Homeowners should become familiar with the heating and cooling equipment, the model and how the components function together. This is good in order to quickly troubleshoot issues and make minor fixes or know when to call for assistance.

One thing many homeowners overlook is prevention. Being proactive can save substantially in the long run. Reputable and quality providers such as Dran’s Heating & AC in Newport News, VA, gives homeowners peace of mind knowing their system stays in peak operating condition from regular inspections and tune ups.

Minor defects are caught early and addressed leaving homeowners with fewer repairs and less likelihood for a breakdown when temperatures are extreme. How will you know there is a problem that requires a service call? Let’s look at a few warning signs.

Signs You Need an HVAC Repair

Your Newport News HVAC system is supposed to keep your home comfortable throughout the year. Preventive inspections and maintenance help to ensure the system operates efficiently and keeps the house climate controlled. However, even a dependable system can develop issues occasionally.

The objective is to trouble shoot for a quick DIY fix or to have them professionally addressed sooner rather than later to reduce the likelihood for expensive repairs or the potential for a full replacement. Visit 12 HVAC Maintenance Tips Every Homeowner Should Know – BUILD Magazine – for HVAC maintenance tips every homeowner should know. Here are signs you need repairs.

Spikes in utility costs

A spike in utility costs without increases usage is a sign that the system has become less efficient. This can be due to the equipment again, dirty coils, holes in the ducts, all of which makes the HVAC exert more energy to try to achieve the desired temperature.

Higher utility costs are a first sign your equipment needs inspected and possibly repaired or replaced for a more efficient system. When your costs go up, it’s important to question the increases particularly if you haven’t changed the way you’re using the system.

Unusual sounds

When you’re in tune with your system, you should become accustomed to what t sounds like when it runs. Typically, they don’t make too much noise when they operate. But when you start hearing unusual banging noises, loud and annoying sounds could mean faulty or broken parts, a failing motor, or deteriorate belts.

Neglecting these sounds can lead to worsening damage making it necessary to reach out to a professional heating and cooling technician for an inspection at the first sign.

Foul odors

In that same vein, you shouldn’t experience foul odors coming from your HVAC unit. When unpleasant or stale smells come from the equipment it’s time to have it check since it could be mold developing in the ductwork or the heating and cooling unit.

Smoky odors can be a sign of an electrical concern or overworking parts. These odors can pose health risks and make the home environment unclean. A certified HVAC contractor can diagnose the underlying issue and resolve the problem, getting the system back to its normal function.

Poor airflow

When the airflow from the vents is inconsistent, a few common issues can be the cause. Sometimes the air filter is clogged and may need changing. A portion of the ductwork could be loose or the circulation motor could be malfunctioning.

Poor airflow can lead to an uncomfortable household but it also forces the system to operate less efficiently leading to higher utility cost and extra wear.

Repair bills

If major repair bills are becoming more frequent, a replacement can be more cost-efficient than continuing to sink money into a less efficient system. Perhaps the equipment is reaching the end of its life. HVAC units last roughly 10 to 15 years with the components working harder after roughly 10 years.

A quality and qualified HVAC technician will inspect your existing equipment and household to recommend whether you should continue with repairs or consider a new unit.

The professional will then guide you toward the most efficient moder heating and cooling system for your property. Read here for HVAC system lifespan.

Final Thought

When you develop a relationship with a professional heating and cooling contractor in Newport News, VA, the expert will inform and educate you on how your model work, the cohesive flow of the components functioning together to make the system operate seamlessly.

Being attuned to the normal function of the system will alert you to irregularities as they arise so you can troubleshoot problems and either make simple DIY fixes or reach out for a certified contractor to make complex repairs.

In that same vein, you want to be proactive with preventive inspections and routine maintenance to ensure the system stays in peak condition throughout the year. With standard care and upkeep, technicians detect developing issues early and address them before they turn into major problems that can disrupt service.