The last thing you want to face after a wonderful day at Briar Bush Nature Center is a broken air conditioner. If you live in Abington, PA, or the surrounding areas, knowing when you might need an AC repair vs. an AC replacement is important. Several factors go into making such a decision, and the professionals at Chud Cooling and Heating provide a range of expert services, including air conditioner repair near you, full home comfort system replacements, and more to keep your home comfortable all summer.

Factors To Consider: AC Repair vs. Replacement

While there are plenty of benefits of a new air conditioner, there are also many factors to consider when deciding between a repair and a replacement. Keep these considerations in mind to help you decide which option might be best for you:

Cost and Budget

In most cases, the full HVAC replacement cost will be higher than the cost of a repair. However, if you’re paying for frequent repairs, it might make more financial sense to go ahead and pay for an upgrade. A good rule of thumb is that if you’re paying around 50 percent or more of the cost of a new AC on repairs, it’s probably better to go ahead and replace the system altogether.

Incentives for Upgrading

Some local, state, and federal incentives are available to homeowners who qualify when they upgrade to a new, energy-efficient air conditioner. These incentives may be in the form of manufacturer rebates, tax credits, and more. These extras may offset the cost of a new air conditioner enough to make the upgrade well worth the investment.

Comfort Issues

If your current AC is giving you problems and repeatedly performing poorly, replacing it makes more sense. There’s no need to suffer through the heat of summer when you can enjoy a reliable, consistent air conditioner. If your AC is not cooling your home and you’ve had it repaired before, it might be time to pay for an upgrade.

Signs It’s Time for AC Repair

Here are some signs you should call Chud Cooling and Heating for central air repair:

Uneven Cooling

You should schedule a repair if your AC starts blowing warm instead of cool air or if the airflow feels weak or uneven. This issue may be due to low refrigerant levels, a malfunctioning compressor, or a dirty air filter.

Odd Noises or Smells

Unusual sounds like screeching, hissing, banging, or clanking often indicate some form of internal damage that should be addressed. Musty or moldy smells may mean there’s a condensation issue, a leak, or a problem with the ductwork or air handler.

Operational Issues

An air conditioner that turns on and off frequently (short-cycling) or runs constantly without ever turning off is not working properly. This issue may be due to low refrigerant, airflow issues, dirty components, or a faulty thermostat.

Signs It’s Time for AC Replacement

Sometimes, your air conditioner simply cannot (or should not) be repaired. Look for these signs that you need a new AC unit.

Rising Energy Bills

If your monthly energy bill suddenly spikes without a change in usage, it may be related to energy efficiency issues with your AC. This problem could be something simple, but it’s often a sign that your air conditioner is nearing the end of its lifespan.

Frequent Breakdowns

Dealing with frequent AC breakdowns is not only stressful — it’s also costing you money. If your AC consistently breaks down and you’re paying for repairs more than you normally would, it’s a good idea to consider a replacement.

Leaks

Any sign of water or refrigerant leaking, dripping, or pooling around your air conditioner is a serious red flag. Some leaks are fixable and could require emergency AC repair, but others may end up costing you more than it would to simply replace the AC.

Energy Efficiency and Long-Term Savings

Replacing your air conditioner results in better energy efficiency and provides long-term savings that your wallet will appreciate. Upgrading to a newer system means that your AC will have a higher SEER rating, so it will run much more efficiently and help you save on energy costs. When you replace your air conditioner, you’ll pay less — and likely nothing — for repairs for quite some time while enjoying lasting comfort and peace of mind. This not only translates into a more pleasant summer but also long-term savings since your new AC will be much more consistent and reliable to stand the test of time.

How Age Affects Your Decision

How long do air conditioners last? The average lifespan of most air conditioners is between 10 and 15 years if the system is well-maintained. If your AC is getting older and nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s usually much better to go ahead and replace it. Older air conditioners are much less energy efficient and more prone to breakdowns, and some models still use outdated refrigerants that are no longer available. Consider the age of your AC and use this as a factor when you make your decision.

When To Call the Pros at Chud Cooling & Heating

Here’s when to call Chud Cooling and Heating, the best HVAC company in Bucks County:

• Odd smells, loud noises, or leaks are coming from your AC.
• The AC is not turning on or cooling your home evenly.
• Your energy bills are suddenly much higher than normal.
• You’ve changed the air filter, but you still notice airflow issues.
• Your air conditioner is short-cycling or stays on constantly.
• You’d like to know whether repairing or replacing your AC makes more sense, and you need an assessment.

