Problems With Your AC Unit? Here’s When To Call HVAC Repair

Not every rattle or hiss is a problem, but knowing when to call a HVAC repair technician for more severe issues is essential. If you don’t keep up with HVAC repairs, you could end up with a broken unit or more costly repairs. 

If you notice warning signs, such as warm air blowing through the vents, burning smells, or strange noises coming from your HVAC system, it’s time to check out the problem. Luckily, our guide will show you when to call for HVAC repair.

Common Signs You Need to Call HVAC Repair

While performing your annual HVAC maintenance checklist, you might notice some parts of your system are malfunctioning. Sometimes, it’s an easy fix, such as changing your filters and ensuring your thermostat works correctly. However, there are times when the issues require an HVAC professional. Here are some common signs that you need to hire professional HVAC repair:

Your AC is Blowing Hot Air

If all parts of your HVAC system work correctly, you should get consistent, cool air blowing through your vents during the warm months. However, if hot air blows or very little cool air comes from your vents, you need to call an HVAC repair pro. The problem might be an AC freon leak, which is when your AC’s refrigerant runs too low, causing your home’s cooling capacity to dwindle.

There’s Water Around the AC Unit

Seeing a water pool around your AC unit clearly indicates something is wrong. The problem could be that your AC overflow pan is leaking or there may be a clogged condensate line. If your condensate line is clogged, it can cause your AC unit to freeze over due to trapped water inside the unit. 

There’s a Spike in Your Electricity Bill

When your AC unit isn’t functioning properly, it uses more energy and takes longer to cool your home. Since your AC unit is working harder to deliver cool air, you’ll notice an increase in your electricity bill. At this point, you’ll want to bring in a pro to perform an HVAC inspection. You’ll pay between $150 and $500, but you’ll also figure out what’s causing your higher electric bills. Ultimately, you’ll go on to save energy costs in the future. 

Bad Smells From the Vents or HVAC Unit

Foul odors are a sure sign of an issue with your HVAC system. First, if you smell anything burning, it could be that the wires inside of the HVAC are burning. In that case, turn off the unit and call an HVAC professional immediately. 

Next, and more commonly, you’ll likely smell a musty odor. If bacteria grow inside your HVAC unit, it can produce mold and mildew inside your ducts, leading to a stale smell from your vents. You’ll likely need a proper air duct cleaning, and you can expect to pay $270 to $500 for this service. 

Loud Noises From the HVAC Unit

If your HVAC unit is making any banging, buzzing, hissing, or rattling noises, it’s probably time to call HVAC repair. These noises usually indicate:

• Hissing noises: Indicates leaking ducts or an improperly fitted filter

• Clanging noises: Indicates loose parts inside the HVAC unit

• Rattling noises: Indicates leaves and twigs stuck inside the unit

Whether or not these noises indicate a larger problem, it’s best to bring in a pro to identify and fix the issue. 

Uneven Room Temperatures

If your home’s cooling is inconsistent in each room, you probably need to call for HVAC repair. The problem could be as small as a filter change or that furniture is blocking the vents. However, it could also be a sign of more significant issues. There may have been improper installation of the HVAC or ductwork, leaks in the air ducts, or a lot of trapped dirt and debris clogging the ducts. In addition to calling an HVAC pro, you can also check your homeowner's warranty for any coverage or discounts on HVAC repairs and replacements. 

HVAC Motor Stops Working

When the motor in your HVAC stops working, you might mistakenly believe that the unit has died. However, there are several reasons why the motor stopped working, including:

• Ice formed on your evaporator coils

• Breaker or fuse got too hot

• Not enough airflow 

• Too much grime, dirt, and debris buildup

Whatever the cause, if your motor stops running, it’s time to call HVAC repair.

How To Conduct an HVAC Check 

There are two ways to perform a proper HVAC check. First, you can follow a seasonal HVAC maintenance schedule to ensure your unit keeps you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. If you break up the maintenance tasks seasonally, tackling them will be much easier. You’ll also have a better idea of when to call HVAC repair to address serious issues. 

Otherwise, you can hire a pro to perform an HVAC inspection, which includes a complete evaluation of your thermostat, coolant levels, electrical systems, evaporator coils, pressure checks, and an overall examination of your HVAC’s internal operations. You’ll pay an average of $300, but you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your system is operating at total capacity. 

How to Find an HVAC Repair Professional

We recommend hiring a licensed AC repair company near you when you need to call for HVAC repair. The average cost of an AC repair is $350. Since it can be dangerous for homeowners to perform deep internal inspections of their HVAC unit, it’s well worth calling a professional to diagnose and fix your HVAC problems.