Is Your AC Telling You It’s About to Break? 7 Warning Signs Most People Miss
Here’s something I’ve learned after decades in HVAC: your air conditioner almost never quits without warning.
It tries to tell you something’s wrong—through small signs and subtle changes. But if you don’t know what to look for, those warning signals get ignored… until the system gives out on the hottest day of the year.
And by then? It’s a mad scramble for emergency service, big repair bills, and sweating it out while waiting for parts.
Let’s stop that story before it starts.
Here are 7 early warning signs your AC is trying to tell you it needs help—and what they could mean:
1. Weaker Airflow
Do your vents feel weaker than usual? Is the cool air not blasting like it used to? Weak airflow is often a sign of a clogged filter, dirty blower components, or restricted ductwork.
Good news: At Bob Boldt HVAC, our 15-point clean and check includes inspecting and adjusting your blower (point #3), changing your air filter (point #7), and measuring airflow and static pressure (point #13)—so we can catch airflow issues early and keep your system running strong.
2. Strange Noises
- Grinding? Could be a worn motor bearing.
- Banging? Maybe a loose fan blade.
- Hissing? Possibly a refrigerant leak.
Unusual sounds are your AC’s way of waving a red flag. Left unchecked, those small noises turn into big repair bills.
With Bob Boldt’s clean and check, we inspect all electrical connections (point #12), check motors (point #2), and lubricate moving parts (point #11) to prevent small issues from turning into system failure.
3. Unexplained Higher Energy Bills
A jump in your energy bill often signals your system is working harder than it should. Dirty coils, poor refrigerant levels, or weak components are usually to blame.
Our 15-point tune-up checks refrigerant pressure (point #5), cleans condenser coils (point #1), and verifies your system is running at peak efficiency—saving you money all season long.
4. Short Cycling
Does your AC turn on, run for a few minutes, shut off—and then repeat? That’s “short cycling,” and it can overheat components and wear down your compressor.
This could be caused by poor thermostat calibration, electrical issues, or refrigerant problems.
We calibrate your thermostat (point #8), check starting capabilities (point #10), and test all safety controls (point #6) to ensure your system is communicating and running properly.
5. Humidity Problems Indoors
A working AC doesn’t just cool your home—it controls humidity too. Sticky, muggy air inside can mean your system isn’t cooling properly or the drain line is clogged.
Bob Boldt’s clean and check includes inspecting and cleaning the condensate drain (point #4) so you don’t end up with excess moisture or water damage.
6. Warm Spots in Certain Rooms
Uneven cooling can point to airflow problems, duct leaks, or an underperforming blower.
Our inspection covers everything from blower adjustment (point #3) to airflow testing (point #13) to ensure every room feels just right.
7. Constant Thermostat Adjustments
Do you keep tweaking the thermostat but can’t get comfortable? That could mean calibration issues, sensor errors, or an AC that’s struggling to keep up.
We recalibrate your thermostat (point #8) as part of every tune-up, so you can “set it and forget it”—no more frustration or second-guessing.
Don’t Ignore the Signs—We’ll Catch Them Before They Become Big Problems
The biggest takeaway? Every one of these signs is easier (and cheaper) to fix early.
At Bob Boldt HVAC, we’ve designed our 15-point Central Air Clean and Check to cover everything your system needs to stay healthy—from cleaning coils to checking motors to fine-tuning your thermostat.
It’s thorough. It’s proven. And it’s only $89.
Call (651) 273-2414 or visit www.bobboldthvac.com to schedule your clean and check appointment today.
Let’s make sure your AC is running strong, quiet, and efficient—so you can enjoy every cool breeze without worry.
Thanks for trusting us,
Bob Boldt
Owner, Bob Boldt HVAC
