Greetings from your friends at ROX Heating & Air! If you’re living in an area that’s no stranger to hailstorms, you’re well aware of the damage these icy intruders can wreak on property. Often, our outdoor air conditioning units become unintentional victims of these relentless hail showers, potentially compromising their performance and longevity.
How can you know if your AC unit has suffered hail damage? Below, we’ve compiled a list of the most evident signs to watch out for. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to give the professionals a call.
1. Visible Dents or Damage to the Exterior
One of the most obvious signs of hail damage is visible dents or damage on the exterior of your AC unit. These could appear on the metal casing or on the condenser coil fins. While some minor dents may not significantly impact your unit’s function, severe or widespread damage can cause performance issues, making the system work harder to keep your home cool.
2. Unusual Sounds
If your AC unit is making strange noises after a hailstorm, there’s a good chance it’s sustained damage. Hail can deform the fan blades, leading to them striking other components, or can cause other internal damage that results in unusual sounds. Listen for clanking, grinding, or whirring noises – these are sure signs that all’s not well.
3. Reduced Cooling Performance
Another telling sign of hail damage is when your AC doesn’t cool your home as effectively as before. If you notice your system running continuously, struggling to reach your set temperature, or if your home feels warmer than usual, the unit may have sustained damage that is affecting its cooling capacity.
4. Increased Energy Bills
If your AC unit has suffered hail damage, it may start operating inefficiently. As a result, you may notice a significant increase in your energy bills. If your electricity costs are soaring without any other explanation, it’s worth having a professional inspect your unit for potential damage.
5. Freon Leaks
Hail can damage the condenser coils, causing Freon leaks. Freon is the refrigerant that cools the air within your AC system. If you notice a puddle of liquid around your unit, or if your AC is blowing warm air, there might be a refrigerant leak due to hail damage.
6. Faulty Compressor
The compressor is the heart of your AC system, and any damage to it can cause your unit to malfunction or even fail completely. If the compressor has been damaged by hail, you might notice a failure to start, sporadic operation, or complete system shutdown.
In the wake of a hailstorm, if you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s essential to call on professional help. At ROX Heating & Air, our trained professionals can assess the extent of the damage, provide you with repair options, or advise on replacement if necessary. We understand the urgency of such situations and commit to timely and efficient service to help you restore comfort in your home.
Remember, it’s not just about the discomfort of a warmer home; running a damaged AC unit can lead to larger, more expensive problems down the road. Don’t wait until your AC gives up completely. Stay vigilant, and keep us on speed dial.
Stay cool and safe, and until next time, your team at ROX Heating & Air is here to ensure your comfort at all times.
