4 Signs That Your Air Conditioner Is No Longer Efficient

Air conditioners are designed to last 15 to 20 years with regular maintenance. However, that doesn’t mean things can’t go wrong. When a subtle drop in efficiency occurs, you may not notice immediately. Watch out for the following four signs that indicate the air conditioner in your Naples, Florida home is no longer efficient.

Reduced Airflow

When the airflow from your air conditioner suddenly becomes weak, the reason could be:

• A dirty air filter. Air can’t flow properly through a clogged air filter.
• Leaky ducts. A leak in the ductwork lets air escape. This means that less cold air will reach the air vents.
• A faulty AC blower. The AC blower pushes air through the ducts. When the blower motor is faulty, there will be a significant drop in airflow throughout the AC system.

Ice on the Compressor

If you notice ice buildup on the compressor, this indicates a refrigerant leak or damaged evaporator coils. Both of these issues are best left to the professionals. Your HVAC technician will inspect and defrost the coils. They will also check for a blocked air filter. This can contribute to ice forming on the coils. If a refrigerant leak is the culprit, the technician will repair the leak and correctly refill refrigerant according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Frequent Cycling

Frequent or short cycling is when your air conditioner cycles on and off more frequently and for shorter periods. The AC will switch off before reaching the desired temperature on the thermostat and then start up again. This means your home never reaches the temperature set on the thermostat.

Increased Energy Costs

In most cases, when AC efficiency drops, energy bills skyrocket. This is because an inefficient air conditioner has to work harder to cool a house. If you notice your energy costs creeping up, have the HVAC system inspected.

If your air conditioner isn’t running efficiently, call JP Brett & Sons Air Conditioning at 239-300-9186 for an inspection and AC repairs. We’ve been keeping the residents of Naples, Florida, cool and comfortable since 1972.

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