Ways to check if your AC is working properly

The scorching summers and occasional heatwaves are just a month away. You don’t want to return home from outdoors only to find out that your AC has stopped working. Like any appliance, air conditioners can develop issues over time. This is why annual maintenance is always recommended. Furthermore, one can always check if their AC unit is working properly.

It’s easier to spot the most common issues. There are also some fixes that can be performed carefully. Additionally, the need to check if your AC is in proper working condition is vital if it has become quite old. After all, the appliance is crucial for keeping your home cool and comfortable.

How to check if the AC is working properly

To ensure that your AC is working efficiently, here are some simple ways to check its performance. 

ALSO READ: Different types of air conditioners – A guide to choosing the best AC

1. Check the airflow
2. Be aware of unusual noises
3. Check electricity bills
4. Inspect any water leakage or ice buildup
5. Sufficient refrigerant gas level
6. Strange odours and hot outdoor unit

Check the airflow

This is the simplest and the first step to checking if the air conditioner is working properly or not. A properly working unit will deliver strong airflow when you place your hands close to the vents. Weak or inconsistent airflow even when the thermostat is set to low temperature could indicate issues like clogged air filters, blocked ducts etc.

Be aware of unusual noises

A functional air conditioner should operate smoothly with no to minimal noise. If you start hearing any unusual noise like grinding or rattling, it could be a sign of a problem within the AC unit due to loose screws, a failing motor unit, or dirt inside the unit.

Check electricity bills

If your electricity bills have skyrocketed suddenly, it could be due to an older home appliance which is usually the case. And after a brief winter break, it’s easier to know that this could be due to the air conditioner that may be running inefficiently. This can be attributed to various reasons and an ageing unit causing spikes in energy consumption.

Inspect water leakage or ice buildup

This is a common issue found in every AC. Both the indoor and outdoor units can leak water when the air conditioner is turned on. This might be due to drainage problems or refrigerant issues. It’s best left to the technician to fix this problem as it can only be solved by checking any blockages in the drain pipe and thawing the ice accumulated on the largest pipe in the outdoor unit.

Sufficient refrigerant gas level

A refrigerant gas is crucial for absorbing heat and providing effective cooling. Low levels may force the system to work harder, reduce efficiency, and increase energy consumption. This is often marked by longer cooling times, and oily residue around components and refrigerant lines indicating leaks. Only a certified professional can handle this by performing a pressure test and recharging the gas.

Strange odours and hot outdoor unit

Your air conditioner should not produce any strong or unpleasant smells. A foul smell could indicate mould in ducts whereas a burning smell could be a sign of electrical issues. Additionally, the outdoor condenser unit should not be excessively hot. A good practice is to put on a cover or some shade over the unit as temperatures hit record highs. However, it should not block the airflow in any way.

You can effortlessly monitor your air conditioner’s working condition with the help of the methods outlined above to detect any potential issues. It’s recommended not to mess with the internal components of the unit as you won’t be able to diagnose anything going inside the condenser. Opening the unit may not only void the warranty but could also lead to further damage.