While it is highly recommended by the experts to get your HVAC system serviced every 6 months, certain signs can help you decide when it’s time to call in the experts for the HVAC service. If you hear unusual noises like bangs, hisses, or clicks, it means there are some underlying problems, while unpleasant odors such as burning or musty smells may indicate gas leaks or other issues.
Additionally, if your AC fails to blow cold air, water leaks into your home, or your energy bills increase unexpectedly, it’s time to call a residential HVAC technician. Addressing these issues timely can prevent further damage to your system and ensure your home remains comfortable and safe.
Indications You Need Residential HVAC Services
These are the signs indicating your HVAC system requires professional services.
Strange Noises From The HVAC System
All air conditioners make noise, but after using yours for a while, you can tell if the sounds are normal or not. If you start hearing strange noises, your air conditioner might have a problem. Different sounds mean different issues. Squeaking might mean loose or worn belts while grinding or banging, which could signal a damaged condenser. Whatever the sound, it’s best to get help from a professional HVAC company to check it out.
Bad Odors
If you smell something bad, there’s probably a problem. A burning smell or rotten eggs could mean a gas leak, so leave the property right away.
Other bad smells like mildew, stinky socks, or dead animals also need attention. Fix any strange odors quickly to keep your HVAC system and indoor air safe.
Short Cycling
Another indication you need residential HVAC services is when you experience short cycling. When your air conditioner keeps turning on and off quickly, it’s called short cycling. This means it runs for a short time, like fifteen seconds, then stops for about five seconds, repeating without fixing itself. It’s a problem because it prevents your home from getting to the right temperature. Short cycling can happen for different reasons, like having the wrong size AC unit or frozen coils. If you notice this happening, it’s best to call HVAC services near you to fix it.
Condenser Leaking
If you see fluid leaking next to your air conditioner’s condenser, it might be refrigerant. Refrigerant is the fluid that makes your AC work. Without enough of it, your AC might stop working.
This is usually easy to fix. An HVAC technician can come to your home, patch the leak, and refill the refrigerant.
Yellow Frame in The Furnace
We have talked a lot about air conditioner issues, so now, let’s move on to common furnace problems. One clear sign your furnace needs work is seeing a yellow flame inside.
Many furnaces let you see the flames inside, helping you spot problems early. The furnace flame should normally be blue. If it’s yellow, there’s likely dirt in the burner.
Dirt in the burner stops gas and air from burning properly, making the flameless efficient and not hot enough. If left unfixed, this issue will worsen. If you see a yellow flame, contact a reliable residential HVAC service provider right away.
Increase in Energy Bills
Although energy bills change with the seasons, they do not change dramatically and suddenly. You can check your bill and meter to see if it’s due to using more energy. Usually, if your HVAC system isn’t working properly, it takes up more energy, making your bills higher. A quick tune-up from a residential HVAC company can find and fix any issues, which can help lower your bills.
Read More: Signs Your Hvac System Needs Repair To Reduce Allergens
To Sum Up
If you hear strange noises like bangs or hisses, bad smells like burning or musty odors, and the AC not blowing cold air, these are clear indicators that something is wrong with your HVAC system, and you need to get it checked immediately. Water leaks, higher energy bills, or a yellow flame in the furnace also mean it’s time to call an HVAC technician. Regular maintenance is recommended twice a year, but addressing these issues quickly can prevent further damage and keep your home comfortable. All you have to do is contact a residential HVAC company and let the technician in when they arrive, and they can handle the rest.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do you know you need a new HVAC?
If your HVAC system frequently breaks down, makes unusual noises, or doesn’t cool or heat your home effectively, it might be time for a new one.
- How long should a residential HVAC system last?
A residential HVAC system typically lasts around 10-15 years with proper maintenance, but this can vary depending on usage and environmental factors.
- When should you replace HVAC?
Consider replacing your HVAC system if it’s older than 10-15 years, requires frequent repairs, or isn’t keeping your home comfortable anymore.
