Is Something Wrong? 10 Signs You Should Call for HVAC Repair

Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping your home pleasant all year long, but even the most reliable systems encounter issues periodically. Detect these problems early to save you from expensive repairs or the need for a full replacement. Here are 10 signs that you should arrange HVAC repair without delay.

1: A Spike in Energy Bills

A sudden surge in energy costs without a corresponding change in usage suggests that your HVAC system is not running as it should. Common culprits include worn-out equipment, leaks in the ductwork or dirty coils, forcing the HVAC system to work much harder than normal to maintain your set temperature. Jumping energy bills are often an early sign your system needs repair, so it’s crucial to watch for unexplained bill increases.

2: Unusual Noises

Your HVAC system should hum along smoothly, but if you begin to hear strange rattling sounds, it’s likely something’s wrong. Loud and annoying noises often point to unsecured parts, worn-out belts or a malfunctioning motor. Disregarding these sounds could lead to more severe damage, so you should call a professional for furnace or AC repair once you detect them.

3: Foul Smells

When your HVAC system is giving off unpleasant odors, it’s time to investigate. Stale smells suggest mold in your ductwork or HVAC unit, while smoky odors indicate electrical problems or overheating components. These odors stop your home from smelling clean, and in severe cases could even impact your health. A local HVAC technician can assess and resolve the issue to restore no-smell operation.

4: Weak Airflow

If the air circulation coming from the ventilation feels worse or erratic, several potential issues may be to blame. The air filter may be blocked, part of the air ducts may be leaking or the circulation motor may be wearing out. Not only will weaker airflow make your home heating and cooling less efficient, it also forces your system to run inefficiently, leading to elevated energy bills and additional wear and tear.

5: Lukewarm Air

Perhaps the airflow is sufficient, but the temperature is unusually mild compared to your thermostat. When turning on your air conditioner, warmer “cooling” often points to low refrigerant or a failing compressor. Regarding the heating side, cool air could be caused by a malfunctioning ignition system or a problem with the ignition system. Addressing the fundamental problem is the only way to recover home comfort.

6: Inconsistent Temperatures

When one part of the house feels like you’re in the furnace while another feels like cold storage, it’s usually because the HVAC system is unable to distribute air evenly. This issue could be caused by a break in the ventilation system, a broken thermostat or even the system itself losing efficiency. Inconsistent temperatures will obviously lower comfort and can also increase energy costs and need repairs.

7: Excessive Heating or Cooling Cycles

Your HVAC system should have predictable on-and-off cycles. If it frequently shuts off shortly after just starting up, the system is not functioning how it needs to. This common problem, known as short cycling, is often caused by a faulty thermostat, an obstructed air filter or a poorly sized system. Addressing this problem earlier prevents wear and tear that could cause equally early HVAC replacement.

8: Humidity Problems

Your HVAC system plays a big role in controlling indoor humidity levels. If you detect unusually excessive humidity or dryness, something in the system may not be performing properly. Elevated humidity levels are often gross and can encourage mold growth, while reduced humidity leads to cracked skin and nasal irritation. Issues like a faulty compressor or a clogged up drain line may hinder your system from balancing humidity correctly. Thankfully, these issues are easily addressed.

9: Water Is Leaking Nearby

Water pooling near your HVAC system is a known sign of an issue. This could be caused by a blocked condensate drain line, which prevents moisture from draining properly, or ice forming on the refrigerant coils and slowly breaking down. Whatever the cause, reach out to a professional to resolve leaks as soon as you find them to avoid property damage and more severe issues.

10: A Broken Thermostat

Is your HVAC system not reacting correctly to your thermostat inputs? For instance, the system may not turn on when you change the temperature, or it may frequently misinterpret commands. Whether the issue stems from the thermostat itself or its link to the HVAC system, these malfunctions cause lack of efficiency and temperature control problems.

Trust Your Local HVAC Repair

If your furnace or air conditioning is displaying any of these signs, reach out to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our trained technicians are ready to provide quick, lasting solutions to all your home comfort needs. We back our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee since your comfort is and always will be our number one priority. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and protect your sense of comfort all year-round.