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Top Signs Your AC Isn’t Performing at Its Best

June 16, 2025

BY MITCH WRIGHT PLUMBING, HEATING & AIR

As summer temperatures soar, your air conditioning system is your first line of defense against the heat. But when your AC starts underperforming, it can turn your home from a cool oasis into an uncomfortable sauna. 

At Mitch Wright Plumbing, Heating & Air, we’ve been keeping homes comfortable for years, and we know the telltale signs of an AC that’s struggling. Catching these issues early can save you from costly repairs and sweltering days. 

Below, we dive into the top signs your AC isn’t performing at its best, why they happen, and how a professional tune-up can get your system back on track.

Unusual Noises and Smells

Your air conditioner should run smoothly, delivering cool air with a steady, quiet hum. If you’re noticing strange noises or unpleasant odors, it’s a clear signal that something’s wrong. These issues can stem from a variety of problems, and ignoring them could lead to major breakdowns. Here’s what to watch for:

● Grinding or Screeching Noises: These often indicate worn-out bearings or a misaligned belt. Left unchecked, these can cause serious damage to your AC’s motor or compressor.

● Rattling or Banging: Loose or broken components, like fan blades or screws, could be rattling around inside your unit, risking further damage.

● Hissing Sounds: This might point to a refrigerant leak, which not only reduces cooling efficiency but can also be hazardous.

● Musty or Moldy Smells: These suggest mold or mildew growth in your ducts or on the evaporator coil, which can affect air quality and your health.

● Burning Odors: A burning smell could signal overheating components or electrical issues, which require immediate attention to prevent fire hazards.

If you notice any of these, don’t wait—unusual noises and smells are your AC’s way of crying for help. A professional inspection from Mitch Wright Plumbing, Heating & Air can pinpoint the cause and prevent a small issue from becoming a major repair.

Rising Energy Bills Despite Constant Settings

Have you been shocked by higher-than-usual energy bills, even though your thermostat settings haven’t changed? This is one of the most common signs your AC is losing efficiency. When your system has to work harder to maintain the same temperature, it consumes more energy, driving up your costs. Several factors could be at play:

● Clogged Air Filters: Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing your AC to run longer to cool your home.

● Low Refrigerant Levels: Leaks or insufficient refrigerant reduce your system’s ability to cool efficiently, making it work overtime.

● Worn-Out Components: Aging parts, like a failing capacitor or motor, can reduce performance, increasing energy use.

● Poor Insulation or Duct Leaks: If cool air is escaping through leaky ducts or poorly insulated walls, your AC has to compensate by running more frequently.

A sudden spike in your energy bills is a red flag that your AC needs attention. Scheduling a mid-summer tune-up with our team can identify these inefficiencies, restore your system’s performance, and help you save on utility costs. Plus, a well-maintained AC is kinder to the environment, reducing your household’s energy footprint.

Poor Airflow or Uneven Cooling

Nothing’s more frustrating than walking into a room that feels like a furnace while another is ice-cold. Poor airflow or uneven cooling can make your home uncomfortable and indicate underlying issues with your AC. Weak airflow from vents or inconsistent temperatures across rooms often point to problems that need professional attention. Common causes include:

● Blocked or Dirty Ducts: Dust, debris, or even collapsed ductwork can restrict airflow, reducing cooling power.

● Failing Compressor: The compressor is the heart of your AC, and if it’s struggling, your system may not push enough cool air through your home.

● Thermostat Issues: A malfunctioning or poorly placed thermostat can cause your AC to cool unevenly or cycle improperly.

● Undersized or Aging System: If your AC is too small for your home or nearing the end of its lifespan (typically 10-15 years), it may struggle to keep up with demand.

Uneven cooling doesn’t just affect your comfort—it also puts extra strain on your system, leading to premature wear and tear. Our technicians at Mitch Wright Plumbing, Heating & Air can diagnose the root cause, whether it’s a simple fix like cleaning ducts or a sign that it’s time to consider a system upgrade.

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

Addressing these issues early is key to keeping your AC running smoothly and your home comfortable. Regular maintenance, like a mid-summer tune-up, can catch small problems before they escalate, improve energy efficiency, and extend the life of your system. 

During a tune-up, our skilled technicians will inspect your AC, clean critical components, check refrigerant levels, and ensure everything is running at peak performance. This proactive approach not only prevents unexpected breakdowns but also keeps your energy bills in check.

Get Back to Cool—Schedule a Mid-Summer AC Tune-Up Today!

Don’t let a struggling AC turn your summer into a sweaty ordeal. At Mitch Wright Plumbing, Heating & Air, we’re committed to keeping Cache Valley homes cool and comfortable, no matter how high the temperatures climb. Our experienced technicians are ready to diagnose any issue and provide fast, reliable solutions to restore your AC’s performance.

Ready to beat the heat? Contact us today at (901) 795-9044 or visit our website to schedule your mid-summer AC tune-up. Let us help you stay cool and save money all summer long!

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