Ways to Know You Need HVAC Repair
It’s crucial that your HVAC system makes the inside of your home a pleasant place to live, controls humidity and enhances indoor air quality. But like any mechanical device, it may exhibit signs of trouble when it’s beginning to fail. Ignoring these signs can lead to an emergency breakdown at the worst possible time, requiring costly repairs. To prevent being blindsided, call a technician from Sure Temp Air Conditioning for consultation if you notice any of these signs your HVAC system needs attention.
Your HVAC System Is Producing Lukewarm Air
If your HVAC system can’t generate warm air in the winter or cool air in the summer, there’s a good chance it’s having issues. Warm air from an air conditioning system may be a sign the unit doesn’t have enough cooling fluid, a blocked condenser unit or a compressor malfunction. Meanwhile, cool air from your furnace may point to ignition problems, the furnace needs more fuel or a defective blower motor.
The Furnace or AC Doesn’t Run Consistently
Does your heating or air frequently cycle on and off before finishing a complete cycle? Commonly called short cycling, this problem can overwork your system and lower efficiency. Sometimes, a malfunctioning thermostat will incorrectly read the room temperature and result in the HVAC system turning on and off unnecessarily. A clogged air filter also may be another cause, because this can limit airflow and cause the unit to turn off to prevent damage.
Odd Noises Coming from Your HVAC
An HVAC system makes some noise while it’s working, but any sounds you don’t recognize are usually a cause for concern. Clattering sounds might mean parts have become detached, while loud thumps can point to a broken or disconnected component. Buzzing or grinding noises may be signs of motor issues, especially if parts are wearing out or malfunctioning. Odd noises almost never go away on their own, so a repair is necessary before things deteriorate more.
Nasty Smells Coming from Your Heating or Cooling System
It’s always concerning when your HVAC system produces a bad smell, but it could also be dangerous. A damp scent might indicate mold is growing within the ducts or the unit itself. If you smell smoke, it might signal a serious issue like an overheated motor. And the smell of spoiled eggs is the most concerning because it can point to a gas leak. In this case, turn off your HVAC system, exit the building and get into the fresh air. Once you’re outside and safe, call the fire department for immediate support.
Abnormally High Utility Bills
If your energy expenses shoot up but you haven’t altered your usage habits, your HVAC system may be working overtime to keep your home comfortable. This often happens as parts deteriorate and the system can’t operate as efficiently. You can delay this decline by maintaining your system regularly with tune-ups.
The Air in Your Home Is Extremely Humid
A heating and cooling system that works like it should will regulate indoor humidity alongside controlling the temperature. If your home is damp or you observe condensation on the windows, your system might not be dehumidifying your property properly. Excessive moisture in the air can feel unpleasant, encourage mold growth, warp wood furnishings and even negatively affect your electronics. Common causes include inadequate air circulation, dirty cooling coils or an improperly sized HVAC system.
Leaks or Water Around Your HVAC Unit
Finding a puddle around your HVAC unit is a sign you could have leaking cooling fluid or a blocked drain line. A refrigerant leak reduces cooling power and may cause the evaporator coil to freeze up, which creates moisture buildup when the ice thaws. Similarly, a clogged drain line results in water damage if not quickly resolved.
How to Know When You Need HVAC Repair or Replacement
If you spot that your HVAC system requires attention, but how can you determine if a repair or replacement is best? Here are some points to help you make a choice as to what’s best for your home:
- Your HVAC equipment is getting older: Most HVAC systems are good for 10 to 15 years with regular maintenance. If your unit is approaching or has gone beyond this age, it might be running on borrowed time. Older systems may be less energy efficient and more expensive to repair due to outdated components, so consider upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient model to save on utility bills and pay for fewer future repairs.
- The HVAC system in your home repeatedly fails: If you’re constantly scheduling heating or air repair, the costs can really add up. Eventually, you’ll need to quit wasting funds on an unreliable system and swap out your finicky system with a new, energy-efficient one.
- Repair costs are mounting: If HVAC repair costs more than half the price of a new unit, replacement is generally the smarter investment, especially if the system is aging.
- Your heating and cooling system can’t keep up: A system that has never really managed to keep your home comfortable may be undersized, oversized or poorly designed. A well-chosen new HVAC unit delivers better climate control and improves indoor air quality.
Contact Sure Temp Air Conditioning for Top-Notch Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing in
The team at Sure Temp Air Conditioning is committed to providing comfort with every visit. Our qualified, skilled HVAC technicians provide reliable solutions protected by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not totally happy with our service, we’ll work to make it right.
Call 480-331-2940 today to arrange your next HVAC repair or replacement in with Sure Temp Air Conditioning!