Is Something Wrong? 10 Signs You Should Call for HVAC Repair
Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping your home cozy throughout the year, but even the most durable systems encounter issues from time to time. Identify these problems early to save you from expensive repairs or the need for a full replacement. Here are 10 signs that you should book HVAC repair without delay.
1: Rising Energy Bills
An unexplained surge in energy costs despite no similar increase in usage is a sign that your HVAC system is not running optimally. Common causes include outdated equipment, leaking ductwork or dirty coils, forcing the HVAC system to work harder to sustain your set temperature. Jumping energy bills are frequently one of the first signs your system needs repair, so it’s crucial to monitor for any unexplained utility increases.
2: Loud or Annoying Noises
Your HVAC system should hum along smoothly, but when you begin to hear strange banging sounds, it’s likely something’s wrong. Loud and annoying noises often point to unsecured parts, deteriorated belts or a defective motor. Overlooking these sounds may lead to greater damage, so try to contact a professional for furnace or AC repair once you detect them.
3: Strange Smells
When your HVAC system gives off foul odors, it’s time to look into it. Damp smells suggest mold in your ductwork or HVAC unit, while smoky odors indicate electrical problems or overheated components. These odors keep your home from smelling inviting, and in severe cases may even impact your health. A local HVAC technician can identify and correct the issue to restore no-smell operation.
4: Weak Airflow
If the air coming from the air ducts feels like it’s gotten worse or uneven, a few common issues could be to blame. The system’s air filter may be blocked, part of the air ducts may be loose or the blower motor may be breaking down. Not only does weaker airflow make your home more uncomfortable, it also forces your system to exert more effort, leading to increased energy bills and extra wear and tear.
5: Lukewarm Air
Perhaps the airflow is normal, but the temperature is way off compared to your thermostat. When turning on your air conditioner, warmer “cooling” often points to low refrigerant or a malfunctioning compressor. And for the heating side, a lack of hot air may be caused by a broken ignition system or a problem with the ignitor. Addressing the fundamental problem is the only way to reestablish home comfort.
6: Inconsistent Temperatures
When one part of the house feels like an oven while another is more like the icebox, it’s likely your HVAC system is unable to regulate the flow of air evenly. This issue could result from issues with your ductwork, a malfunctioning thermostat or even the system itself losing efficiency. Unpredictable temperatures will obviously reduce comfort and can also raise energy costs and force you to schedule repairs.
7: Excessive Short Cycling
Your HVAC system should have regular running cycles. If it often shuts back off shortly after just beginning a cycle, the system is not performing how it needs to. This specific malfunction, known as short cycling, can be caused by thermostat problems, a dirty air filter or an improperly sized system. Correcting this problem as soon as you can mitigates wear and tear that could cause equally early HVAC replacement.
8: Humidity Problems
Your HVAC system plays a major role in regulating indoor humidity levels. If you feel unusually increased humidity or dryness, something in the system may not be performing properly. Increased humidity levels are uncomfortable and can encourage mold growth, while low humidity leads to itchy skin and nasal irritation. Root causes like a defective compressor or a clogged drain line may prevent your system from controlling humidity properly. Fortunately, these concerns are highly repairable.
9: Water Is Pooling Close By
Water gathering around your HVAC system is a known sign of a problem. This may have started with a clogged condensate drain line, which prevents moisture from clearing properly, or ice forming on the evaporator coils and slowly thawing. No matter the cause, reach out to a professional to repair leaks as soon as you see them to reduce property damage and more severe issues.
10: A Malfunctioning Thermostat
Is your HVAC system not reacting correctly to your thermostat inputs? For instance, the system may not activate when you modify the temperature, or it may frequently misinterpret commands. Whether the issue stems from the thermostat itself or its relationship with the HVAC system, these concerns cause poor performance and temperature control problems.
Trust Your Local HVAC Repair
If your heating system or air conditioning is showing any of these signs, call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our certified technicians are ready to provide quick, long-lasting solutions to all your home comfort concerns. We stand behind our service with a 100% satisfaction guarantee because your comfort is and always will be our main priority. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and keep your home comfortable all year-round.