Don't assume your air conditioner is sound just because it is running. Malfunctions do not always stop the AC from running; they may reduce energy efficiency, cooling efficiency or even shorten the system's lifespan. You can avoid such consequences by fixing AC malfunctions immediately after they occur. Below are signs you need AC diagnosis and repair.

High-energy Costs

The AC draws the electricity it needs to run the motors, run the fans, and circulate the refrigerant between the indoor and outdoor units. These functions continue until your house cools and the AC cycles off. The more the AC runs, the more energy it draws.

As such, your AC might overwork if it has to run for a long time to cool the house. That might happen if the AC is:

• Leaking air in the ductwork
• Running with a damaged condenser motor
• Using an improperly calibrated thermostat

Thus, you should calf or professional intervention if you suspect the AC is contributing to your high energy costs.

Strange Smells

A smelly AC probably means you have a moisture problem. For example, your AC might smell if:

• Debris blocks the condensate drain line
• Its coil freezes
• Its drain pan leaks

In such cases, the leaking or trapped moisture becomes stale, encouraging mold and mildew growth. Expect a musty or dirty sock smell from such ACs.

Unusual Sounds

A little noise from the AC is normal because it has moving parts (such as motors) and air. However, something is wrong if the noises change or increase. Maybe something is loose in the AC, the unit requires lubrication, or the system has suffered mechanical damage.

Whatever the cause of the noise is, it will probably worsen if you don't fix it. For example, a poorly lubricated motor might overheat, seize, and fail if you don't intervene in time.

Fluid Leakage Signs

AC fluids usually mean water or refrigerant. The AC extracts moisture from the air as part of the cooling process. The moisture condenses and drains out of the house via the condensate drain line. Blockage or damage to the drain components can lead to water leaking around the unit.

The refrigerant, which circulates between the indoor and outdoor AC units, can also leak due to damage to refrigerant lines. Wear and tear, wrong installation, and acidic corrosion are common causes of refrigerant leaks. In such cases, it is just a matter of time before the issues affect the AC's cooling efficiency. 

For more info, contact a local company like Mike's Heating and AC Service.