Don't Be Fooled By Your HVAC System

Your home is comfortable most of the time so that means you and your HVAC system are doing just fine, right? Maybe your system is trying to tell you something, but you’re misreading the signs. Don’t misjudge the situation. Find out whether the little things your HVAC system is trying to tell you are minor, major, or no problem at all.

Don’t let these normal HVAC sounds scare you:

• A quiet hum

  Your HVAC system is happy. A steady hum from your indoor or outdoor system indicates proper function.

• Buzzing

  A slight buzzing from your outdoor unit is normal, even if it is not running.

• Squeals

  Brief squeals of excitement during startup are normal. Your compressor may make high-pitched noises during operation as well.

• Whooshing

  This is simply a sign of air moving properly through ductwork and venting.

• Brief noises at startup and shutdown

  Older systems sometimes need a little TLC. Brief squeals and thumps at startup and shutdown aren’t anything to worry about, but do indicate loose belts or dirty fan rotors in need of a professional tune-up.

Don’t kick yourself for missing these cheap, easy fixes:

• Not as comfortable?

  Your filter probably looks like a giant dust bunny. It should be replaced every 30-90 days. Also check for obstructions to air returns and vents.

• Slightly higher bills?

  Have you been neglecting your system of a professional cleaning “to save money?” Coils should be cleaned once or twice a year to prevent the heavy price of inefficient operation.

• Air not as cold?

  You might need a refrigerant recharge.

• System turning off too soon or too late?

  Your thermostat may be living in the wrong neighborhood. Improper placement in direct sun, near hot appliances, or too close to registers are common culprits.

Don’t overlook these signs that your HVAC system may not be in it for the long haul:

• You’ve seen dinosaurs that look younger.

  HVAC systems more than 10 years old are at the end of their life. Being proactive about replacement will save you time, money and inconvenient repairs from your old system going down when you need it most.

• It needs a lot more attention than it used to.

  Frequent repairs almost always indicate a system with one foot out the door. If your repair costs add up to half the value of the system, it is generally time for a replacement.

• It makes you feel highly uncomfortable.

  If your system is making you sweat from the excess humidity in your home, you may need to consider a replacement before you’re looking at contending with mold and mildew related issues as well.

• Something smells funny.

  Unusual odors, such as burning smells emanating from ductwork, are always a cause for concern.

• Your system sounds rattled.

  Just like a good argument, the louder it’s complaining, the more serious the situation is. Turn off your system immediately. Loud noises could be loose hardware, a failing motor or a dying compressor pointing you in the direction of a new system.

• Electric bills are burning a hole in your wallet.

  Old, inefficient HVAC systems can really put a strain on your budget. Replacing old, inefficient systems could save you 20-40 percent on your energy bills, or more if your system is over 10 years old.

Worrying about your HVAC system keeping you up at night?

Avoiding the issue won’t make it go away. Stop the stress by finding out where your system really stands with the help of a professional checkup from Aire Serv® today.