Top 5 Signs Your A/C Needs Professional Attention

Holly Seal
Jul 21
2 min read

Your A/C system is one of the hardest-working parts of your home, especially in Louisiana’s heat and humidity. But how do you know when something’s off before your system completely quits on you?

At Comfort Tech A/C & Heating, we believe in catching issues early, saving you time, stress, and money. Here are five warning signs your air conditioner might be calling for help:

1. Unusual Noises

If your A/C used to run quietly and now sounds like a percussion band, don’t ignore it.

What to listen for:

Banging or clanking (loose or broken parts)
Buzzing (electrical issues or debris)
Screeching (worn-out belts or bearings)

Strange noises often mean a component is wearing out or something is loose, and the longer it runs that way, the worse (and more expensive) the damage can become.

2. Weak or Inconsistent Airflow

Do some rooms feel like a sauna while others feel like a freezer? Or is the air barely coming out of the vents?

Weak airflow can point to:

Clogged filters
Blocked ductwork
Failing blower motors
Frozen coils

Ignoring it means your A/C will work harder for worse results, and your energy bill will reflect it.

3. Rising Energy Bills

If your energy bill suddenly spikes but your usage hasn’t changed, your A/C system could be the reason.

Common culprits include:

Dirty coils
Refrigerant leaks
Aging or overworked systems
Poor airflow

An inefficient system consumes more power to keep you cool, driving your monthly bills up. A tune-up could restore efficiency and lower costs.

4. Inconsistent Temperatures

If your thermostat says 72°F but it feels like 82°F, or rooms can’t seem to hold a steady temperature, it may be more than just the weather.

Possible causes:

Faulty thermostats
Dirty sensors
Airflow or refrigerant issues
Undersized or aging systems

Comfort Tech can run a diagnostic and recommend the right fix to restore balance to your home.

5. Strange Smells Coming From Vents

Unpleasant odors coming from your A/C should never be ignored.

You might notice:

Musty or mildew smells (mold or mildew in ducts or drain lines)
Burning smells (electrical or motor problems)
Rotten smells (possible pest issue)

These odors can indicate health hazards or mechanical issues that need immediate attention.

Bonus Tip: Trust Your Gut

If something just feels off about your system, you’re probably right. Even if it’s still cooling, strange behavior is often a warning of what’s to come. Calling in the pros early can prevent bigger problems later.