Summers can bring warm days and humid nights—and your air conditioner plays a major role in keeping your home cool, comfortable, and safe. But like any complex system, your AC needs routine care and timely repairs to perform at its best. Waiting until your system breaks down completely can mean days without cool air and costly emergency repairs.
We help homeowners stay ahead of discomfort and avoid expensive breakdowns by identifying early warning signs. If you notice any of the symptoms below, it may be time to schedule an HVAC repair in Winnetka, IL.
1. Your System Is Blowing Warm or Weak Air
The most obvious sign something’s wrong with your AC? It’s not cooling your home properly. If warm air is blowing from your vents—or the airflow feels weak and uneven—it’s likely due to one of the following issues:
- Low refrigerant levels from a leak
- A malfunctioning compressor
- Clogged air filters or duct obstructions
- Blower motor problems
Warm or weak airflow reduces your system’s ability to control indoor temperatures and can quickly strain components, leading to further wear and higher energy bills.
Pro Tip: If your thermostat settings are correct but you’re still uncomfortable, schedule a professional inspection. We’ll pinpoint the issue and get your system back on track.
2. Unusual Noises Coming From the AC
While it’s normal to hear a soft hum when your AC is running, banging, grinding, hissing, or squealing noises are not normal. These sounds often indicate:
- Loose or broken components
- Worn belts or bearings
- Electrical issues
- Refrigerant leaks
The sooner you address unusual noises, the better. Ignoring them can lead to more severe damage and more expensive repairs down the road.
What to Do: Don’t try to diagnose these issues yourself—schedule a repair appointment so our HVAC technicians can safely inspect the system and make the necessary fixes.
3. Your Energy Bills Are Suddenly Higher
If your electricity bill is rising—despite similar usage patterns—it could be a sign your AC is running inefficiently. A struggling system may:
- Run longer to cool the same space
- Cycle on and off frequently (short cycling)
- Work harder due to dirty filters or duct leaks
Over time, inefficient operation leads to greater wear and tear on your system and drives up your monthly costs. An experienced technician can evaluate your unit’s performance, clean critical components, and make repairs that restore energy efficiency. In Winnetka’s climate, efficient cooling is key to affordable comfort. Don’t pay more than you need to.
4. Excess Moisture or Leaking Around the Unit
Pooled water or excess condensation near your AC unit is a sign that something’s wrong with the drainage system—or potentially the refrigerant line. Common causes include:
- A clogged or cracked condensate drain line
- Frozen evaporator coils
- Refrigerant leaks (which can also pose health risks)
Moisture problems can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and poor indoor air quality if not addressed quickly.
Contact Roberts Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. today to schedule your air conditioning repair appointment as soon as possible.