Signs Your HVAC Needs Repair

It’s crucial that your HVAC system makes sure your home is cozy, manages the humidity and enhances indoor air quality. But like any equipment, it may show signs of trouble when it’s starting to fail. Ignoring these signs can lead to an emergency breakdown at the worst possible time, requiring costly repairs. To prevent being taken by surprise, reach out to a technician from Mark Allen for consultation if you notice any of these signs your HVAC system needs attention.

Your HVAC System Isn’t Heating or Cooling the Air

If your HVAC system fails to generate warm air in the winter or cool air in the summer, there’s a good chance it’s having issues. Warm air from an air conditioner could be a sign there is insufficient coolant, a obstructed condenser unit or a compressor malfunction. Meanwhile, cool air from your furnace might suggest issues with the ignition system, the unit doesn’t have enough fuel or a faulty blower motor.

The Furnace or AC Doesn’t Run Consistently

Does your heating or air frequently power up and shut down before running through a complete cycle? Referred to as short cycling, this problem can overwork your system and lower efficiency. Sometimes, a faulty thermostat will improperly gauge the room temperature and cause the HVAC system starting and stopping unnecessarily. A blocked air filter also may be another cause, because this can restrict airflow and trigger a system stoppage to prevent damage.

Odd Noises Coming from Your HVAC

An HVAC system generates some noise while it’s operating, but any sounds you don’t recognize are usually a cause for concern. Rattling noises might mean parts have become detached, while loud thumps can indicate a broken or detached component. Buzzing or grinding noises might signify motor issues, especially if parts are breaking or no longer working properly. Odd noises almost never fix themselves, so a repair is essential before things escalate into bigger problems.

Nasty Smells Coming from Your Heating or Cooling System

It’s troubling when your HVAC system emits a bad smell, but it also may be dangerous. A moldy odor may suggest mold is flourishing within the ducts or the unit itself. The smell of something burning could point to a serious issue like an overheated motor. And a sulfuric odor is the most alarming because it can indicate a gas leak. In this case, turn off your HVAC system, go outside and get into the fresh air. Once you’re outside and safe, call the fire department for assistance.

Your Home Heating or Cooling Bills Skyrocket

If your electricity or gas bill suddenly spikes but you haven’t changed your usage habits, your HVAC system may be working overtime to keep your home comfortable. This typically takes place as parts deteriorate and the system can’t operate as efficiently. You can mitigate this issue by maintaining your system regularly with checkups.

Your Home Is Too Humid

An HVAC system that works like it should will control indoor humidity alongside controlling the temperature. If your home seems excessively moist or you observe condensation on the windows, your system might not be dehumidifying your property properly. Excessive moisture in the air can feel uncomfortable, encourage mold growth, distort wood furnishings and even harm electronics. Common causes include restricted air movement, clogged cooling components or an improperly sized HVAC system.

Leaks or Water Around Your HVAC Unit

Discovering a puddle around your HVAC unit is a warning you could have leaking cooling fluid or a blocked drain line. A refrigerant leak decreases cooling power and may cause the evaporator coil to freeze up, which creates moisture buildup when the ice thaws. Similarly, a stopped up drain line results in water damage if not promptly fixed.

How to Know When You Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If you suggest that your HVAC system needs some TLC, but how can you tell whether a repair or replacement is best? Here are some factors to help you make a choice as to what’s best for your home:

• Your HVAC equipment is getting older: Most HVAC systems function for approximately 10 to 15 years with routine upkeep. If your unit is nearing or has passed this age, it might be running on borrowed time. Older systems are less efficient and more expensive to repair due to obsolete parts, so contemplate upgrading to a up-to-date, energy-efficient model to reduce utility bills and pay for fewer future repairs.

• The HVAC system in your home repeatedly fails: If you’re frequently arranging heating or air repair, the costs can add up quickly. Eventually, you’ll need to quit wasting funds on an unreliable system and replace your finicky system with a new, energy-efficient one.

• Repair costs are mounting: If a single repair costs more than half the price of a new unit, HVAC installation is generally the smarter investment, especially if the system is several years old.

• Your heating and cooling system struggles to maintain your comfort: A system that has always struggled to keep your home comfortable may be undersized, excessive or poorly designed. A carefully selected new HVAC unit delivers better climate control and improves indoor air quality.

Contact Mark Allen for Expert Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing in

The team at Mark Allen is focused on ensuring comfort with every visit. Our certified, skilled HVAC technicians ensure reliable solutions protected by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not totally happy with our service, we’ll work to resolve the problem.

 Call 412-484-3317 today to book your next HVAC repair or replacement in with Mark Allen!