Is There a Problem? 10 Signs You Should Call for HVAC Repair

Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping your home livable year-round, but even the most reliable systems encounter issues occasionally. 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 arrange HVAC repair without delay.

1: Higher Monthly Bills

An unexplained increase in energy costs even though there’s not a similar shift in usage suggests that your HVAC system is not running optimally. Common causes include worn-out equipment, leaking ductwork or dirty coils, forcing your system to work much harder than normal to sustain your set temperature. Steeper energy bills are often an early sign your system needs repair, so it’s vital to pay attention to unexplained cost increases.

2: Loud or Annoying Noises

Your HVAC system should operate smoothly, but once you start hearing odd clanking sounds, you know something’s wrong. These noises often indicate unsecured parts, fraying belts or a defective motor. Neglecting these sounds could lead to more severe damage, so it’s best to call a professional for furnace or AC repair as soon as you hear them.

3: Unpleasant Smells

When your HVAC system is giving off unpleasant odors, it’s time to check it out. Musty smells point to mold in your ductwork or HVAC system, while burnt odors indicate electrical damage or the failure of certain components. These odors stop your home from smelling clean, and in severe cases may even harm your health. A local HVAC technician can assess and fix the issue to restore normal operation.

4: Weaker Airflow

If the air coming from your vents feels like it’s gotten worse or uneven, a few possible issues could be to blame. The blower’s air filter may be obstructed by debris, part of the ductwork may be damaged or the fan motor may be breaking down. Not only does weaker airflow make your home climate control uneven, it also forces your system to run inefficiently, leading to escalating energy bills and accelerated wear and tear.

5: Lukewarm Air

Sometimes the airflow is sufficient, but the temperature is too lukewarm compared to the settings. When running your air conditioner, room-temperature “cooling” often points to a refrigerant leak or a defective compressor. On the heating side, lukewarm air could come from a defective ignition system or issues with the ignition system. Identifying the primary problem is the only way to restore home comfort.

6: Changing Temperatures

When one part of the house feels like a sauna while another room’s temperature is like cold storage, you can bet your HVAC system is failing to circulate air evenly. This issue could be caused by a break in the ventilation system, a defective thermostat or even the system itself losing efficiency. Uneven temperatures will obviously decrease comfort and can also raise energy costs and force you to schedule repairs.

7: Excessive Short Cycling

Your HVAC system should have normal on-and-off cycles. If it frequently shuts off shortly after just turning on, the system is not operating how it is supposed to. This specific malfunction, known as short cycling, can be caused by issues with the thermostat, a dirty air filter or an over- or undersized system. Fixing this problem early prevents wear and tear that could result in equally early HVAC replacement.

8: Humidity Is Too High or Low

Your HVAC system plays a significant role in regulating indoor humidity levels. If you notice unusually increased humidity or dryness, your system may not be functioning properly. Excessive humidity levels are uncomfortable and can encourage mold growth, while too little humidity leads to cracked skin and nasal irritation. Concerns like a defective compressor or a clogged up drain line may stop your system from balancing humidity efficiently. Fortunately, these situations are highly repairable.

9: Water Is Leaking Nearby

Water pooling along your HVAC system is a known sign of trouble. This could be caused by a clogged condensate drain line, which stops moisture from moving through the lines properly, or ice forming on the condenser coils and slowly melting. No matter the cause, contact a professional to fix 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 responding correctly to your thermostat inputs? For instance, the system may not activate when you change the temperature, or it may frequently misread commands. Whether the issue stems from the thermostat itself or its communication with the HVAC system, these concerns cause inefficiency and comfort issues.

Request HVAC Repair

If your heating system or air conditioning is showing any of these signs, contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our certified technicians are ready to provide quick, lasting solutions for all your home comfort needs. We stand behind our service with a 100% satisfaction guarantee as your comfort is and always will be our number one priority. Contact us today to set up an appointment and keep your home comfortable all year long.