Are you concerned that your HVAC system is in need of repair? Sometimes it is difficult to say for sure, and nobody loves the idea of paying for a service call only to be told everything is just fine! With that in mind, let's take a look at some of the most common signs that it is time to book some HVAC maintenance.

1 - An Unexpected Increase in Energy Bills

Everything is getting steadily more expensive at the moment, so it is natural for your energy bills to increase a little. However, if you are seeing an unexplained spike, then it could be an indication that you are in need of HVAC maintenance. The average household is estimated to spend 54% of its energy bills on heating and cooling. There are a number of reasons why this can happen, but in general terms, if any part of the HVAC system is not working correctly, it can put an additional strain on the system, making it work harder than necessary, thus consuming more energy. Common culprits are things like dirty air filters, broken components, and blocked ducts.

2 - Your Thermostat Needs Constant Adjustment

When your HVAC system is working correctly, you should be able to set your thermostat to the desired temperature and forget about it. If you are finding that you have to constantly tweak the thermostat to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, it is a clear sign that some HVAC maintenance may be required. Similarly, if you find the system is slow to heat or cool your home to the desired temperature, that can also be a sign that the HVAC system is in need of some attention.

3 - Unpleasant Smells & Strange Noises

Your HVAC system should not emit any unpleasant odors. If it is working efficiently, it should remove them to improve the indoor air quality of your home! If you start to smell chemical scents, mold, mildew, or burning smells from your system, it is a sure sign that something is going on, and HVAC maintenance should be a priority. It is worth noting that when you turn on your heating for the first time in the Fall or Winter, it is normal to smell a faint burning smell due to an accumulation of dust on the unused heating element. However, this should be brief, so if it persists, you know it is time to book a service call. Strange noise can also be a cause for concern. Your HVAC system will never be completely silent; it is, after all, mechanical equipment. However, it should not be loud enough to cause a disturbance. Buzzing, clicking, clanging, grinding, hissing, and gurgling are all sounds that could indicate a leak or malfunction somewhere in the system.

4 - Reduced or Inconsistent Airflow

Your HVAC should give a constant flow of air, so if you experience reduced airflow or you notice sudden gusts of air, you likely need HVAC maintenance. Some common reasons for this can include a clogged filter, leaky ductwork, or an obstructed condenser. Cleaning the air filters and ducts can be relatively inexpensive and could resolve the issues of inconsistent airflow. However, if the problem is more complex, such as a condenser obstruction or a leak, you could be looking at more extensive repairs. That's why it is important to book a service call as soon as you notice this type of behavior, as the sooner it is addressed, the less damage is likely.

5 - Your HVAC Unit is Old

Sometimes when your HVAC system is getting on in years, there isn't one specific thing that is making it less efficient and less effective than it was in its heyday. Sometimes, it is just old age! There comes a time when the cost of constant HVAC maintenance to keep your system up and running outweighs the cost of replacing it. As a rule of thumb, if a single repair costs 50% of the price of a new unit, it is time to bite the bullet and upgrade your HVAC system. The expected lifespan of a residential HVAC system is between 15-25 years, depending on how well it has been maintained throughout its life.

Don't overlook HVAC maintenance! Regularly cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting components can keep your system running smoothly and improve energy efficiency. At the first signs of any of the issues we have discussed above, you should reach out to your local HVAC maintenance company in Knoxville to schedule a service call.

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Gent Heating and Cooling provide heating and air conditioning for residential and commercial clients in Knoxville, Knox County, and the surrounding East Tennessee area. Over 20 Years experience. Customer Service is Our Top Priority. We strive to be on time, provide accurate estimates, and have most replacement products on our service vehicles.

Call 865-213-9202 or email office@genthvac.com

www.gentheatandcool.com