Is Something Wrong? 10 Signs You Need HVAC Repair

Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping your home comfortable year-round, but even the most dependable systems encounter issues periodically. Catch these problems early to save you from 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 Monthly Bills

A sudden surge in energy costs even though there’s not a similar increase in usage is signaling that your HVAC system is not running efficiently. Common causes include old equipment, leaky ductwork or dirty coils, forcing the HVAC system to work much harder than normal to reach your set temperature. Jumping energy bills are frequently an early sign your system needs repair, so it’s vital to watch for unexplained bill increases.

2: Loud or Annoying Noises

Your HVAC system should run fairly quietly, but if you are noticing strange clanking sounds, it may be because something’s wrong. These noises often suggest faulty parts, worn-out belts or a defective motor. Disregarding these sounds could lead to worse damage, so it’s best to reach out to a professional for furnace or AC repair once you become aware of them.

3: Weird Smells

When your HVAC system gives off odd odors, it’s time to find out why. Musty smells suggest mold in your ductwork or HVAC system, while smoky odors could mean electrical damage or overheated components. These odors keep your home from smelling clean, and in severe cases could even impact your health. A certified HVAC technician can pinpoint and resolve the issue to restore clean-smelling operation.

4: Weak Airflow

If the airflow coming from the air ducts feels weak or inconsistent, several possible issues might be to blame. The blower’s air filter may be dirty, part of the air ducts may be damaged or the fan motor 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 elevated energy bills and extra wear and tear.

5: Lukewarm Air

Perhaps the airflow is strong, but the temperature is too lukewarm compared to your thermostat. When running your air conditioner, lukewarm “cooling” often points to insufficient coolant or a malfunctioning compressor. And for the heating side, cooler air can be caused by a defective ignition system or issues with the flame sensor. Identifying the primary problem is the only way to recover home comfort.

6: Inconsistent Temperatures

When one room in your home feels like you’re in the furnace while another is more like your refrigerator, you can bet your HVAC system is struggling to distribute air evenly. This issue could result from a break in the ventilation system, a defective thermostat or even the system itself wearing out. Inconsistent temperatures will obviously lower comfort and can also elevate energy costs and need repairs.

7: Excessive Heating or Cooling Cycles

Your HVAC system should have regular heating or cooling cycles. If it frequently shuts back off shortly after just starting up, the system is not operating how it needs to. This issue, known as short cycling, is often caused by thermostat problems, a clogged air filter or an improperly sized system. Addressing this problem as soon as you can prevents wear and tear that could contribute to equally early HVAC replacement.

8: Humidity Imbalance

Your HVAC system plays a big role in controlling indoor humidity levels. If you experience unusually increased humidity or dryness, something in the system may not be functioning properly. Elevated humidity levels are difficult to live with and can lead to mold growth, while too little humidity leads to cracked skin and nasal irritation. Root causes like a malfunctioning compressor or a moldy drain line may hinder your system from balancing humidity as it should. Thankfully, these concerns are quickly resolved.

9: Water Is Leaking Nearby

Water collecting along your HVAC system is a known sign of trouble. This may have started with an obstructed condensate drain line, which prevents moisture from clearing 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 escalating issues.

10: A Malfunctioning Thermostat

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

Arrange for HVAC Repair

If your heating system or air conditioning is exhibiting any of these signs, get in touch with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our licensed technicians are ready to provide prompt, dependable solutions for all your home comfort concerns. We stand behind our service with a 100% satisfaction guarantee because your comfort is and always will be our top priority. Contact us today to book an appointment and keep your home comfortable all year long.