Your air conditioner usually gives you warning signs before it fails completely. Learning to recognize these signals can mean the difference between a simple repair and a costly emergency breakdown during the hottest week of summer.
At Martindale Heating and Air, we encourage homeowners to call at the first sign of trouble. Early intervention almost always costs less than waiting until your system stops working entirely. Here are the warning signs you should never ignore.
Warm Air from Vents
If your AC is running but blowing warm or room-temperature air, something is wrong. This could indicate low refrigerant, a compressor problem, or a faulty thermostat. Do not wait—this will not fix itself.
Weak Airflow
Reduced airflow from your vents makes your system work harder to cool your home. Causes range from clogged filters and blocked ducts to failing blower motors. Weak airflow strains your entire system.
Unusual Noises
Grinding, squealing, banging, or rattling sounds indicate mechanical problems. These noises often get worse quickly and can signal loose parts, motor issues, or components about to fail.
Strange Odors
Musty smells suggest mold in your ducts or unit. Burning odors could indicate electrical problems or an overheating motor. Any unusual smell warrants immediate professional inspection.
More Warning Signs to Watch For
Beyond the obvious symptoms above, your AC may exhibit subtler signs of trouble. Pay attention to changes in how your system operates—you know your home better than anyone.
- Frequent Cycling
Your AC should run in relatively consistent cycles. If it turns on and off every few minutes, something is causing it to short-cycle. This could be an oversized unit, refrigerant issues, electrical problems, or a failing compressor. Short-cycling wastes energy and accelerates wear on components. - High Humidity Indoors
Part of your AC's job is removing humidity from indoor air. If your home feels sticky or clammy even when the AC runs, the system may not be functioning properly. This affects comfort and can promote mold growth. - Water Leaks or Moisture
Some condensation near your AC unit is normal, but pools of water or significant moisture indicate a problem. Clogged drain lines, frozen evaporator coils, or refrigerant leaks can all cause water issues that lead to damage if ignored. - Spike in Energy Bills
If your electric bill suddenly increases without a change in usage habits, your AC may be working harder than it should. Declining efficiency is often the first sign of developing problems that will eventually cause breakdowns.
What Causes These Problems?
Understanding common causes helps you communicate with your technician and make informed decisions about repairs. Most AC problems stem from a handful of issues.
- Refrigerant Leaks
Your AC does not consume refrigerant—if levels are low, there is a leak somewhere. Low refrigerant causes warm air, reduced cooling capacity, and can damage the compressor. Leaks must be found and repaired, not just recharged. - Dirty or Frozen Coils
Evaporator and condenser coils need to be clean for proper heat transfer. Dirty coils reduce efficiency, while frozen coils indicate airflow problems or refrigerant issues. Both require professional attention. - Electrical Component Failure
Capacitors, contactors, and relays wear out over time. These relatively inexpensive parts can cause your system to stop working entirely or operate erratically. Regular maintenance catches these before they fail. - Blower Motor Problems
The blower motor moves air through your system. When it fails or weakens, you experience reduced airflow throughout your home. Motors can sometimes be repaired, but often need replacement. - Thermostat Issues
Sometimes the problem is not your AC at all—it is the thermostat. Faulty thermostats can cause erratic operation, short-cycling, or failure to start. This is often an easy and inexpensive fix.
Why Early Repair Matters
Ignoring warning signs rarely makes problems go away. In most cases, small issues become big problems when left unaddressed.
- Lower Repair Costs
A minor refrigerant leak costs much less to fix than a burned-out compressor caused by running low on refrigerant. Catching problems early keeps repair bills manageable. - Prevent Secondary Damage
One failing component often damages others. A worn contactor can burn out your compressor. A clogged drain can cause water damage. Early repair prevents cascade failures. - Avoid Emergency Calls
Scheduled repairs during business hours cost less than emergency service on a 105-degree Saturday. More importantly, you avoid the discomfort and potential danger of losing cooling during extreme heat. - Extend Equipment Life
Systems that run with developing problems wear out faster. Addressing issues promptly helps your AC last years longer, delaying the significant cost of replacement.
When to Call a Professional
Some troubleshooting is safe for homeowners—checking your thermostat settings, changing the filter, and clearing debris from the outdoor unit. But most AC problems require professional diagnosis and repair. Refrigerant, electrical components, and complex mechanical systems are not DIY territory.
If you notice any of these warning signs, contact Martindale Heating and Air for prompt, professional AC repair service. We serve homeowners throughout Cleburne, Burleson, Joshua, Alvarado, Grandview, and all of Johnson County and Hill County. Our technicians diagnose problems accurately and explain your options clearly—no pressure, no unnecessary repairs.