Contact Chud Today!

Don’t let a broken air conditioner ruin your summer. Chud Cooling and Heating is the go-to expert for all AC service needs in Bucks County and beyond. If you need air conditioner repair or want to learn more about getting a replacement, contact us today!

Although summer in Abington often seems far away, sunny days and hot temperatures tend to arrive suddenly. By following an AC maintenance checklist in the spring, you can prepare your cooling system and household for the summer, optimize energy efficiency, and ensure reliable comfort during the hottest days. See our air conditioner maintenance guide to learn how to keep your system running smoothly and when to schedule a professional AC tune-up.

Why Spring AC Maintenance Matters

Seasonal AC maintenance services keep your cooling running smoothly when you need it most. Without proper maintenance, air conditioners lose efficiency and become prone to breakdowns. Here’s why you should plan for spring HVAC tune-ups ahead of the summer.

Prevent Emergency Breakdowns

A neglected AC is more likely to fail during peak summer temperatures when it becomes strained under heavy demand. With system failures commonly occurring due to neglected components, such as clogged air filters, refrigerant leaks, and dirty evaporator coils, many AC breakdowns and emergencies are preventable. Addressing these issues ahead of the summer helps you avoid interruptions in your cooling.

Improve Energy Efficiency

Dirt buildup, worn-out components, and other problems make your AC work harder to provide the same amount of cooling. With parts in good condition, however, well-maintained ACs operate efficiently, reducing energy consumption, minimizing strain and wear, and lowering cooling costs.

Extend System Lifespan

When underlying inefficiencies and dirt buildup strain and excessively wear the compressor, blower motor, evaporator coil, and other important parts, your system will likely fail several years earlier than its expected lifespan. Regular AC upkeep prevents undue wear on components, which helps to slow your system’s aging and potentially prolong its operating life.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Your AC for Summer

Homeowners can handle many basic AC tasks, such as changing air filters and cleaning the compressor unit, while more complex maintenance should be left to HVAC professionals. Follow these AC efficiency tips for summer to get your system ready and maximize its cooling performance.

Check and Replace Air Filters

Air filters trap dust, pet dander, and other airborne particles, preventing them from settling inside your AC system and circulating throughout your home. Over time, air filters become clogged, restricting airflow and straining the AC system.

Inspect and replace your air filter periodically, approximately every 30 to 90 days, depending on household pets, allergies, and other indoor air quality factors. Refer to the old air filter, your owner’s manual, or an HVAC technician to select a replacement filter that’s compatible with your system to optimize indoor air quality and airflow.

Inspect and Clean the Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor AC unit is one of the most important parts of your system, and even a few stray branches or leaves can impede its function or damage its components. Debris accumulated on top and around the unit, for example, can restrict airflow and lead to overheating, component damage, and system failure.

Regularly check the outdoor compressor unit. With the AC off, clear leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris from around the unit to allow for at least two feet of clearance. Leave more in-depth cleaning to an HVAC technician — condenser coils, capacitors, fan blades, and other parts are easily damaged without proper handling by a professional.

Check Thermostat Settings

Checking thermostat settings before the summer helps maintain indoor comfort while preventing unnecessary AC strain and energy consumption. The Department of Energy recommends keeping your home between 75 and 78 degrees during the day. If you have a smart thermostat, your settings can also activate a slightly higher set point, about 83 to 85 degrees, when nobody is home to minimize wear on your AC.

To test your thermostat settings and verify accurate temperature readings, set the thermostat to cooling mode and lower the temperature about 5 degrees less than the current room temperature. Listen for the AC to start within a minute to confirm, then return your thermostat settings to normal.

Inspect Air Ducts and Vents

Leaky or blocked ductwork reduces efficiency by letting conditioned air escape before reaching its destination, causing uneven cooling and accounting for up to 30% in extra cooling costs. Excessive humidity and dust likewise impede airflow and indoor air quality, and closed or blocked vents imbalance ductwork air pressure and strain your system. Inspect air ducts for:

• Visible gaps or disconnected sections.
• Cracks or holes.
• Dust or debris.
• Furniture, rugs, or other obstructions over vents.
• Weak airflow from vents.

Ductwork-specific tape or sealant can address minor duct damage — refer to a technician for more extensive problems. Excessive dust or restricted airflow may necessitate professional duct cleaning.

