Here in Cumming, GA, the weather can get extreme. One day it’s stifling hot, and the next, it’s suddenly cold enough to grab a sweater. It’s quite typical to depend upon your HVAC system all year long. But when that system quietly begins draining your wallet, it can become annoying for pretty much anyone.
At first, you might not even see anything. A little noise? No big deal. A slightly higher bill? Perhaps you simply forgot to turn off the lights. But then, over time, those small signs add up, and the next thing you know, your HVAC system might be hoarding all your money. The good news is that identifying the red flags early can save you plenty of hassle and money.
Here’s what you need to watch out for.
Your Energy Bill Is Increasing
Let’s begin with the most glaring red flag: your energy bill.
If your monthly bill is going up and your habits haven’t changed, there might be a sneaky culprit: your HVAC system. An inefficient unit is going to work hard and still maintain the same temperatures. This requires more energy and costs more money.
So, if your wallet is feeling is a little lighter and you don’t know why, do not dismiss this sign. Get it checked immediately.
The AC Doesn’t Cool Anymore
It’s extremely annoying when the air conditioner starts running, but your house still feels like a sauna. That’s not normal.
Possible reasons include:
- Low refrigerant levels
- A failing compressor
- Dirty coils
Either of these can force your system to work harder, gorging on energy and leading to a spike in your energy bill. Call a professional who offers air conditioning repair in Cumming, GA sooner than later. You will save yourself money, sweat, and a lot of headaches.
The Temperature Is Hot In Some Rooms and Cold in Others
Moving from one room to the other and thinking that you’ve passed into a different climate zone? Yes, that could be an HVAC-related problem.
Your furnace and air conditioning system should maintain an even temperature throughout your house. If they can’t:
- Your ductwork might be leaky
- Insulation could be poor
- Your thermostat might be off
The longer you wait, the more you spend trying to chase the uneven temperatures with portable heaters or fans.
Your HVAC Runs Consistently Without a Break
You know what you don’t need? An HVAC system that blasts from morning to night. It’s built to run, cool, or heat, and then shut down.
If it never appears to be quiet, something might be wrong. The following could be causing an issue:
- Dirty coils
- Clogged filters
- An under- or oversized unit for your home
The longer your system runs, the sooner it’ll wear out. It’s a vicious and costly cycle.
You Hear Odd Noises Coming from the Unit
Yes, HVAC systems will create some noise. But if you hear rattling, banging, buzzing, or whistling sounds, that’s your system begging for mercy.
Unusual sounds could mean parts that are:
- Loose
- Worn out
- Out of place
When it comes to odd noises, never dismiss them. You’ll either correct it now for a little or fix it later for a lot of money.
Filters Get Dirty Fast
Like vacuuming your floors, replacing your HVAC air filters is part of scheduled maintenance. But if you’re having to switch yours much faster, something is off.
Dirty filters mean:
- Restricted airflow
- A system that’s working way, way harder than it should
- A spike in your energy bills
- Poor indoor air quality may be making your system work harder.
If you’re changing filters several times a month, it’s definitely time for a professional to come check it out.
Your System Is Old(and Tired)
Let’s face it. Nothing is forever — not even your trusty HVAC system.
The average unit will provide service for 10 to 15 years. If yours is older, even if it’s “working fine,” it’s almost certainly using more energy than a newer, more efficient one would.
Signs of an aging system:
- More frequent repairs
- Loud operation
- An observable delay in cooling or heating
It may sound expensive up front, but new systems are designed to be far more energy efficient. Over time, they pay for themselves.
The Airflow Is Weak
If the air coming out of your vents feels weak or is barely there, that’s a problem.
Airflow weakness can be the result of:
- A failing fan motor
- Blocked ducts
- Dirty filters
The lower the airflow, the longer your system must operate to achieve the target temperature. Yes, you already know what that means — a higher energy bill and an uncomfortable space that will lead to sleepless nights.
Your HVAC system does a lot for your comfort. But if you’re detecting any of these signs, don’t dismiss them. Minor problems snowball toward large (and costly) repairs in no time.
So, what should you do?
- Schedule regular inspections
- Replace filters from time to time
- Bring in an HVAC professional at the first sign of trouble
And a little work now can save you a mountain of repair bills in the long run. And if we’re going to be honest, returning home after a long day at work to a perfectly cooled or heated dwelling is worth every penny. See more information.