As temperatures rise in West Georgia and East Alabama, your air conditioner will soon be working overtime to keep your home comfortable. Before the summer heat arrives, it’s important to check for common AC problems that could lead to costly repairs or breakdowns. Identifying issues early can improve energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and overall home comfort, helping you avoid unexpected expenses.
At Jackson Services, we provide fast, expert AC repair, maintenance, and installation for homeowners in Opelika, LaGrange, Columbus, and Carrollton. If you notice any of the following issues, it may be time to schedule a professional AC inspection.
1. Weak Airflow or Warm Air Coming from Vents
If your air conditioner is running but not cooling properly, you’re not alone. Many homeowners experience weak airflow or warm air from their vents and wonder: Why is my AC blowing warm air? Why is the airflow so weak? Is this a serious problem?
Ignoring these symptoms can lead to higher energy bills, inefficient cooling, and even system failure. Understanding the root causes of airflow problems and how to fix them can help you prevent costly repairs.
Common Causes of Weak Airflow or Warm Air from Your AC
- Clogged or Dirty Air Filters– Dust and pet hair clog filters, restricting airflow and forcing your AC to work harder.
- Blocked or Leaky Air Ducts– Damaged or dirty ducts reduce airflow, making some rooms feel warmer than others.
- Failing Compressor– If your compressor is struggling, your system won’t cool efficiently.
- Low Refrigerant Levels or Leaks– A refrigerant leak can cause ice buildup on coils and weaken cooling performance.
- Obstructed Vents or Registers– Furniture, curtains, or rugs covering vents prevent air circulation, making certain rooms feel warmer.
5 Things You Can Do to Fix Weak Airflow or Warm Air from Your AC
- Check and Replace Your Air Filter– A clean air filter improves airflow, efficiency, and air quality. Replace your filter every 1-3 months depending on your home environment.
- Ensure Vents Are Open and Unblocked– Move furniture away from air vents to allow better airflow.
- Look for Signs of a Refrigerant Leak– Ice on refrigerant lines or a hissing sound could indicate a leak that needs professional repair.
- Check Your Thermostat Settings– Ensure your thermostat is set to cooling mode and the temperature is set lower than the current room temperature.
- Inspect Air Ducts for Blockages or Leaks– A duct inspection can detect blockages or leaks affecting airflow.
2. AC Making Strange Noises
Your air conditioner should run smoothly with minimal noise. If you hear banging, grinding, squealing, or rattling, it could indicate a mechanical issue that needs attention.
Common Causes of Strange AC Noises
- Loose or Broken AC Components– Over time, fan blades, screws, and other parts can loosen, creating a rattling noise.
- Failing Blower Motor– A grinding or screeching sound often means worn motor bearings or an overheating motor.
- Worn-Out Belt or Compressor Issues– A squealing noise may signal a misaligned belt or a failing compressor.
3. AC Won’t Turn On or Cycles On and Off Frequently
If your air conditioner won’t start or keeps turning on and off too frequently, it may indicate an underlying issue affecting cooling efficiency, energy costs, and system lifespan.
Common Causes of AC Not Turning On or Short Cycling
- Faulty Thermostat or Incorrect Settings– Incorrect settings or a malfunctioning thermostat may prevent the AC from turning on.
- Electrical Problems or a Tripped Circuit Breaker– A power surge or a bad capacitor can disrupt system function.
- Low Refrigerant Levels or a Frozen Evaporator Coil– A frozen coil can cause the system to shut down repeatedly.
5 Things You Can Do Before Calling for Service
- Check Your Thermostat Settings– Ensure it is set to cooling mode, and try adjusting the temperature a few degrees lower.
- Replace Thermostat Batteries– Weak batteries can cause malfunctions.
- Reset the Circuit Breaker– If your AC won’t turn on, check if a breaker has tripped and reset it if needed.
- Look for Signs of a Frozen Coil– If your AC is cycling on and off too frequently, check for ice on the evaporator coil or refrigerant lines.