Test the System Before Peak Heat

Identify air conditioner issues before the summer with a few test cooling cycles. Turn the AC on and let it run for 15 to 30 minutes as you monitor its performance. Verify that your system cools quickly and evenly, runs quietly, and doesn’t emit strange odors.

When to Schedule Professional AC Maintenance

Schedule professional AC maintenance at least once per year, ideally in the spring and before peak cooling demand in the summer. Scheduling maintenance before summer allows technicians to identify and fix potential problems before they escalate into AC damage and breakdowns.

Other signs that your AC is due for maintenance include:

• Insufficient or uneven cooling.
• Constant running or frequent cycling.
• Grinding, buzzing, rattling, and other abnormal sounds.
• Strange odors, such as burning or mildew.
• Inexplicably higher energy bills.

Get Your AC Summer-Ready with Chud Cooling & Heating

Enjoy consistent and energy-efficient comfort this summer with just a few proactive AC tune-up steps in the spring, including scheduling professional maintenance with Chud Cooling and Heating. Contact us or schedule online today — with comprehensive inspections and tune-ups, we optimize your AC system’s reliability, efficiency, and longevity.

Summer in Pennsylvania is hot and humid, so we recommend scheduling AC maintenance before the first heat wave. It can save you money. A spring HVAC tune-up also ensures you’ll enjoy refreshing cool air at home instead of sweating it out until a technician arrives.

Needing an AC repair in the middle of summer can be inconvenient and costly. At Chud Cooling & Heating, we know what it takes for your air conditioning unit to work efficiently. We’ll explain what our HVAC experts do to keep your cooling system running smoothly, how AC maintenance can lower costs, and why you should never skip it.

What Is Included in an AC Maintenance Tune-Up?

An air conditioning tune-up includes all the maintenance tasks needed to check the health of your AC system, including the following:

• Replacing or cleaning air filters
• Measuring refrigerant levels
• Cleaning the air handler and outdoor condenser unit
• Inspecting the evaporator and condenser coils
• Cleaning the coils as needed
• Inspecting and tightening electrical connections
• Testing motor voltage and amperage
• Lubricating motor bearings and other moving parts
• Checking for proper airflow and pressure
• Cleaning the condensate pan and drain line
• Testing the system’s safety controls

An air conditioning system consists of complex, hard-working machinery. By checking filters, coils, and refrigerant levels, a technician can find and address issues that disrupt its cooling performance. Doing so reduces the workload and strain that can damage components and lead to a system malfunction or breakdown.

How AC Maintenance Saves You Money

Cost savings is one of the greatest benefits of AC maintenance. A spring tune-up can save you money throughout the system’s life because it can do the following:

• Improve Energy Efficiency: Air conditioning maintenance, similar to heating maintenance in the fall, helps the system run more smoothly, so it’s more energy efficient. Therefore, your utility bills may be lower. This means you can allot more of your budget to a home improvement project or a summer vacation.
• Prevent Costly AC Repairs: Catching issues early means a technician can make small adjustments or minor repairs to restore optimal performance. Also, reduced strain helps larger, more expensive components like the blower motor or compressor last longer. You avoid paying high parts and labor costs.
• Extend the Lifespan of Your HVAC System: A lack of maintenance can lead to issues throughout the system, shortening its operating life. Spring AC tune-ups help protect it and can prevent having to invest in early HVAC system replacement. Air conditioning maintenance may save you thousands of dollars in expenses.

Signs Your AC Needs Maintenance Before Summer Hits

Schedule your spring HVAC tune-up if you haven’t already done so. However, the right time for AC maintenance depends on the system’s health. Don’t wait to request a service call if you notice any of the following signs:

• Weak Airflow: Dirt in your AC system can reduce the force of air blowing from vents. Mechanical issues can also restrict airflow.
• Inconsistent Cooling: A clogged filter, faulty thermostat, or dirty coils can cause your air conditioner to blow warm air. Schedule AC maintenance if the air temperature is too warm, fluctuates, or is inconsistent throughout your home.
• Strange Noises: A screeching sound can mean a belt is out of alignment. Rattling, grinding, and other loud noises can be due to loose parts or other mechanical problems.
• Odors Coming from the AC Unit: If your AC smells musty, mold may be growing in it due to moisture issues. A burning smell indicates an electrical problem. Strange odors mean the system needs to be cleaned or repaired.
• Rising Energy Bills: An increase in energy costs, despite normal usage, means something is causing your air conditioner to work harder and use more energy.
• Frequent Cycling On and Off: Short cycling strains an AC system and increases wear and tear. It can be caused by low refrigerant, a malfunctioning thermostat, and various other issues.

