5 Signs Your HVAC System Needs a Repair ASAP

There are signs everywhere, including signs your HVAC system needs repair. Do you know what to look for? If you’re not ready to spend a lot of time in a very hot house this summer, make a note of what could be indicators that your heating and cooling system aren’t doing as well as you might think. Many things can go wrong with this essential home system, and knowing what those things are can help you avert disaster or at least some very uncomfortable days and nights. We’ve got the five signs your HVAC system needs repair ASAP that you need to keep your cool this summer.

Sign #1: No Cool Air

Your air conditioner has one job – to make your home comfortable when it’s hot out. That includes providing cool air and reducing humidity. When your home feels warmer than it should, and you notice that cool air isn’t blowing out through the vents even when the system is running, that’s a sign you could need HVAC system repair. And if it’s hot out, you don’t want to wait until your house is sweltering before calling for service.

When your HVAC is on but blowing warm air there are several potential causes. One is that your thermostat is set to “on” instead of “auto,” so the fan blows even when the air conditioner isn’t cooling. That’s an easy fix. Change the setting to “auto” and ensure the temperature is correct. Another reason for warm air is a dirty evaporator coil. When dirt coats the coil, it can’t process the exchange of cool air, leaving you with a hot house. This requires a service call from an HVAC technician. You’ll also need professional service if the lack of cool air is from a refrigerant leak.

Sign #2: Your House Feels Very Humid

When your air conditioning system runs as it should, it not only cools your home by circulating cold air, but it also works to reduce humidity. As the AC operates, the humid air in your home circulates through the system, and as it contacts the evaporator coil, the water vapor in the air turns to condensation. That moisture then runs out of the condensate drain, reducing the humidity in your home. However, if the coil isn’t removing the humidity, it could have damage, dirt, or another issue that requires repair by an HVAC professional.

Sign #3: Increased Energy Bills

Your HVAC system is one of the biggest energy users in your home, but it’s essential to your comfort and safety. It’s unsafe to go without air conditioning, especially in the south when the weather gets extremely hot and humid, though it can be tempting when you see your energy bills each month. However, before you let the inside of your home feel as hot as the outside, pay close attention to those monthly bills. An increase when using more AC is normal, but a big jump isn’t. One of the signs your HVAC system needs repair is a significant increase in your energy bills in a short time. When this happens, it signals something is not functioning correctly, resulting in your HVAC system working harder to keep up with demand. If your utility bill makes you feel woozy and faint, it could be the heat, but it could be time to call your HVAC company and schedule a service call or preventative maintenance.

Sign #4: Signs of Water Under or Near Your HVAC Equipment

You should never see puddles or pools of water near your HVAC equipment. But, if you do, that’s a sign you need HVAC repair sooner than later. A leak can result from something as simple as a blocked condensate drain, but it could also be a sign of something more serious. Other issues that lead to leaks include a failed pump, a clogged drain line, a cracked or damaged drain pan, a broken condensate pump, and a drain line that’s broken or disconnected. All these things are reasons to call for repair service ASAP. The more water leaks near your HVAC equipment, the greater the chance of water damage to your home.

Sign #5: Weird Sounds are Coming from the HVAC System

All air conditioners make some noise, but they shouldn’t rattle, grind, squeal, or thump. However, if you hear those types of sounds coming from your HVAC unit, it’s cause for concern. Even if your air conditioner seems to run as it normally does, loud noises indicate something is not right, and it needs an inspection by a professional. Some common reasons for HVAC noises include a foreign object inside the unit, a loose or frayed fan belt, loose or broken parts, a refrigerant leak, motor, or compressor issues. An HVAC technician can diagnose and repair what’s ailing your air conditioner.

Are you seeing signs your HVAC system needs repair ASAP? Contact Wilson’s Refrigeration and Air today to schedule fast, reliable service to ensure your air conditioner keeps humming along.