4 Signs You Need to Service Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system does a lot of work for you, so it’s easy to overlook the maintenance needed. However, when your system starts acting up, it’s important that you act quickly.

Banging, rattling and whistling noises are warning signs that something needs to be adjusted, cleaned or replaced. Heed these warnings, or you’ll find yourself with a much higher repair bill.

1. You’re Experiencing Uncomfortable Temperatures

It’s frustrating when certain rooms in your home don’t feel warm despite your thermostat setting being at a comfortable temperature. This happens when your HVAC system isn’t properly sized for your home or doesn’t have zoning installed.

During an energy system installation, contractors use larger ducts and additional supply vents to ensure that your home’s air is evenly distributed. They also install dampers that can be used to regulate the flow of air into each room.

Blocked vents can also prevent your HVAC system from spreading warm air throughout your home. If you find that a room is colder than usual, check to see if furniture, curtains, or rugs are blocking the vents.

If you’ve checked all of these issues and are still experiencing uneven temperatures in your home, call an AC company to balance your heating and cooling system. This will even out your home’s temperatures and make you more comfortable. A well-balanced system will also reduce energy costs and wear and tear on your equipment.

2. You’re Experiencing Uncomfortable Noises

Just like you take your car to the shop when something doesn’t feel right, you should bring your HVAC system in when strange sounds occur. Unexplained noises like squealing, banging, or gurgling may indicate your heating or cooling system is in need of repairs.

Unusual sounds also include hissing, which could mean there is a water leak in the system. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed as soon as possible, and the best way to do so is by scheduling a tune-up with an HVAC professional.

A clogged air filter can lead to high-pitched whining noises from your AC unit, while gurgling can signify a refrigerant leak. A technician can help you correct these issues, which can make your home safer and more comfortable for everyone in it. In fact, routine maintenance can extend the lifespan of your current system, putting off costly replacement costs. This is an investment well worth it, considering how much more money you’ll save on energy bills and potential system repairs.

3. Your Energy Bills Are Increasing

Ever-changing energy prices can cause your electricity costs to fluctuate, but a significant increase is a clear warning sign that you need to look for ways to cut down on your consumption. Fortunately, there are plenty of small steps and major home improvement projects that can help you take control of your energy costs.

Leaving lights or appliances on when not in use is one of the biggest culprits of high electricity bills. Make sure everyone in your household is making an effort to switch off all the lights and fans after they’re done using them. Also, consider investing in new energy-efficient windows and insulation for your attic space.

Clogged air filters and neglecting HVAC maintenance can also lead to higher electricity bills. A dirty filter forces your AC system to work harder to provide the same level of cooling, consuming more electricity. Keeping your air filter clean can reduce electricity consumption by as much as 17%.

4. You’re Experiencing Uncomfortable Air

If you’ve been waking up with itchy or watery eyes, or feeling as though your allergies are flaring up more than usual, it may be time to get your HVAC system checked. It’s important to remember that your HVAC system is responsible for filtering out pollutants and allergens.

Unexplained airflow problems are another sure sign that your home’s HVAC system isn’t working properly. Having your system serviced twice a year helps ensure that all components are running as they should, ensuring that the air you and your family breathe is as clean as possible.

Many homeowners don’t even realize how important it is to schedule a checkup for their heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system until something goes wrong. It’s best to get your system serviced in the fall before it’s used for heating, and in the spring before you turn it on again to cool your house. With regular maintenance, including cleaning evaporator coils, replacing filters, and lubricating moving parts, your system should last longer than it otherwise might.