Is There a Problem? 10 Signs You Need HVAC Repair

Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping your home livable throughout the year, but even the most trustworthy systems encounter issues occasionally. Catch these problems early to save you from expensive repairs or the need for a full replacement. Here are 10 signs that you should book HVAC repair without delay.

1: A Spike in Monthly Bills

An unexplained spike in energy costs without a similar increase in usage is a sign that your HVAC system is not running as it should. Common causes include aging equipment, leaks in the air ducts or dirty coils, forcing the HVAC system to work that much harder to reach your set temperature. Jumping energy bills are often among the first signs your system needs repair, so it’s vital to be mindful of unexplained utility increases.

2: Louder Noises

Your HVAC system should operate in the background, but if you are noticing odd banging sounds, it’s likely something’s wrong. These noises often signal unsecured parts, fraying belts or a defective motor. Overlooking these sounds could lead to worse damage, so you should get in touch with a professional for furnace or AC repair once you hear them.

3: Foul Smells

When your HVAC system is giving off odd odors, it’s time to look into it. Damp smells indicate mold in your ductwork or HVAC unit, while smoky odors suggest electrical problems or the failure of certain components. These odors stop your home from smelling pleasant, and in severe cases can even mess with your health. A professional HVAC technician can pinpoint and repair the issue to restore no-smell operation.

4: Weak Airflow

If the air circulation coming from the ventilation feels like it’s gotten worse or erratic, several common issues might be to blame. The system’s air filter may be dirty, part of the ductwork may be damaged or the circulation motor may be wearing out. Not only will weaker airflow make your home more uncomfortable, it also forces your system to exert more effort, leading to escalating energy bills and excessive wear and tear.

5: Lukewarm Air

Maybe the airflow is strong, but the temperature is unusually mild compared to your thermostat. When turning on your air conditioner, room-temperature “cooling” often points to a refrigerant leak or a failing compressor. Regarding the heating side, lukewarm air may be caused by a faulty ignition system or when something goes wrong with the ignitor. Addressing the primary problem is the only way to reestablish home comfort.

6: Swinging Temperatures

When one room feels like a sauna while another room’s temperature is like cold storage, you can bet the HVAC system is failing to circulate air evenly. This issue could result from a break in the ventilation system, a faulty thermostat or even the system itself becoming less efficient. Uneven temperatures will obviously decrease comfort and can also drive up energy costs and need repairs.

7: Excessive Short Cycling

Your HVAC system should have consistent on-and-off cycles. If it frequently turns off shortly after just powering on, the system is not running how it needs to. This issue, known as short cycling, is often caused by thermostat malfunctions, a clogged air filter or an improperly sized system. Resolving this problem earlier avoids wear and tear that could result in a premature HVAC replacement.

8: Humidity Problems

Your HVAC system plays a big role in regulating indoor humidity levels. If you detect unusually excessive 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 cracked skin and nasal irritation. Problems like a broken compressor or a blocked drain line may hinder your system from regulating humidity effectively. Thankfully, these problems are highly repairable.

9: Water Leaks Nearby

Water gathering along your HVAC system is a common sign of trouble. This may have started with a blocked condensate drain line, which stops moisture from clearing properly, or ice forming on the refrigerant coils and slowly melting. No matter the cause, call a professional to resolve leaks as soon as you find them to prevent property damage and growing issues.

10: A Faulty Thermostat

Is your HVAC system not responding correctly to your thermostat inputs? For instance, the system may not kick on when you modify the temperature, or it may frequently ignore commands. Whether the issue stems from the thermostat itself or its link to the HVAC system, these issues cause inefficiency and inconsistent comfort.

Schedule HVAC Repair

If your furnace or air conditioning is displaying any of these signs, call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our trained technicians are ready to provide fast, long-lasting solutions to all your home comfort needs. We ensure a job well done with a 100% satisfaction guarantee since your comfort is and always will be our top priority. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and keep your home comfortable all year-round.