AC repairs may be costly, but they're a key part of keeping your AC in good shape so you can cool your home during the summer. According to This Old House, AC repair costs can range from $100 to more than $1,000. If you want to keep your AC working, here's how you can tell when your AC needs repairs.

Energy Bill Spikes

Most homeowners know how much it costs to heat and cool their home, so it should be easy to spot any serious changes in your energy bill. If you're suddenly spending twice as much to cool your home, it may be time for AC repair. To remain on top of this concern, it may be wise to keep your energy bills to gain an understanding of your energy spending habits throughout the year.

Lack of Cooling Power

A lack of cooling power can be caused by several things, from refrigerant leaks to dirty air filters. The bottom line is that a dip in cooling power is a sign of an AC problem. Call an HVAC technician if your AC isn't cooling your home like it usually does.

Odors

You shouldn't notice any strong odors coming from your AC; if you do, that's a sign of a problem. You might have a dirty air filter, dirty air ducts, or a clogged condensate drain line. Call a professional ac repair company the moment you notice the order to prevent the problem from growing.

Noises

Your AC should make a little noise while running, but those noises should be relatively quiet and consistent. If you hear any strange noises coming from your AC, such as banging, squealing, scraping, hissing, or buzzing, you need to call a professional. These noises could be an indicator that ice has formed in the machine, or a part has broken down.

Leaks

Leaks are a sign that your AC isn't working properly, whether it's a condensate or refrigerant leak. If your condensate drain line is clogged or refrigerant leaks from your AC, call a professional immediately. Handling refrigerant is dangerous if you don't know what you're doing, so don't try to repair leaks on your own.

The last thing you want is a lousy AC when summer rolls around. Learning about common signs of AC problems can help you decide when it's time for AC repair. This will guarantee you won't have to worry about your AC failing when you need it most. If you notice any of these common signs of AC problems, give Terry's Plumbing Air & Energy a call and schedule service today.