- Listen for Unusual Noises– Clicking or buzzing sounds when the AC tries to start may indicate an electrical issue.
4. Unusual Odors Coming from Your AC
Your air conditioner should never produce musty, burning, or foul smells. If you notice an unpleasant odor, it could indicate an issue affecting your home’s air quality and system performance.
3 Common Causes of Unusual AC Odors
- Mold or Mildew Growth in the Ductwork– A musty smell often means excess moisture inside your system.
- Electrical Wiring Issues or Overheating Components– A burning smell could signal a wiring issue.
- Clogged Condensate Drain Line– A damp, musty odor can result from standing water due to a blocked drain.
What You Can Do to Reduce AC Odors
- Replace Your Air Filter– A clean filter helps remove dust, allergens, and mold spores, improving indoor air quality.
- Check for Visible Mold or Water Leaks– Inspect ducts, vents, and drain lines for signs of mold growth or standing water.
- Turn Off Your AC if You Smell Burning– Electrical odors should be addressed immediately by an HVAC professional.
- Run a Dehumidifier– Reducing indoor humidity helps prevent mold growth inside your AC system.
5. Rising Energy Bills and Poor AC Efficiency
If your energy bills are climbing but your home isn’t staying cool, your AC may be working harder than necessary due to efficiency issues.
Common Causes of Higher Energy Bills and Reduced AC Efficiency
- Dirty Condenser Coils– When covered in dirt, coils can’t release heat efficiently.
- Aging or Failing System Components– Worn-out parts reduce performance over time.
- Low Refrigerant Levels or Leaks– Leaks cause longer run times and higher energy consumption.
5 Things You Can Do to Improve AC Efficiency
- Schedule Routine AC Maintenance– Regular tune-ups ensure all system components are clean, lubricated, and working properly, preventing energy waste.
- Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clean– Remove debris, leaves, and dirt around your outdoor condenser unit to help it expel heat more efficiently.
- Check and Replace Air Filters Regularly– A clogged air filter makes your system work harder. Change filters every 1-3 months.
- Seal Air Leaks in Your Home– Poor insulation or air leaks around windows and doors force your AC to work harder to maintain indoor temperatures.
- Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient AC System– If your AC is 15+ years old, a modern high-efficiency unit can significantly reduce energy consumption.
Prevent AC Problems with Seasonal Maintenance
Regular AC maintenance is the best way to prevent unexpected breakdowns, improve efficiency, and extend system lifespan. Scheduling a spring AC tune-up ensures your system is ready for peak summer temperatures.
What’s Included in a Professional AC Tune-Up from Jackson Services?
- Cleaning Condenser and Evaporator Coils– Improves heat transfer and cooling efficiency.
- Checking Refrigerant Levels– Ensures proper cooling performance and prevents strain on the system.
- Tightening Electrical Connections– Prevents system failures and safety hazards.
- Replacing Air Filters– Improves airflow and indoor air quality.
- 35-Point Efficiency Inspection– Identifies small issues before they become major breakdowns.
- Flushing the Heating & Air Unit Drain Pipe– Prevents clogs and water damage before they start.
Membership Plan: A Smart Way to Protect Your System
Routine HVAC maintenance helps extend the life of your system, improve efficiency, and prevent costly repairs. With the Jackson Services Membership Club, you can keep your heating, cooling, and plumbing systems in peak condition year-round for just $19.95 per month for one system.
Membership Benefits Include:
- Seasonal HVAC Tune-Ups– Comprehensive spring and fall maintenance to keep your AC and heating system in top condition.
- Annual Plumbing Inspections– Detect and fix small plumbing issues before they turn into costly repairs.
- Priority Service– Get same-day repairs whenever possible so you’re never left waiting in extreme temperatures.
- Exclusive Discounts– Enjoy 15% off standard repairs and $500 off new system installations.
For even more coverage, customize your Membership Plan with:
- Water Heater Flush – Keep your water heater efficient for only $7/month.
- Filter Upgrades – Improve indoor air quality with premium filters for only $5/month.
