In this blog, we’ll break down 5 signs your air conditioning needs repair now, so you can take immediate action and keep your cool.
When the summer heat rolls into Fort Smith, Van Buren, Alma, or Greenwood, AR, the last thing you want is a faulty air conditioner. Yet, many homeowners ignore the warning signs until it’s too late. Recognizing the early red flags can save you from discomfort, high energy bills, or costly system replacements. At Riverside Comfort Care, we specialize in timely air conditioning repairs that restore comfort fast.
In this blog, we’ll break down 5 signs your air conditioning needs repair now, so you can take immediate action and keep your cool.
1. Warm Air Blowing from the Vents
If your AC is blowing warm or room-temperature air, that’s an immediate red flag. It might be as simple as a thermostat issue—or something more serious, like a failing compressor or low refrigerant levels.
🛠 Possible Causes:
Clogged air filter
Low refrigerant
Broken compressor
Thermostat malfunction
👉 Schedule a professional AC inspection to pinpoint the problem before it worsens.
📚 According to the U.S. Department of Energy, low refrigerant levels not only reduce cooling efficiency but can damage the compressor if left unresolved. (source)
2. Unusual Noises Coming from the AC Unit
While some noise is normal, rattling, grinding, or squealing indicates mechanical trouble. Ignoring these sounds can lead to part failure or system breakdown.
🔊 Common Culprits:
Loose belts or bearings
Motor or fan issues
Debris stuck in the outdoor unit
These noises don’t fix themselves—contact our expert AC technicians in Fort Smith and Van Buren to diagnose the issue early.
📘 The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) advises that mechanical noises are often signs of dangerous wear-and-tear. (source)
3. Weak or Inconsistent Airflow
Do some rooms feel cool while others stay warm? Weak airflow often points to ductwork blockages, a failing blower motor, or even a dirty air filter.
🌬️ What to Check:
Inspect and replace the air filter
Check vents for blockages
Schedule ductwork cleaning
📍Professional duct cleaning services can make a big difference in your system’s performance, especially in high-humidity areas like Alma and Greenwood.
📗 ENERGY STAR recommends checking your filters monthly and replacing them every 3 months to maintain strong airflow. (source)
4. High Humidity Indoors
Your AC should regulate indoor humidity levels. If your home feels muggy even with the AC running, the system may need calibration or repairs.
💧 What It Means:
Your AC isn’t dehumidifying properly
Your system may be short cycling
Your refrigerant charge may be off
🌡 HVAC tuning can restore your system’s ability to manage humidity efficiently and reduce wear.
📘 The CDC states that maintaining humidity between 30–60% helps prevent mold growth and improves air quality. (source)
5. AC Unit Frequently Turns On and Off (Short Cycling)
Short cycling wears out your unit faster and leads to skyrocketing energy costs. This is often caused by thermostat issues, dirty coils, or an improperly sized system.
🔁 Warning Signs:
System runs for less than 10 minutes
Frequent cycling throughout the day
Increased energy bills
🎯 Learn about short cycling and how to prevent it in our expert guide.
📙 According to ASHRAE, consistent short cycling reduces HVAC system lifespan and efficiency. (source)
Why Timely AC Repair Matters
Ignoring these signs doesn’t just impact comfort—it affects your wallet and health.
🔹 Save on Repairs
Addressing minor problems early can prevent expensive part replacements or full system failure.
🔹 Improve Energy Efficiency
A healthy system uses less power. Riverside Comfort Care helps reduce your utility bills with routine AC maintenance.
🔹 Protect Your Health
AC issues can compromise indoor air quality. Replacing your air filters ensures clean air and reduces allergens and respiratory irritants.
Upgrade Option: Friedrich Breeze Universal Heat Pump
If your current system is beyond repair, consider upgrading to the Friedrich Breeze Universal Heat Pump—a powerful, energy-efficient solution for Arkansas homes.
✔️ Features:
Inverter technology
Whisper-quiet operation
Dual heating and cooling
Smart home compatibility
This system is ideal for homeowners in Fort Smith, Van Buren, Alma, and Greenwood who want comfort year-round with minimal energy use.
Serving All of Western Arkansas
We proudly offer HVAC services in:
🔗 Check our BBB Accreditation and Van Buren Chamber listing for more about our trusted reputation.
Schedule AC Repair with Riverside Comfort Care Today
If you’ve noticed any of the 5 signs your air conditioning needs repair now, don’t wait. Let our skilled HVAC technicians diagnose and fix the issue before it becomes a major problem.
📞 Call us at (479) 353-5266 or contact us online to schedule service in Fort Smith, Van Buren, Alma, or Greenwood, AR.
