Atlanta Air Conditioning Services

Does My Air Conditioner Need Repairs?

Like any appliance, air conditioners can develop issues over time, even if they receive consistent maintenance. Recognizing the early warning signs that your air conditioner may need repairs can help prevent costly and disruptive breakdowns. The sooner you get in touch and get your cooling system professional attention, the better! 

It may be time to request our Atlanta air conditioning services if you notice any of the following problems:

• Insufficient cooling. One of the earliest and most obvious signs that your air conditioner may need repairs is a noticeable decrease in cooling performance. If the airflow is weak or not cool enough despite a cool temperature setting, there could be an issue with the compressor or refrigerant levels.
• Unusual noises. Air conditioners typically operate with a low hum, so if you start hearing strange grinding, squealing, or clanking sounds, something is likely wrong. These noises can indicate problems ranging from loose parts to more severe mechanical issues.
• Foul odors. Musty or burning smells emanating from your air conditioner are not normal. Musty odors could signal mold growth inside the ducts, while a burning smell might indicate wiring problems. Both issues should be addressed by a professional as soon as possible.
• Frequent cycling. While it's normal for your air conditioner to turn on more frequently in hot weather, constant cycling on and off can indicate underlying problems. These potential issues can include a malfunctioning thermostat, low refrigerant levels, or a clogged filter.
• High humidity levels. An effective air conditioner should regulate the humidity indoors. If you notice higher levels of humidity while the unit is running, it might be due to an issue with the evaporator coil or a broken blower fan.
• Water leaks. Puddles of water around your air conditioning unit are a cause for concern. This could be a result of a blocked or broken drain tube, which means the condensation is not being properly drained away. If left unaddressed, this could lead to more severe water damage.
• Inconsistent temperatures. If some rooms in your house are cooler than others, it could indicate that your air conditioner isn’t distributing air properly. This inconsistency could be due to ductwork problems or an issue with the system's sensor.
• Rising energy bills. An unexplained spike in your energy bills despite no clear increase in consumption could mean that your air conditioner is not operating efficiently. Components may be working harder than they should be to cool your home.

How Often Should I Schedule Air Conditioning Maintenance?

No one wants to deal with frequent breakdowns or replace their cooling equipment before they need to. Routine maintenance is a key part of protecting the longevity and efficiency of your air conditioning system.

Generally, we recommend scheduling professional AC maintenance at least once a year, preferably in the spring – before the cooling season begins. This timing gives our professionals an opportunity to confirm that your air conditioner is in optimal working condition to combat the rising temperatures of summer. An annual tune-up typically includes cleaning the coils, checking refrigerant levels, inspecting the ductwork, and verifying that all components are operating smoothly. These preventive measures can help identify and resolve minor issues before they escalate into significant problems, potentially saving you expensive repairs and reducing the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns during peak usage times.

You should also consider the age and condition of your air conditioning unit. Older systems or those that have previously experienced significant issues might require more frequent check-ups to ensure they continue operating efficiently. Regular maintenance can extend your air conditioner's lifespan and help maintain a comfortable and healthy living environment.

Our Atlanta air conditioning services include help assessing your cooling equipment’s specific maintenance needs. Our team at R.S. Andrews can evaluate your system’s health, cooling needs, and home’s unique circumstances. Then, we can walk you through our maintenance recommendations and develop a convenient schedule that sets you up for success.

Should I Replace My Air Conditioning System?

Determining the right time to replace your air conditioning system can be challenging, especially given the costs involved. Several key factors should help guide your decision.

Many air conditioning units typically have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. If your system is approaching or has surpassed this timeframe, it may be wise to start evaluating your options. Older units tend to become less efficient and more prone to breakdowns, leading to increased repair costs and higher energy bills.

If you frequently need to call a technician for fixes, investing in a new system might be more cost-effective. Continuous repairs add up financially and suggest that your unit is no longer reliable. Plus, if a major component like the compressor or evaporator coil fails, the expense of replacing these parts might not be justifiable, given your unit's age and overall condition. 

Performance and comfort are paramount when it comes to your AC equipment. If your current system struggles to maintain consistent temperatures or if certain areas of your home remain uncomfortably warm, your air conditioner may no longer be able to keep up with demand. Rising humidity levels inside your home or inadequate airflow are indicators that your system is losing its efficiency.

Advantages of Installing a New Air Conditioning System

Replacing an old, inefficient air conditioning system with a new, advanced model can offer numerous benefits, from improved energy efficiency and enhanced comfort to greater reliability and environmental responsibility. While a new unit comes with an upfront cost, new cooling equipment can potentially provide substantial long-term savings and elevate your home's overall quality of life.

Here are some of the potential benefits of installing new AC equipment:

• Improved energy efficiency. Modern air conditioning systems are designed with enhanced energy-efficient features, such as variable speed compressors and advanced thermostats, which can help optimize performance and reduce energy consumption. Consequently, upgrading to a new unit can significantly lower your energy bills.
• Superior comfort. New systems can provide improved cooling capabilities and are generally better equipped to keep your home comfortable even during the hottest days. They are designed to evenly distribute temperature throughout your home, with the goal of eliminating hotspots and maintaining a consistent climate.
• Increased reliability and reduced repairs. Investing in a new air conditioner usually means greater reliability and fewer breakdowns, especially if you are used to an older unit on its last legs. 
• Environmentally friendly. Newer air conditioning systems tend to be more environmentally friendly, helping reduce the environmental footprint of cooling your home. Using less energy contributes to a greener planet by lowering overall energy demand and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Smart technology. Many new air conditioners come equipped with smart technology, including Wi-Fi connectivity and programmable thermostats, which can offer you greater convenience and control. When these settings are available and enabled, you can adjust settings remotely using your smartphone or even integrate your system with home automation platforms. 
• Increased property value. Installing a new, high-efficiency air conditioning system can add value to your property. Prospective buyers are often attracted to homes equipped with modern, efficient HVAC systems.

Not sure whether you need to repair or replace your cooling equipment? Request our Atlanta air conditioning services today by calling (470) 264-8128 or contacting us online!