Category: air conditioner failure

5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner

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Signs It's Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner

A malfunctioning air conditioner isn’t necessarily a broken one in need of replacement. How can you tell if your air conditioner needs replacement instead of repairs if the signs are so similar? There are a few factors that can help you make that discernment. Here are 5 signs it’s time to replace your air conditioner:

 

1.    Your AC Isn’t Blowing

 

If your air is blowing but not very hard, then this is a good sign that your unit just needs to be repaired. The repair could be something really simple, one that you could do yourself, like replacing your air filter. If your air conditioner isn’t blowing air at all, however, then something is very wrong.

 

2.    Your AC Air Isn’t Cold

 

It’s possible that your air conditioner could be blowing very well—but the air is blowing is hot, not cold. This could be a sign that your refrigerant is out, but if you’ve already replaced your refrigerant and it’s still not blowing, then one of two things is going on:

 

Either you have a leak in your air conditioner than can be fixed, or the leak is too severe to be repaired, so your AC unit needs to be replaced. Unfortunately, the only way to tell for sure is to have your unit inspected by a licensed HVAC specialist.

 

3.    Your AC Is Making Strange Sounds

 

An air conditioner can be pretty noisy, especially if it’s an older unit, but you can tell right away when something is wrong. If the constant background noise (that usually lulls you to sleep at night) suddenly sounds like banging and clanging, then something is amiss.

 

Some small parts could be loose and rattling around in there. If you catch the noise early enough, then this could need just a simple repair. However, if you’ve let the noises go on for too long, then you could have irreparable damages in your unit, which will require a replacement.

 

4.    Your AC Needs Frequent Repairs

 

We saved this sign it’s time to replace your air conditioner for last because it’s the biggest give away. If you have had to pay for more than two repairs in the recent past (say, within the last year), then it’s time to have your AC unit replaced.

 

This does not include simple repairs that you can perform yourself, like replacing your air filter or ensuring your vents are open and uncovered. It also doesn’t include upgrading your thermostat or general maintenance. Repairs include fixing refrigerant leaks, replacing worn out parts, and anything else that requires the distinct assistance of an HVAC expert.

 

5.    You Googled, “Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner”

 

If you found this article because you consulted your search engine about signs of repair vs. replacement, then that’s a pretty good sign that it’s time to replace your air conditioner. In that case, consult with the experts at Weeks Service Company. We can inspect your unit and determine next steps together.

The Best Time to Buy an HVAC System

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The Best Time to Buy an HVAC System

Purchasing a new HVAC system is a big investment. Not only will it be with you for the unforeseeable future, but it’ll also cost a larger sum of money than you’re used to spending in your everyday life. Buying a new unit will require a little more research, which includes researching the best time to buy an HVAC system. Here’s how you know it’s the right time to purchase a new AC unit.

 

When the Deals Are Best

 

The best time to buy an HVAC system is when the deals are best. It’s no secret that manufacturers and HVAC companies (hi!) offer different rates based on supply and demand. You know it’s the right time to buy a new AC unit if the deal is within your budget. (Of course, we recommend doing your research about the unit itself too. Just because the price is right doesn’t mean the unit is right for your cooling needs. A licensed HVAC technician can help you make an informed decision.)

 

At the Turn of a New Season

 

Generally, homeowners only consider their cooling needs when the outside temperature is unbearably high. The trouble here is that if you wait until the need for a new unit is dire, then you’ll likely also be paying high prices. The best time to buy an HVAC system is at the turn of a new season—so replace your air conditioner in the spring and replace your heater in the fall.

 

Before It’s an Emergency

 

Similar to our previous point, homeowners also don’t really think about their cooling needs until they become an emergency—in other words, the AC unit isn’t cooling at all the outside temperature is 90 or higher. Because lots of people are making emergency calls to HVAC companies during this time, there will be a delay in installation (though, of course, the company wants to install the unit as quickly as possible). You can end your suffering before it starts this summer by buying a new HVAC system before it’s an emergency.

 

When Your Old Unit Won’t Cut It Anymore

 

Your AC unit shows signs of deterioration long before it goes ka-put. You won’t be able to recognize the signs because you haven’t been trained to (unless you’re an HVAC expert yourself, in which case we’re sorry for assuming). You should be scheduling annual AC tune-ups so that a specialist can assess the health of your unit. They’ll their give it a little love to ensure its longevity, recommend and then make repairs, or let you know that it’s time to get a new one.

