What Went Wrong? 10 Signs You Need HVAC Repair

Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping your home pleasant throughout the year, but even the most durable systems encounter issues from time to time. Catch 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 Energy Bills

An abrupt spike in energy costs even though there’s not a corresponding shift in usage suggests that your HVAC system is not running properly. Common culprits include worn-out equipment, leaking air ducts or dirty coils, forcing your system to work longer and harder to maintain your desired temperature. Steeper energy bills are often a primary sign your system needs repair, so it’s important to monitor for any unexplained utility increases.

2: Unusual Noises

Your HVAC system should operate in the background, but once you begin to hear strange banging sounds, it may be because something’s wrong. These noises often indicate unsecured parts, worn-out belts or a malfunctioning motor. Disregarding these sounds can lead to additional damage, so try to call a professional for furnace or AC repair as soon as you become aware of them.

3: Unpleasant Smells

When your HVAC system gives off strange odors, it’s time to check it out. Stale smells indicate mold in your ductwork or HVAC unit, while burning/waxy odors indicate electrical damage or overheated components. These odors stop your home from smelling fresh, and in severe cases can even mess with your health. A certified HVAC technician can pinpoint and resolve the issue to restore normal operation.

4: Weak Airflow

If the airflow coming from the air ducts feels like it’s gotten worse or erratic, a few potential issues could be to blame. The system’s air filter may be obstructed by debris, part of the ventilation may be disconnected or the blower motor may be wearing out. Not only can weak airflow make your home heating and cooling less efficient, it also forces your system to run inefficiently, leading to increased energy bills and extra wear and tear.

5: Lukewarm Air

Perhaps the airflow is strong, but the temperature is way off compared to your thermostat. When running your air conditioner, room-temperature “cooling” often points to low refrigerant or a failing compressor. On the heating side, a lack of hot air could be caused by a broken ignition system or when something goes wrong with the ignition system. Finding the fundamental problem is the only way to recover home comfort.

6: Swinging Temperatures

When one room in your home feels like a sauna while another room’s temperature is like your refrigerator, it’s likely your HVAC system is unable to circulate air evenly. This issue could originate from issues with your ductwork, a defective thermostat or even the system itself becoming less efficient. Inconsistent temperatures will obviously negatively impact comfort and can also increase energy costs and force you to schedule repairs.

7: Excessive Starting and Stopping

Your HVAC system should have consistent operating cycles. If it constantly shuts off shortly after just turning on, the system is not operating how it needs to. This specific malfunction, known as short cycling, is usually caused by a faulty thermostat, a blocked air filter or a poorly sized system. Addressing 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 an important role in managing indoor humidity levels. If you feel unusually increased humidity or dryness, something in the system may not be performing properly. High humidity levels are often gross and can lead to mold growth, while low humidity leads to cracked skin and nasal irritation. Issues like a faulty compressor or a clogged drain line may hinder your system from managing humidity properly. Fortunately, these problems are quickly resolved.

9: Water Is Leaking Nearby

Water gathering along your HVAC system is a clear sign of trouble. This could be caused by a clogged condensate drain line, which keeps moisture from flowing properly, or ice forming on the condenser coils and slowly breaking down. Whatever the cause, contact a professional to address leaks as soon as you see them to stop property damage and growing issues.

10: An Issue with Your Thermostat

Is your HVAC system not functioning 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 poor performance and comfort problems.

Arrange for HVAC Repair

If your heater or air conditioning is exhibiting any of these signs, reach out to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our certified technicians are ready to provide prompt, reliable solutions for all your home comfort needs. We back our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee because your comfort is and always will be our top priority. Contact us today to arrange an inspection and protect your sense of comfort all year long.