Is There a Problem? 10 Signs You Need HVAC Repair

Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping your home comfortable in every season, but even the most trustworthy systems encounter issues periodically. Identify these problems early to prevent expensive repairs or the need for a full replacement. Here are 10 signs that you should book HVAC repair without delay.

1: A Spike in Energy Bills

An abrupt jump in energy costs despite no similar increase in usage is a sign that your HVAC system is not running properly. Common causes include old equipment, leaking ductwork or dirty coils, forcing the HVAC system to work that much harder to reach your preferred temperature. Steeper energy bills are often an early sign your system needs repair, so it’s crucial to pay attention to unexplained bill increases.

2: Unusual Noises

Your HVAC system should operate fairly quietly, but once you are noticing odd clanking sounds, it may be because something’s wrong. Such sounds often suggest unsecured parts, worn-out belts or a malfunctioning motor. Neglecting these sounds can lead to additional damage, so try to call a professional for furnace or AC repair as soon as you notice them.

3: Foul Odors

When your HVAC system begins producing foul odors, it’s time to look into it. Musty smells point to mold in your ductwork or HVAC system, while smoky odors indicate electrical problems or overheating components. These odors stop your home from smelling fresh, and in severe cases may even harm your health. A local HVAC technician can identify and resolve the issue to restore clean-smelling operation.

4: Weaker Airflow

If the airflow coming from the ventilation feels weak or uneven, a few potential issues could be to blame. The filter may be dirty, part of the ventilation may be leaking or the air blower may be malfunctioning. Not only will weak airflow make your home less comfortable, it also forces your system to exert more effort, leading to increased energy bills and extra wear and tear.

5: Lukewarm Air

Sometimes the airflow is strong, but the temperature is unusually mild compared to the settings. When using your air conditioner, lukewarm “cooling” often points to insufficient coolant or a faulty compressor. And for the heating side, cooler air could come from a defective ignition system or when something goes wrong with the ignition system. Finding the root problem is the only way to recover home comfort.

6: Erratic Temperatures

When one part of the house feels like one big heater while another room’s temperature is like your refrigerator, it’s usually because the HVAC system is struggling to circulate air evenly. This issue could stem from a break in the ventilation system, a broken thermostat or even the system itself performing worse and worse. Unpredictable temperatures will obviously negatively impact comfort and can also elevate energy costs and demand repairs.

7: Excessive Short Cycling

Your HVAC system should have regular heating or cooling cycles. If it repeatedly turns off shortly after just starting up, the system is not performing how it needs to. This specific malfunction, known as short cycling, is usually caused by issues with the thermostat, a blocked air filter or an improperly sized system. Resolving this problem early avoids wear and tear that could lead to equally early HVAC replacement.

8: Humidity Problems

Your HVAC system plays a significant role in regulating indoor humidity levels. If you notice unusually elevated humidity or dryness, something in the system may not be operating properly. Elevated humidity levels are unpleasant and can encourage mold growth, while low humidity leads to cracked skin and nasal irritation. Concerns like a malfunctioning compressor or a clogged up drain line may prevent your system from controlling humidity effectively. Fortunately, these issues are fixable.

9: Water Leaks Close By

Water leaking or standing around your HVAC system is a known sign of a problem. This could be caused by a blocked condensate drain line, which stops moisture from draining properly, or ice forming on the condenser coils and slowly breaking down. No matter the cause, contact a professional to address leaks as soon as you notice them to reduce property damage and more severe issues.

10: A Broken Thermostat

Is your HVAC system not functioning correctly to your thermostat inputs? For instance, the system may not activate when you change the temperature, or it may frequently ignore commands. Whether the issue stems from the thermostat itself or its link to the HVAC system, these malfunctions cause suboptimal operation and comfort issues.

Arrange for HVAC Repair

If your heating or air conditioning is exhibiting any of these signs, call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our certified technicians are ready to provide speedy, lasting solutions for all your home comfort needs. We ensure a job well done with a 100% satisfaction guarantee as your comfort is and always will be our main priority. Contact us today to arrange an inspection and maintain total home comfort all year long.