4 Signs That Your HVAC System Could Use Some Maintenance

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Your HVAC system is most likely the single biggest energy consumer in your home, and even minor problems with your heater or air conditioner could end up costing you quite a bit of money. That is why all homeowners should be able to identify some of the early warning signs that it might be time to schedule a service call. Here is a closer look at four unusual heating and cooling issues that you should never ignore.

Temperature Fluctuations

A well-serviced HVAC system should be able to keep your entire home at a relatively consistent temperature. Even if the weather is extreme, you shouldn’t notice any major differences as you walk between rooms. These issues often take place when an older heater or air conditioner can no longer send enough air through the ducts. Before calling a contractor, you should first make sure that all of the vents throughout your home are open.

Unusual Energy Bills

Homeowners should never ignore unusual spikes in their energy bills. While your bills will naturally change between seasons, they shouldn’t fluctuate dramatically. As a general rule, you should keep your energy bills for at least two or three years in order to compare them with one another. The bills shouldn’t change by more than a few percent unless you have more people living in your home or have new electronics that are using up energy.

A Decline in Air Quality

Your home’s indoor air quality has a major impact on your family’s health and comfort. If you have begun to notice any unusual respiratory problems such as continuous coughing or wheezing, then you should immediately contact an HVAC company, like HELP Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric, to have the system inspected. Issues such as mold and mildew in the ducts can wreak havoc on your health, and taking care of those problems without professional equipment will be nearly impossible.

Leaks

Your outdoor condenser will produce some moisture whenever the system is on, but there should never be any major leaks or puddles. At least once every few weeks, homeowners need to check their outdoor units for any signs of leaks. Those who notice a leak must immediately turn the system off and contact a repairman. These leaks are especially hazardous if any coolant or oil is coming out of the condenser.

Even if your HVAC system seems to be running smoothly, you should still consider having it serviced at least twice a year to prevent major problems. During these service calls, a technician can take care of simple maintenance tasks such as checking the gauges, cleaning off the condenser fins, adding oil, and testing the thermostat.