Is Something Wrong? 10 Signs You Should Call for HVAC Repair

Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping your home comfortable all year long, but even the most reliable 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 book HVAC repair without delay.

1: Rising Heating and Cooling Bills

A sudden spike in energy costs even though there’s not a corresponding increase in usage is signaling that your HVAC system is not running as it should. Common culprits include aging equipment, leaking air ducts or dirty coils, forcing the HVAC system to work longer and harder to sustain your set temperature. Higher energy bills are often an early sign your system needs repair, so it’s vital to watch for unexplained bill increases.

2: Louder Noises

Your HVAC system should run smoothly, but when you are noticing strange clanking sounds, it may be because something’s wrong. These noises often signal rattling parts, fraying belts or a broken motor. Neglecting these sounds could lead to greater damage, so try to contact a professional for furnace or AC repair as soon as you become aware of them.

3: Weird Odors

When your HVAC system is giving off odd odors, it’s time to investigate. Musty smells are a sign of mold in your ductwork or HVAC system, while burnt odors could mean electrical problems or overworked components. These odors keep your home from smelling fresh, and in severe cases could even affect your health. A local HVAC technician can identify and correct the issue to restore proper operation.

4: Poor Airflow

If the air coming from your vents feels worse or spotty, a few possible issues could be to blame. The air filter may be blocked, part of the air ducts may be leaking or the air blower may be wearing out. Not only will weaker airflow make your home climate control uneven, it also forces your system to exert more effort, leading to higher energy bills and additional wear and tear.

5: Lukewarm Air

Perhaps the airflow is sufficient, but the temperature is too lukewarm compared to the settings. When running your air conditioner, warmer “cooling” often points to low refrigerant or a faulty compressor. Regarding the heating side, lukewarm air could be caused by a malfunctioning ignition system or issues with the flame sensor. Resolving the root problem is the only way to recover home comfort.

6: Swinging Temperatures

When one room feels like one big heater while another feels like cold storage, it’s likely your HVAC system is unable to distribute air evenly. This issue could stem from ductwork leaks, a defective thermostat or even the system itself wearing out. Unpredictable temperatures will obviously reduce comfort and can also elevate energy costs and require repairs.

7: Excessive Short Cycling

Your HVAC system should have predictable operating cycles. If it repeatedly shuts off shortly after just beginning a cycle, the system is not functioning how it is supposed to. This issue, known as short cycling, is often caused by a faulty thermostat, a blocked air filter or an over- or undersized system. Correcting this problem early prevents wear and tear that could contribute to a premature HVAC replacement.

8: Humidity Is Too High or Low

Your HVAC system plays an important role in regulating indoor humidity levels. If you detect unusually high humidity or dryness, the HVAC system may not be working properly. Increased humidity levels are difficult to live with and can cause mold growth, while reduced humidity leads to dry skin and nasal irritation. Issues like a faulty compressor or a moldy drain line may stop your system from balancing humidity effectively. Thankfully, these problems are easily addressed.

9: Water Is Leaking Nearby

Water leaking or standing near your HVAC system is a clear sign of problems. This could be caused by a clogged condensate drain line, which keeps moisture from draining properly, or ice forming on the evaporator coils and slowly thawing. Whatever the cause, contact a professional to resolve leaks as soon as you find them to stop property damage and growing issues.

10: A Faulty Thermostat

Is your HVAC system not reacting correctly to your thermostat inputs? For instance, the system may not turn on when you modify the temperature, or it may frequently misread commands. Whether the issue stems from the thermostat itself or its communication with the HVAC system, these problems cause inefficiency and temperature control problems.

Request HVAC Repair

If your heater or air conditioning is showing any of these signs, call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our certified technicians are ready to provide quick, long-lasting solutions for all your home comfort concerns. We ensure a job well done with a 100% satisfaction guarantee because your comfort is and always will be our top priority. Contact us today to set up an inspection and maintain total home comfort all year-round.