Don’t Wait for a 95° Day to Find Out
Picture this: It’s the hottest week of the year in Central Ohio. You’re trying to relax, but your AC is blowing warm air—or worse, not blowing anything at all.
Every summer, Sears Heating and Cooling gets flooded with emergency calls from customers caught off guard by an unexpected AC failure. The good news? Most of these breakdowns gave warning signs well before the system quit for good.
Here are the top 5 signs your AC might not make it through the season—and what to do before it’s too late.
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It’s Blowing Warm or Weak Air
If your AC isn’t pumping out strong, cold air like it used to, something’s not right. Common culprits include:
- A failing compressor
- Low refrigerant levels
- Clogged or dirty filters
It may still “run,” but it’s wasting energy and not doing its job—an early sign it could fail under pressure.
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Strange Noises
Your AC shouldn’t grind, rattle, squeal, or clunk. These sounds can point to:
- Loose or broken parts
- Failing motors or belts
- Imminent compressor issues
Bottom line: If your AC sounds like it’s struggling—it probably is.
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It’s Short-Cycling or Running Constantly
Short-cycling (starting and stopping frequently) or running all day without reaching your desired temp signals trouble. This could mean:
- A failing thermostat
- Improper system sizing
- Internal wear and tear
Both behaviors put unnecessary strain on your system—and your electric bill.
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Your Energy Bills Are Suddenly Spiking
If your usage habits haven’t changed, but your energy bills have jumped, your AC may be working overtime to compensate for:
- Worn-out parts
- Dirty coils or filters
- Refrigerant leaks or low efficiency
A mid-season breakdown often starts with a quiet spike in your bill.
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Your Unit Is Over 12–15 Years Old
Even well-maintained AC units have a lifespan. If yours is over a decade old and showing any of the signs above, it’s time to plan ahead. Waiting until it fails could mean:
- Long wait times for emergency service
- Higher costs due to rushed decisions
- Being stuck in the heat while you scramble for a fix
Don’t Wait for a Total Breakdown
A pre-summer inspection or service call can catch issues early—and possibly extend the life of your current system. Even if your unit is near the end, replacing it on your terms (before peak season demand) is always smarter than waiting for an emergency.
Schedule a Checkup with Sears Heating and Cooling Today
Our expert techs can inspect, tune, repair—or recommend the best energy-efficient replacement if needed. We’ve been keeping Columbus cool since 1950, and we’re here when you need us. Call us today 614-475-1800 or schedule online!