How Often Should You Get AC Maintenance?

Most industry professionals agree on scheduling an air conditioning tune-up once a year. Ideally, it should be done before you turn the system on for the first time.

Spring is the best time to schedule maintenance. Any issues can be addressed before you start using your AC system. This eliminates the risk of a hidden problem escalating to more significant damage or a breakdown.

Flexible scheduling is another benefit. Once it gets hot, HVAC technicians are busy responding to calls from customers whose air conditioners aren’t working. Requesting spring maintenance avoids longer wait times and limited availability. It also enables you to get your AC fixed, if necessary, before you need it.

Can Skipping AC Maintenance Lead to Expensive Repairs?

Neglecting regular AC tune-ups risks dealing with expensive repairs. A small issue, such as a dirty condenser coil, can be easily addressed. If not resolved, it can lead to issues such as overheating, which can cause your air conditioner to stop working.

Blocked air flow or a refrigerant leak can cause an evaporator coil to freeze, even in summer. Ice can do severe damage to the coil. It may then have to be replaced. During maintenance, a technician can resolve a refrigerant leak or issues that restrict airflow.

If your AC is making noise, neglecting the problem can lead to smaller parts breaking and damaging larger components. Loose parts can be tightened to avoid such a situation. Meanwhile, minor electrical issues can cause a system failure if not taken care of quickly.

The key takeaway here is that most major AC repairs are preventable, so don’t forget to schedule your spring HVAC tune-up.

Call Today to Schedule AC Maintenance

An air conditioning tune-up can improve efficiency, avoid costly repairs, and extend the system’s lifespan. Therefore, annual maintenance may yield substantial long-term savings. The professionals at Chud Cooling & Heating can keep your AC in top shape and help ensure your comfort and well-being. They are also committed to helping you save. Our team provides any other HVAC or plumbing service you need as well.

Contact us today to request an AC maintenance appointment or learn about our AC maintenance plans.

The HVAC industry is on the brink of a significant change, and homeowners need to be aware of the upcoming refrigerant shift. Starting January 1, 2025, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is phasing out R-410A refrigerant in favor of more environmentally friendly alternatives, including R-454B and R-32. This transition is part of a broader effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit global warming. At Chud Cooling & Heating, we’re here to help you understand how these changes may affect your HVAC system and what steps you can take to prepare.

Why Is R-410A Being Phased Out?

R-410A, widely used in air conditioners and heat pumps, has a high global warming potential (GWP). When released into the atmosphere, it contributes significantly to climate change. In contrast, the new refrigerants—R-454B and R-32—have much lower GWP, making them more eco-friendly. This refrigerant phase-out aligns with the EPA’s goal of reducing the environmental impact of HVAC systems.

Important Dates to Remember

Several key dates are associated with this refrigerant change, so it’s essential to plan accordingly:

• January 1, 2025: Any HVAC equipment manufactured after this date must use R-454B, R-32, or another approved low-GWP refrigerant. R-410A will no longer be used in new systems.
• January 1, 2026: Equipment made before 2025 using R-410A can still be installed during this one-year grace period, but after 2026, only systems using the new refrigerants will be eligible for installation.
• Window Units: Window air conditioners and other small systems that don’t require field assembly will be permitted for sale until January 1, 2028.

What Happens to Existing Systems?

If your current HVAC system uses R-410A or even the older R-22, you won’t need to replace it right away. These systems can continue operating as long as they are functional. However, it’s important to note that as the production of R-410A winds down, the refrigerant will become more expensive and harder to source. Repairs and maintenance may cost more, particularly if refrigerant replenishment is required.

For homeowners with older systems, it may be worth considering an upgrade to a system that uses newer, eco-friendly refrigerants to avoid higher costs down the line.

What Are the New Refrigerants?

R-454B and R-32, the refrigerants that will replace R-410A, belong to the A2L class, which is characterized by mild flammability. Despite this classification, these refrigerants are safe for residential use, meeting stringent safety standards. They also have a lower toxicity rating compared to older B-series refrigerants, offering an improved safety profile.

To help identify the new refrigerants, A2L cylinders will have a distinct appearance, featuring light green-gray coloring with red tops.

