With temperatures in the upper 80s and sometimes the 90s and relative humidity above 80%, this is a time of year when we need to rely heavily on our home air conditioning systems for comfort. (By the way, if your air conditioning system doesn’t have a dehumidifier built into it, we recommend calling us for whole-house dehumidifier installation. It can make an enormous difference in comfort and how much you run the AC.)
Because we depend so much on air conditioning systems at the close of the summer, and because air conditioners have already put in so much hard work in the first half of the season, this is a period when ACs are at the highest risk of malfunctions and even full breakdowns.
This post is our way to help remind you to keep a close watch for indications you need AC repairs in Slidell, LA. We are ready to help the moment you’ve got an AC dealing with late-summer woes!
Low Airflow From the Vents?
When you notice that the house feels hotter than you expect, we recommend you check on the different room vents and feel the airflow from them. If it’s weaker than normal, it can mean problems with the AC’s blower fan. This is one of the hardest-working components in an air conditioner, and if the motor is running down, airflow will suffer. You may need us to replace the blower motor to solve this. Also see if the HVAC filter is dirty, as a clogged filter will also cut down on airflow.
Uneven Cooling?
Some parts of the house are crisp and cool. That’s good! But some rooms are too hot, even though they usually enjoy the same level of cooling. That’s bad! Uneven cooling like this is a major red flag that an AC is losing cooling capacity because of excess wear. If it isn’t a clogged filter, blocked vents, or an incorrect setting on the thermostat, please have our technicians take a look at the issue.
The AC Is Louder Than Normal?
An air conditioner creates a blanket of white noise that many people find relaxing during the summer. In fact, you can find online recordings of air conditioner sounds people use to help them sleep at night. When the AC isn’t making a “relaxing” white noise but instead loud sounds, it’s a big warning of mechanical strain on the system and a good reason to get professionals on the job ASAP.
Humidity Seems Worse?
It’s possible the humidity on a given day is terrible. But keep in mind that there’s an upper limit on humidity: it can’t be more than 100%, i.e. rain. If you feel your house is having more trouble with humid conditions than it normally does, this might be warning you something is wrong with the AC’s operation. An air conditioner isn’t a dedicated dehumidifier, but it draws some moisture from the air as it runs. When its cooling capacity starts to drop, it will result in higher humidity—and it’s often a warning of a problem with the compressor.
Gowland’s Heating & A/C believes in “Relationship Over Revenue!” If you need fast air conditioning repairs, you can depend on us since we’re available at your convenience, not ours.