10 Signs the HVAC System Needs Repair

Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping your home pleasant all year long, but even the most trustworthy systems encounter issues periodically. Detect these problems early to save you from expensive repairs or the need for a full replacement. Here are 10 signs that you should set up HVAC repair without delay.

1 – Loud or Annoying Noises

Your HVAC system should hum along smoothly, but when you start hearing unfamiliar rattling sounds, it may be because something’s wrong. Loud and annoying noises often point to rattling parts, damage to the belts or a failing motor. Disregarding these sounds can lead to worse damage, so it’s best to reach out to a professional for furnace or AC repair as soon as you hear them.

2 – Weak Airflow

If the airflow coming from the air ducts feels worse or erratic, a few common issues could be to blame. The filter may be obstructed by debris, part of the air ducts may be loose or the air blower may be malfunctioning. Not only will weaker airflow make your home more uncomfortable, it also forces your system to operate less effectively, leading to escalating energy bills and extra wear and tear.

3 – Erratic Temperatures

When one room feels like an oven while another is more like cold storage, you can bet the HVAC system is struggling to circulate air evenly. This issue could result from ductwork leaks, a malfunctioning thermostat or even the system itself wearing out. Irregular temperatures will obviously reduce comfort and can also drive up energy costs and require repairs.

4 – Weird Smells

When your HVAC system gives off strange odors, it’s time to find out why. Damp smells are a sign of mold in your ductwork or HVAC unit, while burning/waxy odors point to electrical damage or overheated components. These odors keep your home from smelling fresh, and in severe cases can even affect your health. A local HVAC technician can assess and fix the issue to restore no-smell operation.

5 – Rising Monthly Bills

An unexplained increase in energy costs even though there’s not a corresponding shift in usage strongly indicates that your HVAC system is not running properly. Common culprits include worn-out equipment, leaking air ducts or dirty coils, forcing the HVAC to work longer and harder to maintain your set temperature. Steeper energy bills are often an early sign your system needs repair, so it’s important to monitor for any unexplained bill increases.

6 – A Broken Thermostat

Is your HVAC system not operating correctly to your thermostat inputs? For instance, the system may not start up when you adjust the temperature, or it may frequently ignore commands. Whether the issue stems from the thermostat itself or its link to the HVAC system, these malfunctions cause poor performance and comfort issues.

7 – Water Is Leaking Close By

Water gathering near your HVAC system is a clear sign of problems. This could be caused by a clogged condensate drain line, which stops moisture from flowing properly, or ice forming on the condenser coils and slowly melting. No matter the cause, get in touch with a professional to resolve leaks as soon as you see them to avoid property damage and more severe issues.

8 – Humidity Problems

Your HVAC system plays a big role in regulating indoor humidity levels. If you feel unusually increased humidity or dryness, the HVAC system may not be working properly. Elevated humidity levels are often gross and can lead to mold growth, while too little humidity leads to dry skin and nasal irritation. Concerns like a faulty compressor or a clogged drain line may stop your system from regulating humidity correctly. Fortunately, these situations are easily addressed.

9 – Excessive Short Cycling

Your HVAC system should have consistent on-and-off cycles. If it often stops running shortly after just beginning a cycle, the system is not functioning how it needs to. This specific malfunction, known as short cycling, can be caused by issues with the thermostat, a clogged air filter or a mismatched system. Resolving this problem early limits wear and tear that could cause a premature HVAC replacement.

10 – Air Isn’t the Desired Temperature

Sometimes the airflow is strong, but the temperature is too lukewarm compared to the settings. When using your air conditioner, warmer “cooling” often points to low refrigerant or a malfunctioning compressor. Regarding the heating side, cool air could be caused by a faulty ignition system or issues with the flame sensor. Addressing the primary problem is the only way to reestablish home comfort.

Get Professional HVAC Repair from McLoughlin Plumbing Heating & Cooling

If your furnace or air conditioning is displaying any of these signs, call McLoughlin Plumbing Heating & Cooling. Our certified technicians are ready to provide speedy, long-lasting solutions for all your home comfort needs. We back our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee because your comfort is and always will be our top priority. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and maintain total home comfort all year-round.