Cost Implications

Switching to HVAC systems that use R-454B or R-32 could increase upfront costs. It’s estimated that these new systems may cost $2,000 to $3,000 more than traditional R-410A models. However, the long-term savings on refrigerant replenishment, as well as the environmental benefits, make these systems a smart investment.

Preparing for the Change

The transition to eco-friendly refrigerants is necessary to protect our environment, but it also raises important considerations for homeowners. At Chud Cooling & Heating, we recommend planning ahead by assessing your current system’s efficiency and lifespan. If your air conditioner or heat pump is nearing the end of its useful life, upgrading to a system designed for the new refrigerants may save you money and reduce your carbon footprint.

Contact Chud Cooling & Heating Today

If you have questions about how the 2025 refrigerant change will affect your HVAC system, Chud Cooling & Heating is here to help. Our team of experts can guide you through your options, whether you’re considering a system upgrade or need maintenance for your existing unit.

Give us a call today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you stay ahead!

The last thing you want is a broken air conditioner on a hot day, and scheduling and paying for AC repair can seem tedious right at the moment. Still, repairing your air conditioner sooner rather than later could save you a lot of money later. Isn’t reducing the number of repairs overall and extending the life of your air conditioning system an incentive to schedule some professional help when your air conditioner needs it?

At Chud Cooling & Heating, we want to keep your air conditioner unit functioning for as long as possible. Our family-owned business strives to provide the best service and honest recommendations to every client we serve.

Here’s more about when to schedule a repair for your cooling system for the best outcomes.

The Best Time to Schedule AC Repair

The best time to schedule AC repair is as soon as you notice something is off with your system. Don’t let weird noises or lukewarm air persist. 

Typically, air conditioners will get worse when you let their symptoms linger. Your AC needs repair when:

• You hear noises you haven’t heard before, like rattling or banging.
• You smell burning or rotten smells when the air comes on.
• The air isn’t as cool as it usually is, or it blows out hot.
• The unit won’t stay on long enough to cool the house.

Many of these problems are due to leaking refrigerant, a failing compressor, or electrical issues. All of these problems will worsen over time if left unchecked.

Schedule Cooling Installations in the Off-Season

Air conditioners last 10 years, on average. You can squeeze longer out of them with excellent care, but no unit will last forever. Once your unit is at the end of its rope and you need to install a new one, be sure to schedule your HVAC contractor for the spring or fall.

HVAC technicians are busy with air conditioning emergencies all summer and, on the opposite end of the spectrum, servicing furnaces in the winter. Spring is often the best time for an air conditioning installation because of the open schedule. Fall is a good second choice.

It’s also best to schedule the installation long before you need the unit to work. You want to be ready for the summer.

Spring Is for AC Maintenance

How can you avoid frequent AC repair? Get annual maintenance in the spring and give the technician plenty of time to fit you into the schedule. These sessions give your air conditioner a thorough check, including:

• Cleaning.
• Troubleshooting.
• Replacing broken or worn-out parts.

Your technician will let you know if they need to repair or replace anything. That’s why spring maintenance prevents urgent AC repairs in the middle of summer when HVAC companies are at their busiest.

Call Chud Cooling & Heating for AC Repair

When you need AC repair, maintenance, or installation, call Chud Cooling & Heating. We’re family-owned and operated and have served our loyal customers for over 50 years. Rely on for honest recommendations and sustainable air conditioning options to keep you cool all summer.

Call (215) 659-4343 to schedule Chud Cooling & Heating’s air conditioner experts!

If you’ve been debating getting air conditioning service, it helps to know all the services that are included. Air conditioning service comes with more than just a simple check-up.

What does an air conditioning service include? Find out in this brief explanation by Chud Cooling & Heating.

Air Conditioning Services: What’s Included

There are many services included when you get a professional to check your air conditioner, including the following.

Thermostat Check

Since the thermostat is the brain of the operation of your HVAC system, professionals will check this part to ensure it works. Your HVAC tech will check the thermostat’s wiring and batteries, as well as how the unit responds to temperature settings and other inputs.

Dust Check

Nothing’s more dangerous to your AC than dust. When you schedule maintenance with a professional, they’ll check your air filter and other components, clearing them of dust so they can function properly.

Electrical Connection Check

Everything from your blower motor to your condenser relies on electrical connections. Your HVAC professional will check the capacitors and all connections to ensure everything is working suitably.

