When you finally need a blast of cool air, it’s not uncommon for ACs to make a little noise the first time they kick on. Some rattling and louder-than-normal motor noises can only be a sign that your AC is settling down. However, sometimes it can indicate you need an AC repair Centennial, CO service company.

Common Signs Your Air Conditioning Needs Repairs

When temperatures start climbing, the last thing you want is for your air conditioner to go out. Sometimes, all you need is a repair instead of replacing the unit. 

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However, if your AC is ten years or older, it may be time to replace it. Yes, a new air conditioner isn’t cheap, but you can get a return on your investment in the form of lower energy bills.

Only Blowing Warm Air

You expect your furnace to blow out warm air, not your air conditioner. If warm air is blowing out of the vents, head to the thermostat. The thermostat is the brain of your AC, meaning it’s responsible for controlling the room’s temperature. 

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The thermostat lets the air conditioner know when to kick on and turn off. Your thermostat may be at the wrong setting, and this is an easy fix. Try lowering the setting and see if cool air starts coming out of the vents. You also want to make sure the thermostat is set to cool and not warm. Sometimes, it’s easy to forget to change the setting after a long, cold winter.

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If this doesn’t resolve the problem, you may have a problem with the compressor or a blockage restricting airflow.

Continuously Cycling

When an air conditioner cycles, this refers to the unit turning on and off. How often an AC cycles depends on the thermostat setting and the outdoor temperature. For example, if it’s 90 degrees and sunny outside and your thermostat is set to 70, you should expect long cycles with short periods of off time.

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If your air conditioner is constantly turning on and off, with only a few minutes between each cycle, this can indicate a problem with the unit. Hopefully, it’s a simple repair but often frequent cycling is a sign it’s time to replace an old unit. Another reason your air conditioner may be constantly cycling is it’s the wrong size unit for your space.

Weird Noises

You expect your air conditioner to make some noise when it first turns on in the summer. Even after a few days of running, it’s still common to hear some noise as the unit powers on and off. When the noises are loud and sudden, this can be a sign of trouble.

Buzzing and rattling sounds can indicate there’s a loose part banging around. If you hear grinding noises, it’s a good idea to shut the AC unit down. Grinding and whistling sounds typically mean you’re dealing with a more serious problem.

Water Leaks

Some condensation around your air conditioner usually isn’t a reason to panic. If water starts pooling around your AC or you notice refrigerant leaking out, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with an air conditioner repair service.

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Leaking coolant can pose a health risk for both humans and animals. The refrigerant is toxic. Even water leaks can cause significant damage. If the moisture gets inside your home, you may end up dealing with water damage. Now you need both an AC repair and water damage restoration specialist.

Strange Odors

A slightly musty smell coming out of the vents the first time your air conditioner turns on is normal. During the winter, some dust and dirt can get into the vents and air ducts. The musty smell usually goes away after a couple of minutes.

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If the smell is unpleasant or it doesn’t go away, you may have a serious problem. This means scheduling an AC inspection and possibly a repair.

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Did you know you can help prevent musty odors in your vents with regular duct cleaning? Cleaning your air ducts at least once a year can also help improve airflow while also reducing allergens.

Keep Your AC Running All Summer

Unfortunately, most air conditioners need repairs at least once during their lifetime. Sometimes the repairs are minor, and other times they can be expensive. If your AC isn’t running optimally, don’t wait to schedule a service appointment. You may be risking turning a minor repair into an expensive project. 

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Regular maintenance is one of the most effective ways to extend your air conditioner's lifespan and avoid costly repairs. Scheduling annual tune-ups with a professional technician can identify potential issues before they become major problems. These professionals will check refrigerant levels, clean coils, inspect electrical components, and ensure your system is running at peak efficiency.

Don't underestimate the importance of changing your air filters regularly. Clogged filters restrict airflow, forcing your AC to work harder and potentially leading to system failures. During the summer months when your unit runs frequently, check filters monthly and replace them as needed – typically every 1-3 months depending on usage and environmental factors like pets or construction in your area.

Keep the area around your outdoor condenser unit clear of debris, vegetation, and obstructions. Aim for at least two feet of clearance on all sides to ensure proper airflow. Trimming back shrubs and regularly removing leaves, grass clippings, and dirt from the unit can prevent system strain and overheating.

Consider installing a programmable thermostat if you haven't already. These smart devices can help regulate your home's temperature more efficiently, reducing wear and tear on your AC system while lowering your energy bills

Conclusion

By combining professional service with diligent home care and promptly addressing any warning signs, you can enjoy reliable, efficient cooling throughout Denver's summer months. Don't wait until your AC completely fails on the hottest day of the year—being proactive about maintenance and repairs will keep you comfortable while potentially saving thousands in emergency service costs and premature replacement.