HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. All these components are essential for any house to be called a home, thus they are one of the greatest investments any homeowner makes. As a rule, installation of the whole system costs a lot, so people tend to think that such technology will last forever and neglect even the crassest instances of malfunction.
Unfortunately, regardless of the efforts to keep the system going, there are times when a complete HVAC repair and even a replacement is needed. Below we prepared six reasons to help you understand the clues and get ready for the hot summer season upfront.
1. Your air conditioner is very old or you don’t know its age
Energy Star advises replacing air conditioning systems if they are more than 10 years old. If you don’t know the age of your system (for instance, you’re buying a home and the previous owners didn’t leave such information), then experts advise complete HVAC repair just to be on the safe side.
Why 10 years?
The modern HVAC systems are durable and can last for that long; after 10-15 years they start to deteriorate and so cannot offer the same level of air. Older AC units generally used R-22 refrigerant; this kind of freon is not just old and outdated, but it’s also harmful to the environment. After the HVAC repair, your contractor will supply your unit with newer technologies and freon and so will reduce your carbon footprint and cut down on the energy bills.
2. Increasing energy bills
It doesn’t mean that you should compare the bill for March and for February and make some conclusions. You need to compare energy bill for the same month in different years. If the system works fine, then more or less the bills will be identical. If you need some HVAC repair, then you will see a sustainable rise in payment.
Many homeowners neglect this tip, but professional HVAC repair contractors explain that this is, in fact, the easiest way to trace any problems with your HVAC system.
If you want to avoid large HVAC repairs once in a while, then make sure to keep routine https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/maintaining-your-air-conditioner maintenance on your schedule. Maintenance will help you increase the HVAC lifespan and keep the units running as efficiently as possible. In case your HVAC system is old, consider complete upgrade in order to save as much as 20% on the energy bills.
3. Temperature drops
It’s one of the most vivid signs that you need HVAC repair. Unbalanced systems are always struggling to keep your home at a consistent temperature. Most often this means that thermostat is out of order, however, clogged filters, low fluid levels, or cracked ducts can also be the reason.
It might be a challenge to feel this temperature drops now because the weather is unstable. But if HVAC repair is not on your list of urgent repairs, then you can wait until the heat comes to feel this difference. Of course, it’s much more effective to just call a contractor who will complete a routine check to verify the condition of your HVAC system.
Once you’re interested in learning more about your home, click the button below to find HVAC repair contractors in your area.
4. Dusty home
HVAC system is not just thermostat that preserves comfortable temperature in your home. It is also an air filtration system that guarantees the best air quality and ventilation to you. If the system works efficiently, the air will always remain fresh and almost dustless. Humidity level inside the house will also be under control. Higher dustiness of your home and complication in breathing or drying up mouth are also common signs of HVAC problems. In such cases, you might need minor HVAC repairs, such as filter cleaning or replacement. But be ready, that this might happen due to the freon quality or age.
5. Odd sounds
HVAC system that is well-maintained should produce very little noise. If it’s located somewhere in the basement, then it should not bother you at all. Aging systems frequently start making unusual noises, such as grinding and squealing. If you head these or any other unusual sounds, then you need to have the system inspected immediately.
6. Unusual smells
Very often HVAC systems smell like burning dust and this means that you simply need to clean your air conditioning filter. Yet, if you smell any other kinds of weird smell, make sure that you urgently call a HVAC repair contractor to inspect your system. It’s essential to call a professional because unusual smell may appear because of melting wiring or mold in the ducts. The former case may end up with a fire, while the latter may and usually does lead to airways illnesses.
