Aging A/C Unit? 3 Signs It’s Time to Clean It

Is your A/C system getting old? Typically, well-made A/C systems last for around 15 years, but only when they’re properly maintained. So, if you’ve had your unit for years, it’s likely in need of a thorough cleaning. At Dust Doctors, we stress routine A/C cleaning because we know that a well-maintained A/C unit functions far more efficiently and produces higher quality air than a dirty system. How can you determine when your system requires professional cleaning? If you’ve witnessed any of the following three telltale signs, it’s time to give our team a call. 

Your A/C Produces a Weird Smell

When your A/C kicks on, does it make your indoor air smell odd? A properly functioning A/C system should never produce odors, so if your unit has gradually begun generating an unpleasant scent, it’s not performing as it should.

You may even be dealing with what many HVAC experts refer to as “Dirty Sock Syndrome,” which basically means your A/C system smells an awful lot like your son’s dirty gym clothes. Yes, it’s a real thing, and yes, that moniker is the widely accepted, professional term for the condition. When your A/C stinks, here’s what’s you can do:

●        Contact an A/C cleaning company to remove mold and mildew buildup from the evaporator coil. Dirty Sock Syndrome occurs when microorganism buildup on the coil grows out of control, and the only way to get rid of it is with a thorough cleaning.

●        Empty your unit’s drain pans, examine the unit for blockages, and remove debris, if necessary.

●        If your HVAC filter is damp, replace it immediately.

●        Inspect the drainage lines for excess moisture and clear it, if necessary.

If you’re still experiencing a musty, moldy, foul odor after you’ve performed the above steps, it’s time to contact your local HVAC professional to repair the unit or install a replacement.

Your Home Is Experiencing Diminishing Air Flow

Decreased airflow and increased air temperature are two of the most common signs that your A/C unit requires replacement. Occasionally, though, these issues can also stem from debris buildup within the air conditioning system.

If you activate your system, and it does not produce cool air within a few minutes, you should have your ductwork inspected for debris or clogs that may be preventing cool air from flowing freely through the system. Ideally, you should also contact an A/C cleaning service to inspect your unit, blow out any debris, and clean the evaporator coil. A clean A/C system operates far more efficiently than a dirty one, so you’ll enjoy cooler, more well-distributed air while saving a chunk of change on your monthly energy bills.  

Your System Runs Constantly

If you have the correct size A/C unit to cool your home, it shouldn’t need to run continuously to perform its job effectively. If your A/C seems to be operating around the clock, that’s typically an indication that the unit is either wearing out or requires a thorough cleaning.

A high-quality central A/C system typically has a lifespan of between 12-15 years, so if your system is approaching the end of its projected life, it’s a good idea to go ahead and replace it. If, however, your system is well below its estimated lifespan, its coil may need cleaning to restore normal operation. You can determine whether a dirty evaporator coil is the culprit by checking the system’s pressure. If the pressure is lower than usual, you should contact an A/C cleaning technician to service your system.

At Dust Doctors, we provide comprehensive A/C cleaning and condenser coil cleaning for homeowners throughout the Twin Cities metro. Whether your system appears to be functioning less efficiently, or it’s been ages since your last cleaning, we’ll thoroughly clean your system, so you can once again enjoy a cool, comfortable home and improved indoor air quality. To learn more about our A/C cleaning or duct cleaning services, or to schedule your service appointment, give our team a call at 651-319-9777. You can also reach out to us on our contact page with any questions you may have.