Will My AC Survive the Summer?

04/01/2023

Summer in Tennessee is just around the corner. As temperatures rise, many people worry about the health of their air conditioning units. A failing AC in the middle of a heatwave can be a nightmare for home and business owners.

So, how can you tell if your air conditioning system will survive the warmest months of the year? In this blog, we cover:

  • Signs you need AC repair
  • How to tell if you need to replace your air conditioning
  • Helpful HVAC tips for the summer
women with head in freeze due to broken AC unit in summer

Signs Your Air Conditioning Needs Repair Before the Summer

There are a few common indicators that your AC needs repair before the start of summer. If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s time to call a trusted, HVAC-certified technician. The air conditioning repair professionals at Chancey & Reynolds are NATE-certified and provide reliable air conditioning services for Knoxville and Lenoir City.

Warm Air  If your AC is blowing warm air instead of cool air, that’s a sign that there’s something wrong with the system. An AC blowing warm air could be due to a refrigerant leak, a faulty compressor, a clogged filter, or a problem with the ductwork.

Poor Airflow  If your air conditioning is not blowing enough air to cool the space or you notice a weaker airflow, you could have a clogged air filter. Poor AC airflow could also be due to a ductwork issue.

Unusual Sounds  Something could be wrong with your AC if you hear strange noises like banging, rattling, or grinding coming from the unit. Strange noises from air conditioning could be due to loose parts, damaged fan blades, or a malfunctioning compressor.

Bad Odors  Is there a musty or burning smell coming from your air conditioning? Unpleasant odors from your AC could indicate mold, electrical problems, or even overheating components.

High Humidity  If your home or office feels humid even when the AC is running, it could be a sign of a problem with the air conditioning unit’s dehumidifier.

How to Tell if You Should Replace Your AC Before the Summer

If you’re wondering if you should replace your air conditioner before the hot weather hits, here are the primary factors to consider. Should you decide to replace your AC and install a new system, you can trust the HVAC contractors at Chancey & Reynolds for fast, easy AC replacement and installation.

Age  Is your air conditioning system more than 10 years old? If so, you should consider replacing it. Older AC units are less energy-efficient and more prone to breaking down during the summer months when you rely on them the most.

Frequent Repairs  If you feel like you are constantly paying to repair your AC, it may be time to replace it with a new system.

Rising Energy Bills  If your energy bills are increasing even though you’re using your AC as usual, it could be a sign that your AC isn’t running efficiently and needs to be replaced.

Inconsistent Temperatures  Hot spots in your house or uneven cooling throughout your space could be a sign that your AC is not functioning properly.

R-22 Refrigerant  If your air conditioning uses R-22 refrigerant, it needs to be replaced. R-22 is being phased out because of its harmful environmental impacts. It’s also becoming increasingly expensive.

Helpful HVAC Tips for the Summer

So, your AC hasn’t had any problems that indicate it needs repair or replacement before summer? That’s great news! Here are our professional pointers to keep your air conditioning system running at peak performance through the hottest months of the year.

Set a Summer AC Temperature  The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit when you’re at home and 88 degrees Fahrenheit when you’re away. These temperature settings help you save money and energy.

Schedule Regular Maintenance  Regular HVAC maintenance is crucial to keep your AC in top condition. Schedule a professional tune-up at least once a year to ensure your AC is running efficiently.

Replace Your Air Filter  A dirty air filter restricts airflow and reduces the efficiency of your AC. How frequently you change your air filter is different for every household, but a good rule of thumb is to replace it every month during the summer.

Seal Your Home  Air leaks in your home can force your air conditioner to work harder to cool your space. By sealing any air leaks around doors and windows, you can keep the inside air cooler.

Use a Programmable Thermostat  A programmable thermostat, or a smart thermostat, helps you save energy and money. Smart thermostats automatically adjust your HVAC system’s temperature based on your daily routines.

Use Fans  Ceiling fans and portable fans help circulate cool air and reduce your reliance on your AC. They also help cut down on humidity.

Air Conditioning Repair and Replacement in Knoxville and Lenoir City

Taking care of your AC is essential to ensuring it keeps you cool this summer. Keep an eye out for signs that your AC needs repair or replacement, and make sure to follow these HVAC tips for warm weather.

When you’re looking for an HVAC partner to maintain your air conditioning system, you can trust the professionals at Chancey & Reynolds. Our HVAC-certified technicians have decades of experience installing, repairing, and servicing cooling systems of all makes and models. We thoroughly evaluate your home’s design to recommend the best-fitting systems for you. We even offer convenient financing options, so you can cool down quickly.