Is Something Wrong? 10 Signs It’s Time for HVAC Repair

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

1: Rising Energy Bills

An abrupt surge in energy costs without a corresponding increase in usage strongly indicates that your HVAC system is not running optimally. Common causes include worn-out equipment, leaks in the ductwork or dirty coils, forcing the HVAC system to work longer and harder to maintain your set temperature. Higher energy bills are often a primary sign your system needs repair, so it’s important to watch for unexplained bill increases.

2: Unusual Noises

Your HVAC system should run fairly quietly, but once you begin to hear odd clanking sounds, it may be because something’s wrong. Such sounds often point to unsecured parts, fraying belts or a failing motor. Overlooking these sounds may lead to greater damage, so you should call a professional for furnace or AC repair once you notice them.

3: Weird Smells

When your HVAC system gives off odd odors, it’s time to look into it. Damp smells suggest mold in your ductwork or HVAC system, while burnt odors indicate electrical problems or overheated components. These odors stop your home from smelling inviting, and in severe cases can even harm your health. A local HVAC technician can assess and resolve the issue to restore no-smell operation.

4: Poor Airflow

If the airflow coming from the ventilation feels weaker or inconsistent, several possible issues could be to blame. The filter may be obstructed by debris, part of the air ducts may be damaged or the fan motor may be wearing out. Not only will 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

Sometimes the airflow is consistent, but the temperature is unusually mild compared to your thermostat. When using your air conditioner, room-temperature “cooling” often points to insufficient coolant or a failing compressor. And for the heating side, cooler air could be caused by a malfunctioning ignition system or issues with the ignition system. Finding the underlying problem is the only way to bring back home comfort.

6: Inconsistent Temperatures

When one part of the house feels like an oven while another feels like the icebox, it’s usually because the HVAC system is failing to distribute air evenly. This issue could be caused by ductwork leaks, a faulty thermostat or even the system itself becoming less efficient. Inconsistent temperatures will obviously negatively impact comfort and can also elevate energy costs and force you to schedule repairs.

7: Excessive Heating or Cooling Cycles

Your HVAC system should have predictable operating cycles. If it repeatedly stops running shortly after just beginning a cycle, the system is not running how it needs to. This common problem, known as short cycling, can be caused by issues with the thermostat, an obstructed air filter or an improperly sized system. Fixing this problem as soon as you can prevents wear and tear that could lead to a premature HVAC replacement.

8: Humidity Is Too High or Low

Your HVAC system plays a significant role in regulating indoor humidity levels. If you detect unusually elevated humidity or dryness, your system may not be functioning properly. High humidity levels are unpleasant and can lead to mold growth, while low humidity leads to cracked skin and nasal irritation. Concerns like a faulty compressor or a moldy drain line may prevent your system from controlling humidity correctly. Fortunately, these concerns are fixable.

9: Water Leaks Nearby

Water collecting around your HVAC system is a clear sign of an issue. This may have started with a blocked condensate drain line, which keeps moisture from draining properly, or ice forming on the refrigerant coils and slowly breaking down. Regardless of the cause, get in touch with a professional to address leaks as soon as you find them to stop property damage and escalating issues.

10: A Broken Thermostat

Is your HVAC system not responding correctly to your thermostat inputs? For instance, the system may not kick on when you modify the temperature, or it may frequently misunderstand commands. Whether the issue stems from the thermostat itself or its relationship with the HVAC system, these problems cause lack of efficiency and comfort problems.

Schedule HVAC Repair

If your heating system or air conditioning is exhibiting any of these signs, get in touch with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our trained technicians are ready to provide fast, long-lasting solutions to all your home comfort concerns. We stand behind our service with a 100% satisfaction guarantee since your comfort is and always will be our top priority. Contact us today to book an inspection and keep your home comfortable all year long.