What Went Wrong? 10 Signs It’s Time for HVAC Repair

Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping your home cozy year-round, but even the most reliable systems encounter issues periodically. Spot 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: Higher Monthly Bills

A sudden spike in energy costs without a corresponding change in usage suggests that your HVAC system is not running as it should. Common causes include aging equipment, leaking air ducts or dirty coils, forcing your system to work that much harder to achieve your desired temperature. Steeper energy bills are frequently an early sign your system needs repair, so it’s crucial to monitor for any unexplained bill increases.

2: Unusual Noises

Your HVAC system should operate fairly quietly, but once you start hearing unfamiliar squealing sounds, it’s likely something’s wrong. These noises often suggest unsecured parts, deteriorated belts or a broken motor. Neglecting these sounds may lead to worse damage, so you should call a professional for furnace or AC repair as soon as you detect them.

3: Weird Odors

When your HVAC system is giving off unpleasant odors, it’s time to look into it. Musty smells are a sign of mold in your ductwork or HVAC system, while burnt odors indicate electrical problems or overworked components. These odors keep your home from smelling inviting, and in severe cases could even affect your health. A certified HVAC technician can assess and correct the issue to restore normal operation.

4: Weaker Airflow

If the air circulation coming from the air ducts feels weaker or erratic, several common issues might be to blame. The system’s air filter may be blocked, part of the ventilation may be leaking or the circulation motor may be failing. Not only will weak airflow make your home climate control uneven, it also forces your system to operate less effectively, leading to elevated energy bills and extra wear and tear.

5: Lukewarm Air

Sometimes the airflow is consistent, but the temperature is too lukewarm compared to your thermostat. When running your air conditioner, room-temperature “cooling” often points to insufficient coolant or a faulty compressor. Regarding the heating side, cooler air can be caused by a defective ignition system or issues with the ignitor. Resolving the root problem is the only way to reestablish home comfort.

6: Changing Temperatures

When one room in your home feels like you’re in the furnace while another room’s temperature is like the icebox, it’s usually because the HVAC system is struggling to distribute air evenly. This issue could result from leaky air ducts, a faulty thermostat or even the system itself losing efficiency. Irregular temperatures will obviously negatively impact comfort and can also elevate energy costs and require repairs.

7: Excessive Heating or Cooling Cycles

Your HVAC system should have normal heating or cooling cycles. If it often stops running 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, a clogged air filter or a poorly sized system. Fixing this problem as soon as you can stops wear and tear that could lead to equally early HVAC replacement.

8: Humidity Imbalance

Your HVAC system plays a significant role in controlling indoor humidity levels. If you detect unusually high humidity or dryness, something in the system may not be performing properly. High humidity levels are often gross and can promote mold growth, while too little humidity leads to itchy skin and nasal irritation. Problems like a defective compressor or a clogged drain line may stop your system from controlling humidity correctly. Luckily, these situations are quickly resolved.

9: Water Is Pooling Close By

Water pooling along your HVAC system is a known sign of trouble. This may have started with a backed-up condensate drain line, which prevents moisture from draining properly, or ice forming on the evaporator coils and slowly thawing. No matter the cause, reach out to a professional to resolve leaks as soon as you see them to prevent property damage and escalating issues.

10: An Issue with Your Thermostat

Is your HVAC system not reacting correctly to your thermostat inputs? For instance, the system may not kick on when you set the temperature, or it may frequently misinterpret commands. Whether the issue stems from the thermostat itself or its communication with the HVAC system, these concerns cause inefficiency and inconsistent comfort.

Schedule HVAC Repair

If your heating or air conditioning is exhibiting any of these signs, call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our licensed technicians are ready to provide prompt, reliable solutions for all your home comfort concerns. We stand behind our service with a 100% satisfaction guarantee as your comfort is and always will be our main priority. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and keep your home comfortable all year-round.