Condenser/Evaporator Coil Check

Your condenser and evaporator coils are responsible for ensuring your compressor can produce cool air. Your professional will check these to make sure they aren’t frozen, overheating, in need of repairs, or covered in dust.

Airflow Test

Your air conditioner is only as good as the airflow it can provide. Even if you have the most powerful AC on the market, it doesn’t matter much if your blower motor and vents are shot. During a maintenance test, your professional will ensure that all airflow paths are clear so nothing overheats.

Safety Check

A malfunctioning AC can be dangerous, which is why HVAC pros take safety checks very seriously. During this step, your technician will conduct checks on all electrical components. They’ll also remove all dust from the system and clean or replace the air filter if necessary.

Refrigerant Check

Without refrigerant, your air conditioner is nothing more than a fan. If you have low refrigerant, there may be a leak; your technician will refill the compressor and check for the source of the issue.

Condensate Drain Line Check

If you have a malfunctioning condensate line, you’ll notice the water pooling underneath your unit. During air conditioning service, your professional will check to ensure your drain line is working so that you don’t have to deal with water damage later. 

Work With Chud Cooling & Heating

Now that you know about what’s involved in air conditioning service, why not schedule services from Chud Cooling & Heating? We’re capable of performing routine maintenance for your air conditioning unit, and if you want an upgrade, we’ll help you pick the best model for your home.

Whether you need an air filter replacement or are considering AC installation, Chud Cooling & Heating is the place to go for all of your HVAC needs. To call us for a consultation, reach out at 215-659-4343.

If you’re planning to install a new AC unit, then you most certainly have a few thoughts going through your head. How can you choose the right system? Which HVAC installation company will you use?

An even more common question is, “Should I replace ductwork when replacing my AC?” We’ll cover all the details you need to know in this post.

Replacing Your Ductwork During AC Replacement Is Not Compulsory

If you’re already running the numbers and wondering if you truly need to replace your ductwork while getting a new air conditioner, pump the brakes. You don’t have to replace your ductwork when installing your new air conditioner.

Robust duct systems can last up to 30 years or more.  Air conditioners need replacing within 15 years. So, there’s a high probability that your ductwork can still serve you for another decade or more after your AC replacement.

Signs You Need to Replace Your Ductwork While Replacing Your Air Conditioner

You’ll need to include the cost of new ductwork in your calculations if any of the following applies in your situation.

Your Ductwork Is Already Too Old

Is your ductwork two or three decades old? Maybe you don’t even know when it was installed. In that case, you’ll likely need to replace it as well. Newer air conditioning systems are significantly different from older units from one or two decades ago. The ductwork requirements for both will reflect these differences.

An old, worn-out ductwork system may affect the performance and longevity of your new unit. Therefore, most HVAC technicians will recommend replacing everything at once.

Your Ductwork Is Too Big or Too Small

If you’re wondering, “Should I replace ductwork when replacing my AC?” you should ask yourself if the ductwork is the right size for the air conditioning unit you’re considering. In most cases, that’s a decision you’ll have to leave to experienced technicians who understand HVAC system sizing better than you do.

If the ductwork is the wrong size, you’ve handicapped your new air conditioner. Therefore, it’s more cost-effective to replace the ductwork instead.  

You Have Damaged or Corroded Ductwork

Even when the ductwork is still relatively new, it may have sustained some damage over the years. In that case, you may be better off replacing it while changing your air conditioning unit. Leaky or damaged ductwork could mean:

• Mold and bacteria growth
• Noisy AC operation
• Cold spots instead of more even cooling
• Higher energy bills

Your Ductwork Has Major Structural Issues

If your old ductwork was poorly designed, now is a good time to install a new system that’s the perfect fit for every part of your home.  Using poorly installed ductwork with your new AC could mean losing a significant chunk of any conditioned air.

What Is the Alternative to Ductwork Replacement?

The alternative to ductwork replacement is to clean the existing setup and fix any damages. However, repairs aren’t always cost-effective.

Get Expert Guidance From Your Local Experts

Are you still wondering, “Should I replace ductwork when replacing my AC?” Call Chud Cooling & Heating in Abington, PA, today at 215-659-4343 for personalized guidance. Let us help!

The first modern air conditioning system emerged more than a century ago. This cooling system worked effectively, but it also generated lots of noise.

Over time, air conditioner manufacturers worked on quieting AC systems down. The average AC unit only generates about 30 decibels today because of this.

