Early Warning Signs of AC Failure from Harts Plumbers
As summer heat grips the Pacific Northwest, homeowners can find themselves in dire situations when their air conditioning units begin to fail. Harts Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC Technicians, established in Tacoma in 2013, are experts in helping residents maintain comfortable indoor climates. Richard Hart, co-owner, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the early signs of air conditioning failures, particularly as the demand for cooling rises.
Signs Your AC Unit is Struggling
Harts warns that there are specific indicators that can signal a potential air conditioning disaster. Identifying these early on can help avoid discomfort during extreme heat waves:
1.
Weak or Warm Airflow: If the air flowing from your vents feels weak or warm rather than cool, it can indicate that there’s an issue. Common culprits include clogged air filters and accumulations of dirt and debris in the system. Hart stresses that homeowners should regularly change their air filters to ensure optimal airflow.
2.
Higher Utility Bills: During periods of extreme weather, utility bills can rise sharply. However, if homeowners notice spikes in their energy costs without an increase in usage compared to the previous year, there may be an efficiency issue. Aside from dirty filters, older or clogged systems may be struggling to keep up with demand.
3.
Unusual Noises: AC units should operate quietly, producing soft whirring sounds. If you hear grinding, banging, or squealing noises, it’s likely that your system is equipped with worn components that could fail under stress from high summer temperatures.
4.
Frequent Cycling: If your unit seems to turn on and off more frequently than before, it could be a sign of problems with the thermostat or the compressor, which may require professional attention.
Inspection Recommendations
Ideally, Harts recommends having an air conditioning inspection conducted during spring to address any potential issues before peak summer heat arrives. However, Richard Hart states, "There's no bad time to have an AC unit inspection. If there are signs your air conditioning is underperforming, it's crucial to bring in a professional immediately to check for and fix any issues. Don’t get caught in sweltering heat with a malfunctioning system."
Harts Plumbers, Electricians & HVAC Technicians provide comprehensive inspections and maintenance services. Their commitment is to help homeowners avoid uncomfortable situations by ensuring their air conditioning systems are functioning effectively.
About Harts Plumbers, Electricians & HVAC Technicians
Founded in 2013 by Richard Hart and Dan Hartsough, Harts Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC Technicians offer a range of home services including plumbing and electrical work across the Seattle, Tacoma, and Olympia areas. With a stellar 4.9/5 rating on Google and the prestigious Silver Award for Electrical Service in the 2023 Best of the PNW, customers are assured of quality service. Interested homeowners can reach them at (253) 470-8766 or visit
hartsservices.com for more information.
To learn more about maintaining your air conditioning system and how to spot the signs of potential failure, check out Hart's blog post
here.