Is There a Problem? 10 Signs You Need HVAC Repair

Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping your home cozy throughout the year, but even the most dependable systems encounter issues periodically. 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 set up HVAC repair without delay.

1: Rising Monthly Bills

A sudden increase in energy costs despite no similar shift in usage is a sign that your HVAC system is not running properly. Common causes include worn-out equipment, leaky air ducts or dirty coils, forcing the HVAC system to work longer and harder to sustain your preferred temperature. Jumping energy bills are often among the first signs your system needs repair, so it’s crucial to monitor for any unexplained bill increases.

2: Louder Noises

Your HVAC system should run in the background, but if you start hearing unfamiliar clanking sounds, it may be because something’s wrong. Such sounds often signal unsecured parts, damage to the belts or a broken motor. Overlooking these sounds can lead to greater damage, so you should reach out to a professional for furnace or AC repair as soon as you notice them.

3: Unpleasant Smells

When your HVAC system is giving off odd odors, it’s time to find out why. Musty smells suggest mold in your ductwork or HVAC unit, while burning odors suggest electrical damage or overheating components. These odors keep your home from smelling pleasant, and in severe cases can even harm your health. A certified HVAC technician can identify and resolve the issue to restore no-smell operation.

4: Weaker Airflow

If the airflow coming from your vents feels like it’s gotten worse or uneven, a few common issues may be to blame. The system’s air filter may be obstructed by debris, part of the ductwork may be disconnected or the air blower may be wearing out. Not only can weaker airflow make your home less comfortable, it also forces your system to exert more effort, leading to higher 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 running your air conditioner, milder “cooling” often points to low refrigerant or a defective compressor. Regarding the heating side, cool air could come from a defective ignition system or when something goes wrong with the flame sensor. Identifying the underlying problem is the only way to restore home comfort.

6: Swinging Temperatures

When one room in your home feels like one big heater while another feels like your refrigerator, it’s usually because the HVAC system is unable to regulate the flow of air evenly. This issue could stem from a break in the ventilation system, a malfunctioning thermostat or even the system itself losing efficiency. Unpredictable temperatures will obviously lower comfort and can also elevate energy costs and force you to schedule repairs.

7: Excessive Short Cycling

Your HVAC system should have normal running cycles. If it constantly shuts back off shortly after just beginning a cycle, the system is not performing how it is supposed to. This specific malfunction, known as short cycling, is often caused by thermostat problems, an obstructed air filter or an improperly sized system. Fixing this problem as soon as you can mitigates wear and tear that could cause equally early HVAC replacement.

8: Humidity Imbalance

Your HVAC system plays an important role in managing indoor humidity levels. If you experience unusually increased humidity or dryness, your system may not be operating properly. High humidity levels are often gross and can cause mold growth, while lower humidity leads to itchy skin and nasal irritation. Concerns like a malfunctioning compressor or a moldy drain line may hinder your system from controlling humidity correctly. Luckily, these situations are fixable.

9: Water Leaks Close By

Water pooling around your HVAC system is a clear sign of problems. This could be caused by a clogged condensate drain line, which keeps moisture from flowing properly, or ice forming on the evaporator coils and slowly thawing. Regardless of the cause, contact a professional to address leaks as soon as you notice them to reduce property damage and more severe issues.

10: A Malfunctioning Thermostat

Is your HVAC system not functioning correctly to your thermostat inputs? For instance, the system may not activate when you change the temperature, or it may frequently misinterpret commands. Whether the issue stems from the thermostat itself or its connection to the HVAC system, these malfunctions cause suboptimal operation and comfort issues.

Request HVAC Repair

If your heater or air conditioning is exhibiting any of these signs, contact 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 arrange an inspection and maintain total home comfort all year-round.