2 Common Signs Your Air Conditioning Is Not Ready For The Sizzlin' Summer Heat

With summer approaching, you may be planning a getaway to the beach and cookouts with friends and family, but you should also be preparing your home for the upcoming change in temperatures. Considering many parts of the nation will experience large increases in temperatures and humidity during the summer, inspecting your air conditioning system before the season starts can be worthwhile. You may be surprised to learn your system is showing signs that it is in distress and in need of repair before temperatures rise. Here are a few signs that your AC system is not prepared for the sizzlin' summer heat.

Increased Energy Bill

Your monthly energy bill will fluctuate up and down each month depending on various factors. For example, leaving your television on while you sleep a few times in the last couple weeks wastes a great deal of energy. Since half of your home's energy use stems from heating and cooling, running your heat or air conditioning excessively can also increase your bill. However, if you notice your energy bill has increased dramatically over period of few months, your heating and cooling system may be struggling to condition your home.

If your ductwork is damaged, you may experience air loss, which is wasteful, but also reduces your system's ability to condition the indoor air. Lastly, if your air compressor or condenser is not functioning properly, your system will struggle to work, resulting in higher energy bills.

Fortunately, a licensed contractor can inspect your system to determine why your system is struggling to function properly.

Warm Air

You may set your thermostat to a desired temperature, but the system continues to run because only warm air is coming in through the vents. As stated before, this is wasteful and costly, but is also causes a great deal of discomfort for you and your family in the summer heat.

Inspect your condenser and air compressor for visible damage. Twigs, grass, leaves, and other debris can clog these parts, preventing the system from pulling air in, conditioning it, and moving it into the home. Removing this debris will allow air to run freely in and through the system. Check the filters, as well. Clogged filters will prevent cool air from moving into your home easily. Clean or replace the system's filters monthly for effective and efficient air flow.

Your home and family do not have to suffer through the summer heat. With this guide and a licensed contractor's help, your system will be ready for the intense heat of the summer season.