Three Signs That Your Furnace Or A/C Needs A Repair

If you rely on your furnace or air conditioner 12 months out of the year to keep your home comfortable, it's important to do everything you can to minimize the risk of a breakdown. Having each system inspected and serviced once per year -- generally shortly before you expect you'll be running it regularly -- can catch small problems before they come large. In addition to this regular maintenance, it's also useful for you to be aware of the signs that your furnace and air conditioner can exhibit to indicate problems. Upon noticing any of the three following issues, it's ideal to turn off the respective system and schedule a visit from your local HVAC contractor as soon as you can.

Bizarre Smells

When you turn on either your furnace or your air conditioner, you might occasionally smell a faint musty odor. This smell isn't overly concerning, but it is a sign that you'll likely need to change the filter -- and arrange for an HVAC contractor to inspect the system and make sure that everything is clean. There are, however, odors that are more serious. A burning electric smell, for example, can indicate the failing of any of the furnace or air conditioner's electrical components or a problem with the fan's motor. In either case, your HVAC professional will be able to perform the necessary repair or replacement job to ensure that the smell doesn't happen again.

Loud Operation

It's common to hear a humming sound when your furnace or your air conditioner is in use. However, if you hear other loud noises during the operation of either system, it's a sign that you should call your contractor right away. Banging, squealing and other noises can suggest problems with the motor, drive belt or virtually any part that may have come loose due to vibration and is rattling when it shouldn't. You contractor will quickly assess the reason for the noise and take the needed steps to silence it.

Air Flow Issues

If it's become apparent that your furnace or your air conditioner isn't producing the airflow that you're accustomed to, the cause could be minor or major. Ideally, it's something as simple as floor vents that need cleaning. However, there's also a chance that there's a hole in the ducts near the system or a failure of the fan. Whatever the case, your HVAC contractor will be able to figure out the problem and get it repaired quickly.

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