There’s no consistent home comfort without a working HVAC system. Ignoring the warning signs that your system needs repair is often too high a gamble, leading to more expensive repairs or a full system breakdown. Learn how to recognize when you need to call for emergency HVAC repair and protect your family’s health and well-being.
What Are the Most Common Signs of a Broken HVAC Unit?
You likely have something wrong with your HVAC if it does one of two things:
- Has a sudden and inexplicable drop in performance
- Starts showing unusual behavior
There are many ways these issues can show up, but you’ll notice a drop in performance both when the system is running and when reviewing your energy bills. Maybe it’s blowing warm air when it’s set to cool, or it’s constantly cycling on and off. These problems lead to a lack of efficiency and a less comfortable home.
These are clear signs that you need AC repair. Whether it’s an emergency depends on how well your unit still works, but remember that leaving these problems alone eventually leads to emergency HVAC repairs.
Unusual behavior is sometimes easier to pin down, mostly because it makes itself apparent to you through sounds or smells. Broken ACs might squeak or squeal when you turn them on. They might also have a musty or burning smell. A light burning smell for a few minutes after you turn the system on can be normal, especially if it’s the first time using the unit after a while. This is often just the dust burning off the furnace.
But in general, strange behavior like this is almost always grounds for at least considering emergency HVAC repair. It’s safest to turn your system off until a professional can check out the situation.
When Should I Call an AC Repair Company?
A burning smell is the most dangerous, as this could indicate a problem with your electrical wiring. That’s a serious safety risk, and you should have someone look at your unit as soon as possible. Hissing sounds aren’t great either — they most likely point to a refrigerant leak. You should turn off your AC and call your local AC repair company the moment you notice either of these two things.
However, it’s always better to be safe than sorry with your HVAC system. There’s no harm in calling a professional for an inspection or maintenance visit if you suspect there’s an issue with your HVAC.
Even if there isn’t a glaring problem, the cleaning and optimization services a technician provides are excellent protection against needing an emergency air conditioner repair. A proactive approach to HVAC care is always preferable to having to call someone to save you in the middle of a heat wave or cold snap.
Contact Covenant Air Conditioning Today for Fast Emergency AC Services
If your system is damaged to the point of impacting your safety or comfort, we’re here to help. Reach out to the team at Covenant Air Conditioning today to schedule your emergency HVAC repair with one of our HVAC technicians.