Top Signs Your AC Needs Repair Before Summer Hits

When the summer heat arrives in Des Moines, you want to be 100% sure your air conditioner is ready to keep you cool. If it’s been sitting unused since last year, it might have developed issues you haven’t noticed yet. Finding these problems early can save you from a big headache (and big expenses) later on.

Let’s go over the top warning signs that your AC needs repair—and why spring is the best time to tackle them!

Why Spring Is the Perfect Time for AC Maintenance

Springtime in Des Moines brings milder weather, blooming flowers, and a great opportunity to tune up your AC before the summer. Over the winter, your air conditioner rests. If something went wrong at the end of last season, you might not find out until you try to use it again.

Getting a head start in spring has several benefits:

• You can catch small issues before they turn into major repairs.
  
  
• You’ll beat the summer rush, when HVAC companies are super busy.
  
  
• Your system will run more smoothly, using less energy once the hot days begin.
  
  

Waiting until it’s already hot outside can mean long wait times for service, higher repair costs, or even emergency fees. Spring is the calm before the storm, so take advantage of it!

Top Signs Your AC Needs Repair

1. Your AC Isn’t Cooling Like It Should

If your home still feels warm even though the air conditioner is running, something’s not right. You might feel air coming out of the vents, but it’s not cool enough. This could mean:

• Low refrigerant (the chemical that helps cool the air).
  
  
• A dirty filter that blocks airflow.
  
  
• A failing compressor (the heart of your AC system).
  
  

Ignoring this warning sign can cause bigger problems when summer really heats up. An AC that struggles now will have an even harder time keeping you comfortable later.

2. Weak Airflow from Vents

When you set your AC to full blast, you should feel a nice breeze from the vents. If it’s just a small puff of air, your system might have:

• A clogged filter (blocking air from flowing properly).
  
  
• A broken motor that needs repair.
  
  
• Leaks or blockages in your ductwork.
  
  

Weak airflow can also raise your energy bills because your AC will run longer to cool your home. Fixing it now will help you stay cool and save money.

3. Strange Noises or Smells

Have you ever heard weird sounds, like banging, rattling, or squeaking, right after your AC starts running? These noises might point to loose parts, worn-out belts, or other mechanical problems.

Meanwhile, unpleasant smells can mean mold or mildew inside your system. Mold can harm your indoor air quality and your family’s health. Don’t wait too long—call a professional if your AC is making strange noises or giving off odd smells.

4. It Turns On and Off Too Often

If your AC keeps starting and stopping every few minutes, it’s probably short cycling. This can be caused by:

• A faulty thermostat that’s giving the wrong temperature readings.
  
  
• A dirty condenser that’s getting too hot and forcing the system to shut down.
  
  
• An air conditioner that is too large or too small for your home (less common, but still possible).
  
  

Short cycling wastes energy, increases your electric bill, and puts extra wear on your air conditioner’s parts, shortening the unit’s lifespan.

5. Your Energy Bills Are Climbing

Has your electric bill gone up even though your AC usage hasn’t changed much? That’s a sign your unit isn’t running efficiently. It might be working extra hard to keep the house cool, which uses more electricity. A professional inspection can help find the cause—maybe it’s a refrigerant leak or a dirty coil—and fix it before it gets worse.

6. You See Water or Leaks Around the Unit

Spotting puddles of water or signs of moisture near your AC unit is a red flag. You might have:

• A clogged drain line that needs cleaning.
  
  
• A more serious refrigerant leak, which can be harmful if left alone.
  
  

Both water damage and refrigerant leaks can lead to bigger, costlier issues. If you notice any unexplained moisture, it’s time to schedule a service call.

Why Fixing Your AC Now Can Save You Later

Here’s the bottom line: Small AC problems can grow into big, expensive repairs if you ignore them. A loose part or dirty filter might not seem like a big deal, but it can eventually lead to a major system breakdown—often on the hottest day of the year.

By repairing your AC in spring, you can:

• Spend less on repairs. Fixing a minor issue is usually cheaper than dealing with a major malfunction.
  
  
• Get faster service. HVAC technicians are less busy in spring, so you can schedule an appointment sooner.
  
  
• Enjoy a worry-free summer. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your AC can handle the Des Moines summer heat.
  
  

Schedule Your Spring AC Check-Up Today

If you’ve spotted any of these warning signs, don’t wait until your AC gives out on a scorching July day! City Wide Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. offers AC repair in Des Moines and nearby areas, and our team is ready to help. We’ll inspect, diagnose, and fix any problems so your unit is ready for whatever summer throws our way.

Call us now or schedule online to book your spring AC inspection. It’s a simple step that can save you tons of stress—and help you stay nice and cool during those hot Iowa months.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let a broken air conditioner spoil your summer fun. By watching for early signs of trouble, you can stop small issues before they become huge emergencies.

City Wide Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. is here to handle all your HVAC needs. Reach out today, and let us take care of your AC—before summer arrives in full force!