4 Signs of an HVAC Issue
Without repairs from a professional, a minor problem with your home’s HVAC system can become severe. You might even have to replace it. Fortunately, you can save money and extend your HVAC system’s life by having your equipment checked by an expert at least once per year and changing your air filter every few months. Here are four signs of an HVAC issue in your Thomasville, Georgia, home:
Strange Noises
If your air conditioner is in good condition, it should operate fairly quietly. You might hear air moving through your HVAC system’s ductwork, the fan for your indoor air handler, or a clicking sound when your equipment comes on or shuts off. You might also hear a popping sound when your ducts change temperature after your heater comes on in winter.
However, you should contact a professional immediately if you hear other sounds. Scurrying noises could mean you have pests in your ductwork, and a leak could cause a whistling noise. Grinding or screeching are often signs of a part that needs replacement or additional lubrication.
If your HVAC system is turning on and off frequently, its capacity could be larger than your home needs. A smaller unit will use less energy and keep the temperature in your house more constant.
Bad Smells
If your air conditioner isn’t working properly, it might not remove as much moisture from your home’s air. High humidity can lead to pests, water damage and biological growth. If you smell pest droppings or a musty scent, change your HVAC system’s air filter. Otherwise, organisms and other contaminants in your ducts will spread to the rest of your home. Too much moisture can make your wooden floors and furniture swell and rot as well.
A leak in your insulation could let smelly or polluted outdoor air into your home, and a gas leak could produce an odor that smells like sulfur or rotten eggs. If you notice this scent, leave your home immediately and call your gas company’s emergency number. A burning odor could be a sign of faulty wiring. You should turn off your air conditioner until you can get it checked by an expert.
Uncomfortable Home
In addition to bad smells, a clogged air filter or dirty ductwork could reduce your HVAC system’s airflow. As a result, it can make you feel hot and stuffy in summer, even when your air conditioner has been running for a while. It also raises your utility bills and increases wear and tear on your system because it has to work harder. You could experience asthma or allergy symptoms and other uncomfortable health problems. You might also have to deal with lots of dust on your floors and furniture.
If some areas always feel too warm, you could have a leak in your ductwork or insulation. You might also have an air register blocked by carpeting or furniture. A malfunctioning or poorly placed thermostat can make your home uncomfortable as well. Make sure your thermostat is near the center of your house away from outer walls and direct sunlight.
Icy Outdoor Unit
Heat pumps and air conditioners have an outdoor unit with a fan that blows air over an evaporator coil in warm weather. Condensation there could freeze, keeping your HVAC system from transferring heat efficiently and raising your utility bills. If you see ice on your air conditioner, turn it off and let the ice melt. If the ice forms again when you turn your unit back on, contact a professional. You could have a broken fan or a refrigerant leak.
Waller Heating & Air Conditioning has decades of air conditioning experience. We can help you stay comfortable and keep your HVAC system in great condition. For outstanding service, call us anytime at (229) 375-5040.
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