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Summer is coming, and now is the time to ensure HVAC systems are working properly.
Nobody wants to wait until the temperature climbs outdoors to find the system is malfunctioning and the home won’t cool.
Many things can go wrong with this system, and the following five things are common problems HVAC technicians deal with regularly. They will be happy to help resolve any issue you are experiencing.
Inadequate Air Flow
When a person turns their air conditioner on for the first time in months, the airflow might appear inadequate. Many homeowners wonder if the system needs time to operate properly once again.
However, modern HVAC systems should begin cooling the home as soon as the person turns the thermostat down. This ensures the home reaches the desired temperature rapidly.
If this doesn’t happen, the system needs professional attention to determine what is going wrong. Weak air coming from one or more vents in the home is another sign the air conditioner isn’t functioning as intended.
Some people complain that the A/C continues to run, but the home remains humid. These signs suggest the system cannot provide consistent airflow.
Before calling the pros, make certain the outdoor unit remains free of obstructions and all vents in the home are open. Check the air filter and change it if the filter is dirty.
Finally, check the thermostat to see if it needs new batteries, as this could be the source of the problem. If taking these steps doesn’t resolve the issue, you probably need A/C repairs, and it is time to call for professional help in determining the problem and the best solution.
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Unusual Noises
Air conditioners should run quietly in the background. Homeowners often learn the signs their HVAC system makes and can detect when something changes within the system.
They hear a new noise and wonder what could cause it. However, they don’t know where to start diagnosing the problem.
Banging sounds from the unit suggest something has come loose in the compressor or the indoor blower is not properly balanced. Call for help in these situations.
Clanking noises also serve as a sign one or more parts have come loose in the system, while a clicking sound might mean the control is defective or the thermostat is failing.
Buzzing sounds come from loose components, a loose fan blade, or many other failures within the system. Squealing noises indicate a blower is going bad, and humming noises suggest something is off within the unit.
If you hear a screaming noise from the system, it is a cry for help. Turn the A/C off right away and request a service visit. The internal pressure within the unit could be the reason for this noise and ignoring the sound could put your family and home at risk.
Regardless of what noise you hear coming from the system, if it is new, call an HVAC technician for help. It’s best to err on the side of caution to prevent the need for costly repairs in the coming days or weeks. No problem is too big or too small for an experienced technician.
Strange Smells
Any strange smell coming from the HVAC unit requires investigation. A person might smell something that reminds them of their car exhaust.
This usually means there is a leak in the refrigerant line, and you need to call a service tech. When the smell makes you think something in the home is burning, immediately turn the unit off. One or more of the electrical components has a problem and needs attention.
There may be an odor when you turn the unit on for the first time each season, but this smell should quickly go away. The smell of rotten eggs coming from the HVAC unit often means an animal has made its way into the ductwork and died.
While the homeowner can remove the dead carcass, it’s best to have the system examined to ensure the animal didn’t damage the ductwork before passing away.
When the smell reminds you of a skunk, turn the system off right away. Gas could be leaking from the system, which requires immediate attention.
Rising Utility Bills
Many people dread opening their utility bills each month, as they know energy costs are on the rise. Problems within a residential HVAC system can lead to higher energy bills each month.
For example, the issue could be a ductwork leak or a broken thermostat switch. At times, the rising bills come because of an aging unit that no longer runs efficiently. However, the problem could be nothing more than a lack of maintenance.
A dirty filter forces the system to work harder to bring the home to the desired temperature. A refrigerant leak could lead to the system short-cycling, which means the system turns on and off frequently as it works to cool the home.
Call for a service visit to learn what is leading to higher energy bills. The technician will examine the system to determine the problem and how best to fix it.
Something Seems Different with the System
A homeowner gets to know their HVAC system over time. When something changes with this system, they notice it. However, they cannot pinpoint what is different. An HVAC technician is helpful in determining the problem.
They do a thorough inspection of the system to identify any parts at risk of failure and other potential issues. Following this inspection, they make recommendations on repairs, maintenance, and more to keep the system up and running as long as possible. This helps to keep energy costs down while ensuring the system works when you need it most.
Don’t work on the HVAC system yourself. With many moving parts in the system, it’s easy to fix one problem while overlooking two others.
When working with a professional HVAC technician, you have peace of mind. You can feel confident the system will work when you need it most. Call today to schedule your service appointment for a comfortable home all year long.
