When should an A/C professional be called?

An A/C professional should be called when there is a significant drop in efficiency or performance. This indicates that the system may have underlying issues that could affect not only its operation but also the comfort of the living space and energy costs. A decline in performance could be caused by various factors such as refrigerant leaks, dirty coils, or issues with the electrical components of the system. Addressing these problems early on can prevent more serious damage, prolong the lifespan of the unit, and maintain energy efficiency.

Calling a professional solely for strange noises may overlook other performance issues that could be causing inefficiencies. Waiting until the end of the cooling season doesn't ensure that any existing issues are resolved in a timely manner, potentially leading to larger problems. Additionally, routine filter changes are important for maintenance, but they do not encompass the broad range of issues that can arise with an A/C unit, which is why a professional should be consulted when there are noticeable drops in function.