HVAC Repairs 101: What New Homeowners Should Watch Out For

The HVAC system is crucial for any home, so it’s important to make sure it’s in working condition at all times. New homeowners, however, may not know what to watch out for to determine if there are any issues with the HVAC system. If issues aren’t addressed quickly, they could get worse and lead to the system stopping working. Instead, these are the signs new homeowners should look for to determine if they need to have the HVAC system repaired. 

Issues Keeping the Home at a Steady Temperature

If the house is too hot during the summer or too cold during the winter, it could be an issue with the HVAC system being able to properly heat or cool the home. If it’s struggling to keep the set temperature, repairing an HVAC system may become necessary. A professional can determine what is causing it to struggle and can let homeowners know what needs to be done to get it working again. In most cases, the repair can be done the same day. 

Any Odd Noises or Odors

If there are any odd noises or odors, it’s a good idea to stop using the system and call in a professional for help right away. Odd noises can occur when parts start to wear out and make noises as the system tries to run. Odd odors can be from dust and debris in the system or could be a sign that something is burning. Turning off the system until repairs are made helps prevent the issue from getting worse and can potentially help prevent a fire. 

Increasing Energy Bills

Though energy bills are increasing in general, there shouldn’t be a huge spike from one month to the next. The cost will go up during the hottest and coldest parts of the year, when the system is working harder to keep the home at the right temperature. If the bill goes up rapidly, though, it’s a sign that something’s wrong and the system may be working a lot harder than it should to keep indoor temperatures consistent. Having the system inspected is a good idea to help make sure it’s running properly and reduce the energy bills before the next billing cycle ends. 

Frequent Cycling Issues

Cycling occurs when the system turns on and off, and it is a normal part of the way an HVAC system operates. The system turns on and off as needed to keep the temperature consistent throughout the home. If it’s not working properly, though, it may cycle on and off more frequently. This can indicate an issue with the air conditioner that needs to be fixed right away. Along with increasing energy costs due to turning on and off so fast, this also increases wear and tear on the system and can cause further issues if it’s not corrected right away. 

 

These are some of the most common signs that an air conditioner isn’t working properly. However, if the air conditioner isn’t working as expected or there are any other signs that something might be wrong, it’s always better to have the system inspected by a professional. This will enable homeowners to get repairs done faster, so they don’t have to worry about it quitting when they need it the most.