However, there may be times when the HVAC system in your home is noisier than usual. Listen to what it’s trying to tell you to determine whether or not something might be wrong.

Find out more about the noises that AC systems make and discover what they might mean.

Identifying Common AC Noises

Under normal circumstances, the AC system in your home should give you the ability to perform climate control without producing too much noise. After it has been running for a few minutes, the noise it makes should blend into the background and go unnoticed.

The only time you’ll need to worry is when you hear your home’s AC system make noises that are out of the ordinary. Here are several noises that should cause you to raise an eyebrow:

• Buzzing or humming
• Rattling or banging
• Clicking
• Hissing
• Squealing or grinding

These are the kinds of sounds you won’t want to hear your AC system make. They may indicate a need for AC repairs.

Understanding the Causes of AC Noises

If you ever hear your home’s AC system making any sounds, you may begin to panic. The good news is that these sounds might tell you exactly what’s wrong with your system.

Next, let’s take a look at what each of the common AC noises can mean.

Why Is My AC Buzzing or Humming?

If you ever find that your AC system is making a buzzing or humming noise, there could be any number of things causing it. Some problems that can lead to an AC system buzzing or humming are:

• Loose or worn-out parts
• Electrical issues
• Debris stuck in the outdoor portion of the system

Simply replacing a part in your AC system or cleaning up the outside of it can work wonders for this particular problem. However, since several issues can cause buzzing or humming, you may need to call in the pros to diagnose the problem.

Why Is My AC Rattling or Banging?

If you hear a rattling or banging noise when you fire up your home’s AC system, it may alarm you. This is one of the loudest sounds that can come from a cooling system.

In this case, you might have one of these problems on your hands:

• Loose fan blade
• Loose motor mount
• Debris trapped in the system

You may not be able to ignore rattling or banging noises emanating from your air conditioner for long. Seek assistance from a licensed HVAC technician who can diagnose the issue and correct it.

Why Is My AC Clicking?

If you have a clicking noise coming from your home’s AC system, it’s often a surefire sign there is an electrical problem. An electrical relay within your system may have failed.

Clicking sounds coming from an AC system can also suggest something might be wrong with its capacitor. A capacitor is responsible for sending power to an AC system’s motor, so you’ll need to remedy this situation quickly to ensure your AC system continues to start.

Why Is My AC Hissing?

If you hear a hissing sound stemming from your home’s AC system, it might mean you have a refrigerant leak. This is one of the hardest AC noises to hear, but thankfully, it won’t be the only sign that refrigerant may be leaking from your system.

A refrigerant leak in your AC system may also stop your system from cooling your home when you turn it on. If this is happening, get in touch with an HVAC system repair company right away to schedule an inspection and repair.

Why Is My AC Squealing or Grinding?

If your home’s AC system is squealing or grinding, it can be almost as annoying as hearing it rattling or banging. You might find it impossible to relax at home with your AC system making this much noise.

A squealing or grinding sound coming from your AC system can mean:

• Broken or loose belt
• Misaligned pulley
• Worn-out motor bearing

Don’t delay calling an AC system repair service to assist you. The squealing and grinding you’re hearing might only get worse if you don’t do anything about it.

When To Take Action and Address AC Noises

Springing into action immediately when you hear your home’s AC system making strange sounds can help you mitigate the problem before it worsens. Check out the steps you should take as soon as you hear them:

1. Investigate the potential sources of your AC noises.
2. Consider shutting off your AC system to avoid further issues.
3. Get in touch with an AC repair company and schedule an appointment.

Ignoring AC noises and putting off necessary repairs can cause further damage to your system and possibly even necessitate expensive AC repairs down the line.

The Importance of Seeking a Professional Diagnosis and Repair for a Noisy AC

After hearing what can cause certain AC noises, you may mull over taking the DIY approach to making AC repairs. These are the dangers that can come along with doing this:

• Additional damage done to your AC system
• Reduced efficiency from your AC system
• Premature AC system failure

Instead, allow an experienced HVAC technician to work on your AC system. They can identify why your AC system is making sounds and come up with a solution to fix it.

Let Us Look at Your Home’s Noisy AC System

When you live in your home long enough, you’ll eventually hear sounds you don’t recognize coming from your AC system. Knowing what could be causing them can help you identify what might be the problem with it.

Chud Cooling & Heating can step in and tackle AC repairs if the sounds you’re hearing indicate an issue. Touch base with us at 215-659-4343 to make an appointment in Abington, PA.