Is There a Problem? 10 Signs You Need HVAC Repair

Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping your home livable throughout the year, but even the most dependable systems encounter issues every so often. Catch 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 jump in energy costs despite no similar shift in usage suggests that your HVAC system is not running optimally. Common causes include worn-out equipment, leaks in the air ducts or dirty coils, forcing the HVAC system to work harder to reach your preferred temperature. Steeper energy bills are frequently among the first signs your system needs repair, so it’s crucial to monitor for any unexplained bill increases.

2: Unusual Noises

Your HVAC system should operate in the background, but when you begin to hear unfamiliar squealing sounds, you know something’s wrong. Loud and annoying noises often suggest rattling parts, damage to the belts or a malfunctioning motor. Ignoring these sounds can lead to additional damage, so you should get in touch with a professional for furnace or AC repair as soon as you notice them.

3: Strange Smells

When your HVAC system gives off strange odors, it’s time to find out why. Damp smells point to mold in your ductwork or HVAC system, while burning odors indicate electrical damage or overheated components. These odors keep your home from smelling inviting, and in severe cases could even mess with your health. A certified HVAC technician can pinpoint and correct the issue to restore clean-smelling operation.

4: Poor Airflow

If the airflow coming from your vents feels worse or inconsistent, several common issues might be to blame. The filter may be dirty, part of the ventilation may be disconnected or the blower motor may be breaking down. Not only does weaker airflow make your home less comfortable, it also forces your system to operate less effectively, leading to elevated energy bills and extra wear and tear.

5: Lukewarm Air

Sometimes the airflow is normal, but the temperature is way off compared to your thermostat. When using your air conditioner, lukewarm “cooling” often points to insufficient coolant or a malfunctioning compressor. Regarding the heating side, a lack of hot air can come from a broken ignition system or when something goes wrong with the ignitor. Identifying the underlying problem is the only way to recover home comfort.

6: Inconsistent Temperatures

When one room feels like one big heater while another room’s temperature is like cold storage, it’s usually because the HVAC system is failing to circulate air evenly. This issue could stem from a break in the ventilation system, a faulty thermostat or even the system itself becoming less efficient. Uneven temperatures will obviously negatively impact comfort and can also raise energy costs and force you to schedule repairs.

7: Excessive Heating or Cooling Cycles

Your HVAC system should have normal running cycles. If it repeatedly shuts off shortly after just starting up, the system is not operating how it should. This issue, known as short cycling, is usually caused by issues with the thermostat, an obstructed air filter or an over- or undersized system. Addressing this problem early stops wear and tear that could cause a premature HVAC replacement.

8: Humidity Imbalance

Your HVAC system plays a major role in maintaining indoor humidity levels. If you notice unusually excessive humidity or dryness, the HVAC system may not be performing properly. Elevated humidity levels are often gross and can lead to mold growth, while too little humidity leads to dry skin and nasal irritation. Problems like a malfunctioning compressor or a clogged drain line may hinder your system from regulating humidity correctly. Fortunately, these situations are fixable.

9: Water Leaks Nearby

Water pooling near your HVAC system is a clear sign of a problem. This may have started with a clogged condensate drain line, which stops moisture from clearing properly, or ice forming on the evaporator coils and slowly breaking down. Whatever the cause, call a professional to address leaks as soon as you see them to stop property damage and worsening issues.

10: An Issue with Your Thermostat

Is your HVAC system not responding correctly to your thermostat inputs? For instance, the system may not activate when you set the temperature, or it may frequently misunderstand commands. Whether the issue stems from the thermostat itself or its link to the HVAC system, these concerns cause suboptimal operation and comfort problems.

Request HVAC Repair

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