While regular and ongoing preventive maintenance can help avoid significant HVAC repair issues, performance or efficiency issues are sometimes unavoidable. If overlooked or ignored, minor issues requiring a quick fix could develop into big problems requiring major repairs or even complete system replacements. While we certainly understand no homeowner ever wants to call for any level of service, having a technician visit as soon as possible provides the best chance of preventing worsening damage resulting in high-cost HVAC repairs.
You know your home better than anyone and are likely to notice even small changes in its comfort. Stay attentive and always look for the first signs that something could be wrong with your HVAC system. If you experience one or more of the following signs, shut down your system and contact an experienced service expert today.
1. Weak or Wrong-Temperature Airflow
The air temperature not matching thermostat settings is typically the most apparent sign homeowners encounter, tipping them off to potential problems. Whether you’re not getting warm air in the winter or your air conditioning fails to cool air in the summer, several potential problems may be at play.
Reduced airflow from your vents often indicates issues with your system’s blower motor, clogged air filters, or cracked or obstructed ductwork. The underlying issue with air temperature may result from a simple thermostat malfunction or severe problems like a faulty unit compressor.
2. Abnormally High Energy Bills
If there aren’t any obvious giveaways that something is wrong, unexpectedly high energy bills are often the first sign of malfunctions impacting efficiency. A sudden dramatic spike in your monthly energy bill typically means your system must work much harder than usual to do its job. At that pace, it’s only a matter of time before the extra strain causes other, likely more serious issues.
A sudden increase in your home’s heating or cooling energy bills, without any corresponding change in usage, could indicate efficiency issues due to dirty coils, refrigerant leaks, or other worn-out components.
3. Strange Sounds or Smells
Plenty of sounds are entirely normal for your HVAC system to make. For example, you’ll probably notice a brief audible click when the thermostat connects to the unit. A steady humming sound from most equipment while running is also natural. However, anything outside of those sounds may be a reason for concern. Promptly turn off your system if you hear any sudden grinding, banging, clanking, rattling, squealing, or screeching sounds. There may be various loose or damaged parts, worn-out components, or other debris in the system.
You may not see or feel any signs of HVAC problems, but your other senses can also help monitor for malfunctions. Unusually foul, musty, or burning odors emanating from vents could indicate harmful mold growth, electrical wiring issues, or even a dead animal inside ductwork or other equipment.
4. Frequent Short Cycling
Frequent short cycling, where your system rapidly turns on and off, indicates underlying problems that require attention. This behavior not only reduces the efficiency of your HVAC system but can also lead to increased wear and tear, higher energy bills, and uncomfortable fluctuations in indoor temperature.
If the HVAC system is too large for the space it serves, it can cool or heat the area quickly and then shut off, only to restart soon after. If there’s a refrigerant leak, the system might be unable to maintain the set temperature, leading to frequent cycling on and off. Short cycling could also be due to issues with the thermostat, dirty air filters, or malfunctioning components like compressors or sensors.
5. Leaks or Excessive Moisture
Moisture is a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can multiply in damp HVAC components such as air ducts or drain pans. Once established, mold spores can be distributed throughout your home via the HVAC system, impacting indoor air quality and potentially causing health issues for occupants, especially those with allergies or respiratory conditions.
Never ignore any signs of water leaks or moisture gathering around the HVAC unit or inside vents and ducts. Excessive moisture means extra humidity is leaking into our home and could indicate issues with the condensate drain line, refrigerant leaks, or problems with the evaporator coil.
Don’t Delay, Call Precision Comfort Systems Today
If you notice any of these signs or symptoms in your home, it’s critically essential to address them immediately. To prevent exacerbating further damage and ensure efficient operations of your HVAC system, always err on the side of caution. Reach out to Precision Comfort Systems at the first sign of any issues.
Our technicians have seen it all, helping families across Zionsville, Carmel, Westfield, Noblesville, Fishers, Cicero, and Northern Indianapolis address their home comfort issues and concerns. Empowered by high-quality training and years of experience, we can promptly diagnose your system’s problems, offer honest insight, and make the necessary repairs to restore your home’s comfort.