It’s the middle of summer in Florida, and if your AC isn’t keeping up, you’re not alone. We receive a high volume of calls this time of year from homeowners dealing with systems that simply aren’t performing as expected. If you’re sweating it out and wondering what’s wrong, it might be time to call an AC contractor in St. Petersburg to take a look.
When your air conditioner isn’t cooling like it should, it’s usually trying to tell you something. These systems work hard around the clock during the summer months, and they’ll let you know when something’s off—if you know what to watch for.
1. Weak Airflow From Vents
Put your hand near a vent. If the air blowing out feels weak or barely there, that’s a problem. This could be anything from a clogged air filter to a failing blower motor. Weak airflow means your home won’t cool properly, and your system is working overtime, which could lead to even more damage. A quick inspection and filter replacement can sometimes solve this without a full service call.
2. Warm Air Instead of Cold
If your system is blowing warm air, check your thermostat first—it might be set incorrectly. If it’s not the thermostat, the issue might be low refrigerant or a problem with the compressor. Either way, you’re going to want a professional to check it out before it gets worse.
3. Strange Noises or Smells
Your AC should run quietly. If you start hearing grinding, banging, or squealing, turn it off and call in a pro. Same goes for odd smells. A musty odor might mean mold in the ductwork, while a burning smell could indicate an electrical problem. Both are serious and need quick attention. Ignoring warm air could lead to a complete system failure right when you need it most. Unusual smells and sounds are often early warning signs—don’t ignore them.
4. Humidity Levels Feel Off
Your AC should help keep your home comfortable and dry. If things are starting to feel muggy indoors, your system might be struggling. This could be due to a malfunctioning evaporator coil or another internal issue. If you’re starting to feel like you’re living in a sauna, that’s your cue to get the system checked out. High indoor humidity can also lead to mold growth and poor air quality for your family.
5. Your Energy Bill Has Spiked
Nobody likes getting a high electric bill—especially when nothing in your home has changed. If your cooling costs suddenly skyrocket, your AC system could be working less efficiently due to a hidden issue. A jump in your bill is more than annoying—it’s a red flag that something’s wrong.
The Florida summer isn’t a time to gamble on a faulty air conditioner. When your AC starts to act up, catching the problem early can save you money, time, and a lot of sweat.
Don’t wait until your system completely quits—mid-summer breakdowns are brutal. Let’s get ahead of it.
Contact The A/C Guy of Tampa Bay Inc. today! I’m your guy!