A complete HVAC breakdown is a frustrating experience. What's worse, it tends to happen when the weather is extreme. Fortunately, you can tell when you have an HVAC unit that's working inefficiently and make the necessary fixes before an expensive breakdown occurs. Be on the lookout for the following signs.
Low Airflow
Insufficient airflow indicates that your HVAC system isn't working properly or that there's a blockage preventing air from flowing through your ductwork. Clogged air filters are a common culprit. If the airflow problem persists after you've changed your filter, you may have a broken motor or a more serious problem.
Ineffective Cooling
If you're not getting cool air from your AC vents in the summer, you should check your thermostat. Confirm if you switched it to cooling mode. Try setting the temperature lower than the level your home is currently at. If the air blowing from the vents still isn't cool, a compressor problem or limited airflow could be responsible.
Frequent Cycling
Is your system constantly cycling on and off? Having a professional perform a quick tuneup could rectify the issue. Frequent cycles could also signal your HVAC system is on its last legs.
Leaks
If there seems to be water leaking around your AC unit, that's a clear sign of your system not working correctly. It could be leaking refrigerant or the condensation that's produced during normal operation.
Strange Sounds
It's normal for your HVAC system to produce a low-level sound when it's starting up and shutting down. Unusual sounds — such as whistling, grinding, buzzing, and rattling — during operation can be indicators of a problem with one or more system components.
Unpleasant Smells
Foul odors from your HVAC system could be a sign of mold growth inside your ducts or your unit, or an indicator of burned-out wiring.
The sooner you have repairs performed after discovering any of the signs above, the more money you'll save by avoiding bigger repairs and having to make a complete system replacement. Your HVAC system is complex, so it's best to leave repairs to professionals. If you need to get your HVAC working at peak performance and efficiency in the Broken Arrow area, contact the heating and cooling professionals at Air Assurance.