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 trustworthy systems encounter issues from time to time. Catch these problems early to reduce the risk of expensive repairs or the need for a full replacement. Here are 10 signs that you should set up HVAC repair without delay.

1: More Expensive Energy Bills

An unexplained surge in energy costs even though there’s not a corresponding change in usage is signaling that your HVAC system is not running properly. Common causes include worn-out equipment, leaks in the air ducts or dirty coils, forcing your system to work much harder than normal to achieve your preferred temperature. Jumping energy bills are often one of the first signs your system needs repair, so it’s vital to be mindful of unexplained cost increases.

2: Unusual Noises

Your HVAC system should run without making too much noise, but once you begin to hear strange rattling sounds, it’s likely something’s wrong. Loud and annoying noises often indicate faulty parts, deteriorated belts or a broken motor. Neglecting these sounds can lead to greater damage, so try to call a professional for furnace or AC repair once you become aware of them.

3: Foul Smells

When your HVAC system gives off foul odors, it’s time to investigate. Musty smells point to mold in your ductwork or HVAC unit, while burnt odors indicate electrical problems or overheated components. These odors prevent your home from smelling fresh, and in severe cases may even affect your health. A local HVAC technician can diagnose and correct the issue to restore proper operation.

4: Poor Airflow

If the air circulation coming from the air ducts feels like it’s gotten worse or erratic, several common issues might be to blame. The system’s air filter may be obstructed by debris, part of the ventilation may be loose or the fan motor may be wearing out. Not only does weak airflow make your home climate control uneven, it also forces your system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and additional wear and tear.

5: Lukewarm Air

Maybe the airflow is normal, but the temperature is too lukewarm compared to the settings. When running your air conditioner, milder “cooling” often points to low refrigerant or a faulty compressor. On the heating side, a lack of hot air could come from a faulty ignition system or issues with the flame sensor. Addressing the underlying problem is the only way to reestablish home comfort.

6: Inconsistent Temperatures

When one part of the house feels like an oven while another feels like your refrigerator, it’s likely your HVAC system is unable to distribute air evenly. This issue could originate from leaky air ducts, a faulty thermostat or even the system itself performing worse and worse. Irregular temperatures will obviously reduce comfort and can also drive up energy costs and force you to schedule repairs.

7: Excessive Short Cycling

Your HVAC system should have normal on-and-off cycles. If it often turns off shortly after just powering on, the system is not running how it is supposed to. This common problem, known as short cycling, is usually caused by issues with the thermostat, a blocked air filter or an improperly sized system. Resolving this problem early mitigates wear and tear that could lead to a premature HVAC replacement.

8: Humidity Imbalance

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 working properly. Excessive humidity levels are difficult to live with and can promote mold growth, while lower humidity leads to cracked skin and nasal irritation. Problems like a malfunctioning compressor or a clogged up drain line may stop your system from balancing humidity effectively. Thankfully, these concerns are highly repairable.

9: Water Is Leaking Nearby

Water pooling near your HVAC system is a common sign of trouble. This may have started with a clogged condensate drain line, which prevents 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 address leaks as soon as you notice them to reduce property damage and worsening issues.

10: A Broken Thermostat

Is your HVAC system not reacting correctly to your thermostat inputs? For instance, the system may not turn on when you set the temperature, or it may frequently misunderstand commands. Whether the issue stems from the thermostat itself or its relationship with the HVAC system, these concerns cause lack of efficiency and temperature control problems.

Request HVAC Repair

If your heater or air conditioning is displaying any of these signs, get in touch with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our licensed technicians are ready to provide speedy, dependable solutions to all your home comfort concerns. We stand behind our service with a 100% satisfaction guarantee because your comfort is and always will be our number one priority. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and protect your sense of comfort all year-round.