5 Signs Your AC Needs Repair Before Summer Hits

In the Antelope Valley, we know that summer isn't just hot—it's brutal. When temperatures regularly climb over 100°F, your air conditioner isn't just a luxury; it's a necessity for your family's safety and comfort.

The worst time to find out your AC is broken is on the first scorcher of July. By then, technicians are booked solid, and you could be stuck waiting in a hot house. The smart move? Listen to what your system is telling you now.

1. Warm Air Blowing from Vents

This is the most obvious sign, but also one people try to ignore. If you put your hand over a register and the air feels room temperature or barely cool, something is wrong. It could be a refrigerant leak, a failing compressor, or even just a frozen coil. Regardless, it won't fix itself.

2. Weak Airflow

Is your fan running, but the air coming out of the vents feels like a whisper? Weak airflow often points to a clog in your ductwork, a dirty air filter, or a failing blower motor. If the air can't circulate effectively, your home will never reach the temperature you set on the thermostat.

3. Strange Noises

AC units should be relatively quiet—a steady hum is normal. What’s not normal?

• Grinding: Often a sign of motor bearing failure.
• Squealing: Could indicate a loose belt.
• Banging or Clanking: A loose part may be rattling around inside the unit.

Hearing any of these? Turn the system off and call a pro immediately before loose parts cause major damage.

4. Frequent Cycling

Does your AC turn on, run for a few minutes, turn off, and then turn right back on again? This is called "short cycling." It puts immense stress on your compressor and drives your energy bills through the roof. It can be caused by anything from a dirty filter to an oversized unit, but it always requires professional diagnosis.

5. Unexplained Spike in Energy Bills

Did your electric bill jump 30% compared to last year, even though you used the AC the same amount? That’s a sign your system has lost efficiency. It’s working harder and longer to produce the same amount of cooling, costing you money every minute it runs.