Is There a Problem? 10 Signs You Should Call for HVAC Repair

Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping your home comfortable year-round, but even the most durable systems encounter issues every so often. Detect these problems early to reduce the risk of expensive repairs or the need for a full replacement. Here are 10 signs that you should schedule HVAC repair without delay.

1: A Spike in Heating and Cooling Bills

A sudden jump in energy costs despite no similar change in usage is signaling that your HVAC system is not running efficiently. Common culprits include aging equipment, leaky air ducts or dirty coils, forcing your system to work longer and harder to reach your preferred temperature. Jumping energy bills are frequently one of the first signs your system needs repair, so it’s vital to pay attention to unexplained bill increases.

2: Unusual Noises

Your HVAC system should hum along fairly quietly, but once you begin to hear odd clanking sounds, it’s likely something’s wrong. Loud and annoying noises often signal rattling parts, worn-out belts or a defective motor. Disregarding these sounds may lead to worse damage, so try to contact a professional for furnace or AC repair once you detect them.

3: Foul Smells

When your HVAC system gives off unpleasant odors, it’s time to check it out. Musty smells suggest mold in your ductwork or HVAC system, while burning/waxy odors could mean electrical problems or overworked components. These odors prevent your home from smelling pleasant, and in severe cases could even impact your health. A certified HVAC technician can diagnose and repair the issue to restore no-smell operation.

4: Weak Airflow

If the airflow coming from your vents feels weaker or inconsistent, several possible issues may be to blame. The blower’s air filter may be clogged, part of the ductwork may be leaking or the blower motor may be malfunctioning. Not only can weak airflow make your home less comfortable, it also forces your system to run inefficiently, leading to higher energy bills and accelerated wear and tear.

5: Lukewarm Air

Perhaps the airflow is strong, but the temperature is unusually mild compared to your thermostat. When running your air conditioner, warmer “cooling” often points to a refrigerant leak or a failing compressor. And for the heating side, lukewarm air could come from a defective ignition system or a problem with the ignitor. Resolving the root problem is the only way to restore home comfort.

6: Swinging Temperatures

When one room feels like an oven while another room’s temperature is like a freezer, you can bet the HVAC system is unable to regulate the flow of air evenly. This issue could result from leaky air ducts, a faulty thermostat or even the system itself wearing out. Unpredictable temperatures will obviously reduce comfort and can also drive up energy costs and require repairs.

7: Excessive Starting and Stopping

Your HVAC system should have regular running cycles. If it frequently shuts back off shortly after just beginning a cycle, the system is not performing how it is supposed to. This common problem, known as short cycling, is often caused by thermostat malfunctions, an obstructed air filter or a poorly sized system. Correcting this problem as soon as you can stops wear and tear that could result in a premature HVAC replacement.

8: Humidity Problems

Your HVAC system plays an important role in managing indoor humidity levels. If you notice unusually elevated humidity or dryness, your system may not be working properly. Excessive humidity levels are unpleasant and can cause mold growth, while lower humidity leads to itchy skin and nasal irritation. Problems like a malfunctioning compressor or a blocked drain line may hinder your system from managing humidity correctly. Luckily, these problems are fixable.

9: Water Is Pooling Nearby

Water leaking or standing along your HVAC system is a common sign of an issue. This could be caused by a clogged condensate drain line, which keeps moisture from clearing properly, or ice forming on the refrigerant coils and slowly melting. No matter the cause, get in touch with a professional to fix leaks as soon as you notice them to stop property damage and growing issues.

10: A Faulty Thermostat

Is your HVAC system not functioning correctly to your thermostat inputs? For instance, the system may not start up when you adjust the temperature, or it may frequently misinterpret commands. Whether the issue stems from the thermostat itself or its relationship with the HVAC system, these issues cause suboptimal operation and comfort problems.

Request HVAC Repair

If your furnace or air conditioning is exhibiting any of these signs, contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our qualified technicians are ready to provide prompt, long-lasting solutions to all your home comfort needs. We stand behind our service with a 100% satisfaction guarantee since your comfort is and always will be our number one priority. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and protect your sense of comfort all year long.