ac repair

5 Signs Your AC Needs Repair (And How to Tell)

ByKyle Rice

When the heat hits hard, your air conditioner becomes your best friend. But what happens when it stops working the way it should?

If you live in a place like Houston, Texas, where summers are long and humid, you really can’t afford to ignore the signs of a struggling AC. Here are 5 ways to tell if your AC needs repair before it completely breaks down.

1. Your AC Blows Warm Air

If you turn on the AC and warm air comes out, that’s a big red flag. It could mean your compressor isn’t working right or there’s a problem with the refrigerant. In Houston, where temperatures can easily climb past 95°F, you don’t want to wait too long to get this checked.

Try switching your thermostat to “cool” and lowering the temperature. If the air still feels warm, it’s time to call a pro. Sometimes, the problem might be as simple as low refrigerant, but other times it could be a broken compressor or an issue with the cooling coils. Either way, don’t ignore it—cool air is a must when the Texas heat kicks in.

Also, check if your outdoor unit is running. If it isn’t, there could be a power issue or a tripped breaker. While you can reset the breaker, it’s safer to have a technician handle electrical problems.

2. Weak Airflow from Vents

Does the air barely come out of the vents, even when the AC is on full blast? Weak airflow might mean there’s a blockage in your ducts or a problem with the blower. This can make it harder to cool down your home, which leads to higher energy bills.

In humid places like Houston, poor airflow can also cause moisture problems and make your home feel sticky. Sometimes, the culprit is a clogged air filter that needs to be replaced. Other times, there might be something stuck in your ductwork or the motor might be slowing down.

If you notice some rooms feel colder than others, it could also point to duct leaks. Leaky ducts waste cool air and force your AC to work overtime. Getting a professional to seal or clean your ducts can make a big difference.

3. Loud or Strange Noises

A healthy AC runs pretty quietly. If you start hearing grinding, squealing, banging, or rattling, something’s wrong inside. These sounds could mean loose parts, a belt that’s wearing out, or something more serious like a motor issue.

Pro Tip: Don’t ignore weird noises coming from your AC—they can turn into expensive repairs if left alone.

A grinding sound might mean the motor bearings are wearing down. A screeching noise could mean a belt is slipping. If you hear banging, a part might be loose or broken. The sooner you call a technician, the better your chances of avoiding bigger repairs.

4. Strange Smells Coming from the AC

When your AC turns on, do you smell something musty or burnt? A musty smell might mean mold or mildew is growing inside the system. A burning smell could point to electrical issues.

In a humid city like Houston, mold can grow fast if moisture builds up in your AC. It’s a good idea to have a technician clean and inspect your system to stop the problem early. Breathing in moldy air can trigger allergies, asthma, and other breathing problems.

If you smell rotten eggs or sulfur, it could mean a gas leak nearby. While this isn’t usually related to your AC, it’s still dangerous and needs to be checked immediately. Any unusual smell should be taken seriously.

5. Higher Energy Bills

If your electric bill has gone up without any big changes in how you use your AC, your system might be working harder than it needs to.

Dirty filters, low refrigerant, or old parts can all make your AC less efficient.

An overworked AC has to fight against the heat and humidity, using even more energy to cool your home. Check your past bills to compare. If you notice a steady climb in costs, it’s worth having your AC checked to see what’s going on.

Sometimes, getting regular maintenance is all it takes to keep energy bills under control. A technician can clean the coils, check refrigerant levels, and make sure everything runs smoothly.

Quick Tips for Homeowners

  • Check and replace your air filter every 1-2 months, especially during peak summer.
  • Schedule a professional AC tune-up in the spring before the hottest months hit.
  • Keep outdoor units clear of leaves, grass, and debris to improve airflow.
  • Close blinds and curtains during the hottest part of the day to help your AC cool your home more easily.
  • Use ceiling fans to help spread cool air and take pressure off your AC.
  • Make sure your thermostat is working right—sometimes the issue isn’t the AC but a faulty thermostat.
  • Check for water leaks around your indoor unit. If you see puddles or dripping, your AC’s drain line might be clogged.

Don’t Wait for an Emergency

If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait for your AC to quit on you during a heatwave. Call a trusted local AC repair service to check things out and keep your home cool all summer long. Staying on top of small issues can help your AC last longer and save you from sweating it out in the Houston heat.

Even if you don’t notice a problem, getting your AC checked once a year can help prevent sudden breakdowns. The last thing you want is to be stuck without cool air during one of Houston’s hottest weeks. Taking care of your AC now means you can relax and stay comfortable all season.