Does Your Air Conditioning Need a Repair?

Date: March 20, 2023

5 warning signs that your central A/C system is struggling

We all know that spring is the time for sprucing up homes and preparing for the warm months ahead. You might already be cleaning out the winter clutter in your home or planning which plants to put in your garden.

While you’re at it, it’s a good idea to take your home’s cooling system for an early test drive. You can look (and listen … and smell) for common warning signs that your air conditioning needs a repair.

Five signs that you might have an A/C problem

Here are five issues that our air conditioning repair team often gets calls about:

1. Odd sounds often indicate a mechanical issue. A squealing sound could signal that a blower or compressor fan needs lubrication. Likewise, a clanging could be a compressor issue. Grinding can mean that a compressor is on the cusp of failing.
2. Leaks are only sometimes a significant concern. Moisture naturally forms on the condenser coil and drips into a pan. A clog could result in water leaking. This is a reasonably easy fix. However, leaks can also be caused by low refrigerant, which is costlier to remedy (primarily if your system uses outdated R-22 refrigerant).
3. Warm air can be caused by a clogged or dirty air filter. You can fix this yourself. If the filter isn’t the issue, it could be any number of other, more complex problems, including low refrigerant or malfunctioning compressors, evaporator coils or ductwork.
4. Ballooning electric bills in the summer may indicate that your system is struggling to keep your home cool and therefore is cycling more often.
5. Pungent or burnt odors from your A/C may be a sign of failing electrical wiring, mildew or mold.

Once you have a sense of what the issue with your cooling system may be, you can figure out if it’s something you can handle or if you need the help of a professional.

What A/C maintenance can you handle yourself?

You can (and probably should) take care of some cooling system maintenance on your own. Before summer arrives, you can:

• check your air filter and clean or replace it, if necessary.
• check and clean your condenser coils.
• pass a wire through your condensate drain to clear any blockages.
• empty any drain pans.

When should you call in the pros at Cubby Oil & Energy?

Firstly, we recommend arranging a yearly tune-up for your air conditioning equipment. This will help it continue working at peak efficiency and extend its lifespan. Regular service also helps with your home’s air quality. Cubby Oil & Energy has affordable service plans that include air conditioner maintenance.

If you notice any of the warning signs above and the problem can’t be solved with an air filter change or by clearing a simple clog, then you should call our technicians. We’ll identify the problem swiftly and fix it. And if your A/C is at the end of its road, we can help you with a replacement that meets your needs and budget.

Households across Greater Boston count on Cubby Oil & Energy for A/C maintenance and repairs. Contact us today to request a service appointment.