“It was working yesterday.”
It’s one of the most common things homeowners say when they call us during the hottest weeks of summer.
The truth? Your air conditioner was probably trying to tell you something long before it stopped working.
Most HVAC systems don’t fail without warning. They gradually lose efficiency, make unusual noises, or struggle to keep up before finally calling it quits. Knowing what to watch for can help you avoid an unexpected breakdown when temperatures climb into the 90s.
Here are three signs your air conditioner may be asking for help.
1. Your Home Never Quite Gets Cool
You set the thermostat to 72°, but your house hovers around 77°.
If your AC is running but can’t seem to reach the temperature you’ve set, something isn’t working as efficiently as it should. A dirty air filter, low refrigerant, restricted airflow, or aging components can all make your system work harder without delivering the comfort you expect.
On a hot Northern Virginia day, your air conditioner should be able to cool your home. If it’s constantly playing catch-up, it’s time to have it looked at.
2. Your AC Is Working Overtime
Longer cooling cycles are normal during extreme heat.
Running constantly without ever catching up isn’t.
If your system seems to be on all day, it’s putting unnecessary strain on the equipment while driving up your energy bill. That’s often a sign your air conditioner is losing efficiency or that a small issue is becoming a larger one.
The longer you wait, the harder your system has to work, and the greater the chance of a breakdown when you need it most.
3. It’s Making Noises It Never Made Before
Your air conditioner shouldn’t surprise you with new sounds.
Grinding, banging, squealing, buzzing, or repeated clicking can all point to components that are worn, loose, or beginning to fail.
Think of it like your car. You wouldn’t ignore a new knocking sound coming from under the hood, and the same goes for your HVAC system. Strange noises are often one of the clearest warnings that something needs attention before a small repair becomes a much larger one.
Before You Schedule a Repair
A few quick checks could save you a service call:
- Replace a dirty air filter.
- Make sure your thermostat is set to Cool and has fresh batteries if needed. (Check out these other preventative measures as well)
- Check that the outdoor unit isn’t blocked by grass, weeds, or debris.
If you’ve done those things and your AC is still struggling, it’s time to call in a professional.
Don’t Wait for the Heat Wave
Every summer, repair schedules fill up when the first major heat wave rolls through Northern Virginia. Unfortunately, that’s when many homeowners realize their AC had been warning them for weeks.
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, having your system inspected now could help you avoid an inconvenient breakdown, a larger repair bill, a full AC replacement, and a very uncomfortable day at home.
Keep Your Cool This Summer
Whether your air conditioner needs a repair, seasonal maintenance, or simply a professional inspection, Shaw Services is here to help.f
Schedule your service today so your AC is ready before the next stretch of triple-digit heat index days arrives.