Top 8 Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Servicing Before Summer

1. Weak or Uneven Cooling Throughout the Home

One of the clearest signs your air conditioner needs repair is when it struggles to cool your home evenly; instead of a comfortable, consistent temperature, one room feels icy while another barely cools.

This usually points to underlying issues such as:

• Dirty or clogged air filters restricting airflow.
• Refrigerant running low or leaking from the system.
• Blocked or leaking ductwork causing uneven distribution.

Regular AC maintenance before summer includes inspecting airflow pathways, checking refrigerant levels, and cleaning or replacing filters. Tackling these problems now ensures that once the heat arrives, every room in your home stays cool and comfortable.

2. Strange Noises Coming From the System

Air conditioners are designed to operate with a steady hum. If you suddenly hear banging, hissing, rattling, or grinding noises, it’s a clear red flag.



• A banging or clanking sound may signal a loose part within the compressor.
• Hissing often indicates a refrigerant leak.
• Rattling could mean debris has become trapped in the system.

Ignoring these sounds reduces efficiency and risks further damage to key components. Calling a technician promptly ensures the problem is identified before it escalates. Early intervention prevents small issues from developing into expensive repairs during the hottest weeks of summer.

3. Unpleasant Odours When the Unit Runs

When you turn on the air conditioning, the last thing you expect is an unpleasant smell filling the room. Musty, smoky, or burning odours are warning signs of something wrong.

Possible causes include:

• Mould or mildew growing in damp parts of the system.
• Dust and bacteria accumulating in filters and ducts.
• Electrical issues such as overheating wires or insulation damage.

Servicing removes dirt, sanitises the system, and ensures all electrical components operate safely. A clean system prevents odours and improves indoor air quality, making your home healthier and more comfortable throughout the summer.

4. Rising Energy Bills Without Increased Usage

If your energy bills are climbing but your usage hasn’t changed, your air conditioner may be the culprit. When a system is clogged with dirt, low on refrigerant, or simply neglected, it must work harder to cool the home, leading to higher electricity consumption.

Professional maintenance restores efficiency by:

• Cleaning coils and fans to allow heat exchange to occur properly.
• Testing refrigerant levels and ensuring no leaks are present.
• Calibrating thermostats for accurate temperature control.

By servicing your system before summer, you can avoid overpaying for electricity and keep your home cool without unnecessary costs.

5. Frequent Cycling On & Off

An air conditioner that switches on and off repeatedly without completing a proper cooling cycle is known as “short cycling.” This wastes energy, strains components, and often leaves your home feeling less comfortable.

Common causes of short cycling include:

• A clogged air filter restricting airflow.
• Refrigerant leaks causing the system to overheat.
• A malfunctioning thermostat giving incorrect signals.

Routine servicing quickly identifies these issues. Restoring normal operation ensures your system runs smoothly, keeping temperatures consistent and reducing unnecessary wear. Left unchecked, short cycling can shorten the lifespan of the entire unit.

6. Excess Moisture or Leaks Around the Unit

Air conditioners naturally produce condensation, but pooling water or noticeable leaks are signs of trouble.

Potential issues include:

• A blocked drain line preventing proper water removal.
• Frozen evaporator coils caused by restricted airflow.
• Refrigerant leaks, which are both inefficient and hazardous.

Moisture problems should never be ignored, as they can lead to water damage in the home and health issues if mould develops. Professional servicing ensures drains are clear, coils are functioning correctly, and refrigerant levels are safe.

7. Poor Airflow From Vents

If you notice weak airflow when the system is running, it may be due to:

• Dust-clogged filters or ducts.
• A failing blower fan that can’t push air effectively.
• Obstructions in the ductwork reducing flow.

Poor airflow reduces comfort and makes the system work harder, increasing energy consumption. Servicing involves cleaning and testing all airflow components, ensuring the system distributes cool air efficiently. By addressing airflow problems before summer, you’ll avoid discomfort and prevent your system from straining unnecessarily.

8. The Unit Hasn’t Been Serviced in Over a Year

Even if your air conditioner seems to be running fine, skipping regular servicing is risky. Most manufacturers recommend annual maintenance to keep warranties valid and avoid breakdowns.

Annual servicing typically includes:

• Cleaning filters, coils, and drain lines.
• Checking refrigerant levels and pressure.
• Inspecting all electrical connections and controls.
• Testing thermostat accuracy.

If it’s been over a year since your last service, scheduling one before summer is essential. Preventative care keeps your system efficient, reliable, and ready for the demanding months ahead.

Stay Summer-Ready With Expert Air Conditioning Near You

Staying ahead of air conditioner problems ensures your home remains comfortable when temperatures rise. From weak cooling and odd smells to leaks and rising energy bills, these signs highlight the importance of timely servicing. Waiting until the first heatwave to deal with issues often leads to breakdowns at the worst possible time.

At Marty Nelson Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, we provide comprehensive maintenance and repair services designed to keep your system running efficiently all summer long. Our team understands the unique demands of Central West NSW homes and can help you prepare your air conditioner for the season ahead.

Get in touch via our contact page or give us a call to book a service before the summer rush begins.