As temperatures climb and summer edges closer, your air conditioner becomes one of the most important systems in your home. But is it ready to take on the heat? Many homeowners wait until their AC breaks down before calling for service.
Instead, we recommend a proactive approach that can prevent costly repairs and keep your home cool and comfortable all season long. Scheduling a seasonal AC tune-up ensures your system is running efficiently and reliably, but how do you know it’s time? Here are five clear signs your AC needs a tune-up before summer arrives.
1. Your Energy Bills Are on the Rise
Have you noticed a sudden spike in your electricity bills, even though your usage hasn’t changed? An underperforming AC system often has to work harder to maintain your desired indoor temperature, which leads to increased energy consumption.
Dust buildup, dirty coils, clogged filters, or a failing component could all be to blame. During a professional tune-up, your technician will inspect and clean key components to restore your system’s efficiency. The result? Lower energy bills and better performance when you need it most.
2. Strange Noises During Operation
A healthy air conditioner should run relatively quietly. If your unit starts making new or unusual noises, such as grinding, banging, hissing, or squealing, it’s time to schedule a tune-up. These sounds could indicate anything from loose components to a failing blower motor or even a refrigerant leak.
Ignoring the noise won’t make it go away, and in many cases, continuing to run the system can cause more serious (and expensive) damage. A seasonal tune-up catches these problems early, so you don’t get stuck in the heat waiting on emergency repairs.
3. Weak or Inconsistent Airflow
Are some rooms in your home cooler than others? Is the air coming from your vents barely noticeable? Weak airflow is a sign your AC system is struggling, possibly due to a dirty air filter, blocked ducts, or a worn-out blower motor.
It could also mean your evaporator coil is dirty or frozen, both of which restrict proper airflow. During a tune-up, your technician will check airflow and address any blockages or component issues. Restoring strong, even airflow ensures your system distributes cool air effectively throughout your home.
4. Thermostat Inaccuracy or Unresponsiveness
If your home doesn’t seem to match the temperature displayed on your thermostat, or your system cycles on and off frequently, it could be a sign that your thermostat isn’t communicating properly with your AC.
Thermostat issues can lead to energy waste and poor comfort levels. As part of your AC tune-up, a technician can test and recalibrate your thermostat, or recommend an upgrade to a smart thermostat for improved temperature control and energy savings.
5. Signs of a Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is essential to your AC’s cooling process, and a leak can prevent your system from working properly. Watch for signs like warm air blowing from vents, hissing sounds, or ice forming on the coils. Not only does a refrigerant leak reduce efficiency, but it can also damage your compressor, a costly component to replace.
A tune-up includes checking refrigerant levels and inspecting for leaks. If an issue is found, your technician can make repairs and recharge the system to restore proper cooling function.
Contact Scaran today to schedule an appointment with our professionals for your AC service solution.
