Did you know that HVAC components can last anywhere from seven to 100 years? But even if we only factor in the heating and cooling units, you’ll be happy to know that they can last 7 to 25 years. For central AC units, it’s 7 to 15 years, while it’s 15 to 25 for furnaces.
However, those estimates only apply to well-cared-for systems. Thus, if you’ve been lax with yours, you might have to call a local HVAC company for help sooner than later.
But what exactly are the signs you need professional HVAC help?
We’ve outlined the top indications below, so read on.
- Thermostat Reading Feels Off
Your HVAC thermostat measures the indoor ambient temperature. It then uses those readings to activate its heating and cooling cycle. The cycle starts when the room temp is below or above the thermostat setting.
For example, let’s say it’s summer and you have the thermostat set to 78° Fahrenheit. If your home’s ambient temp is 80°, though, your thermostat should trigger the A/C unit to start the cooling cycle. In doing so, the system can begin bringing the temp down to 78°.
However, if the thermostat has a problem, it might misread the temperature. In that case, the HVAC system may fail to start and adequately cool your home. As a result, your abode may continue to feel sweltering hot, muggy, or both.
Sometimes, a quick thermostat battery replacement may do the trick. But, if that doesn’t help, it’s time to call a local provider of professional HVAC services.
- Wrong Temperature
Some HVAC systems have a reverse cycle technology that lets them cool and heat. If this is what you have and your system heats instead of cools (or vice versa), check its current mode. You may have accidentally changed it to an incorrect setting.
If you don’t have a reverse cycle system, the issue might be due to a unit set to fan mode. In this scenario, the HVAC only blows unconditioned air throughout your home. It’s neither heating nor cooling the air, so make sure you set it to the correct mode (heat or cool).
If none of those tips help, it’s time to call a local heating and air conditioning company. Your HVAC system may already have a defective compressor or gas leak that a pro must fix.
- Electrical Problems
Aside from the troubleshooting steps above, you can wash or replace air filters. Likewise, you can clean HVAC vents and even clear the outdoor unit yourself. Indeed, these are simple fixes and maintenance tasks you can and should try to DIY.
Other than those mentioned above, don’t try to fix anything electrical on your HVAC. It’s one of the worst HVAC repair mistakes you could ever commit; plus, it’s dangerous. You might accidentally electrocute yourself or start an electrical fire.
No power is a typical symptom of electrical woes in HVAC systems. Additionally, weird and loud crackling and hissing noises can mean electrical troubles. The same goes if you smell anything odd, like burning or melting rubber.
Contact a heating and AC company immediately if you notice any of those signs.
Call a Local HVAC Company ASAP
Remember: Heaters and A/Cs can help protect you from cold and heat-related illnesses. However, they can also pose electrical and fire hazards if they malfunction. Indeed, of all U.S. house fires in 2019, heating accounted for 9.3%, while electrical malfunction caused 6.8%.
So, if the HVAC troubleshooting steps we shared don’t help, it’s time to ring up the pros. Call a local HVAC company before your system fails or causes a disaster.
Did you like this post? We have more to share, so feel free to read them now!