many years.
If you're looking for Minneapolis homes for sale, or looking for Saint Paul homes for sale, it's also important to take the health of the HVAC system into account. Call today to learn more about how our REALTORS® can help!
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