Homeowners often don’t realize when their HVAC unit needs to be serviced and end up waiting until it completely breaks down. Not only does this mean going without air conditioning for days, but also having to pay a much higher repair bill than if they had just kept up with regular maintenance. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of seven common warning signs that indicate it’s time for HVAC repairs.

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1. You May Need a New Unit if Yours is Constantly Running but Not Cooling or Heating Efficiently

If your HVAC system is constantly running but not cooling or heating your home effectively, it may be faulty. It may not need an emergency repair, but you should schedule an annual maintenance appointment to prevent more serious problems in the future. Often, thermostat issues are to blame for systems that cycle often.

2. If you hear rattling or grinding when the system turns on, that’s not a good sign.

If your HVAC system makes a rattling or grinding noise when it turns on, and the sound is coming from inside the unit rather than outside, you should schedule maintenance right away. It might be something as easy to fix as debris in the AC line. A maintenance visit can also help avoid bigger issues down the road.

3. The Air Ducts Near Your Home May Be Dirty

If you see dirt and dust near your home’s air ducts, this could mean they’re clogged. You should hire an air conditioning contractor to inspect them and clean out any particles that may cause serious issues for your unit in the future. Cleaning them yourself could lead to larger problems if not done properly.

4. Unpleasant Odors Coming from Your Unit

If you notice a foul smell near your air conditioning unit, that is usually a telltale sign that there may be an issue. This could be due to the presence of mold, dirt, and bacteria. In such cases, it is always best to contact an experienced air conditioning company for inspection and assessment as soon as possible. If left unaddressed, these unhealthy particles could cause serious health problems down the road.

5. If you notice any water leaks or puddles around your AC unit, this could be a sign of a more serious issue.

HVAC leaks often present other problems, such as loose connections or faulty seals. If left unrepaired, severe damage could result in your home; therefore, it is essential to schedule an inspection immediately.  Should water pool around your unit on a regular basis or appear at its base, you may need to replace the air conditioning unit entirely.

6. An Altered Airflow

A sudden change in your system’s airflow is a cause for alarm. This usually suggests that something is wrong with your HVAC, such as a clogged line. Unless you are qualified to do so, don’t try to fix the problem yourself — this requires the expertise of a professional.

7. The Importance of Indoor Humidity

If you notice your indoor humidity levels increase, this is definitely a red flag that something is wrong with your HVAC system. It doesn’t matter what season it is, increased humidity Levels indoors can always be attributed to a failing or weakened HVAC unit. Muggy air isn’t only uncomfortable to deal with on a daily basis, but it’s also not good for your health! Make sure to schedule an inspection for your HVAC system as soon as possible.

Get your HVAC unit repaired by professionals.

If you want to save money and keep your home in tip-top shape, it’s best to hire an HVAC technician at the first sign of trouble. Recognizing the signs of a faulty HVAC unit is one thing, but knowing how to identify and fix the issue is best left up to the professionals. Ignoring potential problems with your HVAC system could lead to serious consequences for your home down the road that could end up costing more than just an annual inspection or tune-up appointment.