 

Need a New HVAC System? Call Weeks Service Co.

 

If you’re in need of a new HVAC unit or you think you might be, it’s time to call the experts at Weeks Service Company. We can help you make an informed decision, and we can clue you in to our latest deals and specials. Call now to speak with one of our friendly representatives.

 

4 Signs of Air Conditioner Failure

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signs of air conditioner failure

You’ve probably thought about it— the day your trusted air conditioner finally gives out and you have to find a replacement. It’s a day you probably aren’t looking forward to because you most likely don’t want to deal with the frustration of finding a new AC system and getting it installed. However, you can make that dreaded day a little easier for you by being prepared. And the first step to being prepared for a total AC breakdown is by knowing about the signs of air conditioner failure. The team at Weeks Service Company is here to tell you how to know if your AC is failing, so you don’t have to carry on with a malfunctioning air conditioner that takes up your time and money.

 1. AC Is Not Blowing Cold Air

Your AC could be blowing warm air for a variety of reasons such as the ones listed below. You can fix these problems with the help of a professional. However, if your AC is consistently doing this, even after you consult a professional, your air conditioner might be signaling its incoming end.

  • Your Evaporator Coil is Freezing Up

A dirty evaporator coil or a dirty air filter can lead to your evaporator coil freezing up. To solve this problem, turn off your unit, replace the air filter if necessary and wait for the evaporator coil to thaw. If the freezing persists afterwards, get in touch with a professional.

  • There Is A Refrigerant Leak

Refrigerant is an important coolant present in your AC system which plays a vital role in cooling your home. If your AC is blowing warm air, there is a chance it might be low on refrigerant due to leakage. You will need to call a professional to refill the refrigerant in your AC system as refrigerant can be hazardous.

If your AC uses the R-22 refrigerant, it’s important for you to know that R-22 is being phased out (banned) because it is harmful to the ozone-layer. By next year, R-22’s production and import will become illegal in the United States. If you have been considering replacing your AC, now is the time to act.

  • Your Thermostat is On Heat

Your AC might be blowing warm air because of something as simple as your thermostat being left on heat. Check your thermostat to make sure it is on “cool” instead of “heat”. In addition, make sure the AC is set to “Automatic” instead of “Fan.”

2. Low Airflow

Low airflow coming from your AC could mean many things. It’s important not to jump to conclusions before trying everything out. Low air flow could be attributed to a dirty filter that just needs to be replaced. Low airflow could also be a sign of any leaks present in your AC’s ductwork. Sealing ductwork can be a dangerous task due to their hard-to-reach locations in the basement and attic, which is why it is best to contact a professional to inspect your ductwork.

Low airflow can also be a sign of a problematic compressor. The compressor in your AC system pressurizes the refrigerant to be pushed toward the condenser from the evaporator coil, changing refrigerant from hot, pressurized gas to cool liquid. Contact a professional you trust who can advise you on what you can do to deal with a malfunctioning compressor.

3. Recurring AC Breakdowns

This one is a no-brainer. If your AC is constantly blowing warm air, has low air flow or is consistently low on refrigerant, your AC might be signaling that something is failing. Recurring AC breakdowns could be a sign of poor maintenance, wrong AC size or poor installation. While you might need the help of a professional in finding the right AC size and proper installation, you can avoid frequent breakdowns by scheduling annual HVAC tune ups, changing your AC filter every 3 months at minimum, and checking in on your outdoor condenser once in a while.

4. Excessive Noise

Excessive noise is also one of the signs of air conditioner failure. A hissing or gurgling sound might indicate a leak in the refrigerant lines, while rattling might suggest that there is a loose item stuck within your AC’s fan. Squealing or screaming might be a sign of a problem with the compressor or an issue with the belt that connects the fan and motor.

Need A Professional? Contact Weeks Service Company!

There are many other signs of an air conditioner failing. Sometimes it’s just because your AC is too old and deteriorated and needs replacing. When you’re worried there’s something wrong with your AC, it’s important to contact a professional you trust who can give you sound advice. If you’re looking for experts in the League City area, look no further than Weeks Service Company! Give us a call at 281-738-1362 or fill out a service request form on our website.