There are several indicators that your cooling unit may be failing.
- Energy bills rising inexplicably
- Poor cooling performance
- Moisture buildup or high humidity
- Loud, persistent noises
- Unusual odors
Usually, the most glaring indicators of a failing air conditioner are worsened effectiveness and efficiency. If it’s taking longer than usual for your household to cool down, or some rooms aren’t getting as much cold air as others, it typically means something is weakening the system’s performance. It may just be that it needs repair or maintenance, but if the appliance is more than 10 years old, it may be time to replace it.
Air conditioners tend to struggle when nearing the end of their lives, and that extra effort will result in poor energy efficiency. That will lead to your monthly energy bills gradually rising.
Air conditioners are also responsible for reducing the humidity of your home. As they deteriorate over time, though, they become less effective at doing so. If your household suddenly feels more humid or you’ve noticed general dampness, it may mean that your AC unit is struggling. With all of these issues, your best course of action is to bring in a local cooling technician as soon as possible.