Curious about when it’s time to clean an HVAC system? Like any residential appliance – heating, ventilation and air conditioning units need to be regularly maintained to ensure optimal performance.
Generally speaking, HVAC systems need maintenance every one to two years. Below are common signs and symptoms that maintenance is needed with heating and cooling systems.
What are Signs of Needed HVAC Service?
Below are some of the most common causes for repair and service calls for HVAC issues.
- Old HVAC System
- Increase in Energy Bills
- Funky Smells
- Accumulation of Dust & Debris
- Respiratory Illness
- Strange Sounds
- Variable Temperatures
HVAC System is 15 Years or Older
If the heating or AC equipment in your residence is older than fifteen years it is important to consider the benefits of a tune up.
Old HVAC systems deteriorate and many need regular maintenance or replacement of components to improve the system. Eventually, old HVAC systems will fail if not properly inspected and assessed by a technician.
Due to the large variance in temperature, homeowners in Nashville ask a lot out of HVAC systems. As HVAC systems age, scheduled maintenance is imperative to extending the life of heating and air conditioning units. New HVAC equipment that is Energy Star certified, can optimize efficiencies and save property owners between 10-30% on energy bills.
More Expensive Energy Bills
Experiencing an inexplicable spike in energy bills? Increases in energy costs are common indicators that an HVAC system is in need of cleaning and maintenance service.
Compare and contrast the Nashville Electric Service bill to the same time last year. If your residential property is consuming more kilowatts per hour than the same month in years past, contact an HVAC technician to assess the system.
What Causes HVAC Systems to Smell?
Strange smells and odors that permeate from an HVAC system, vents or any of the components, are common symptoms of larger HVAC issues.
Funky Smells & HVAC Systems
There are a number of culprits that can and do contribute to foul smells in HVAC systems. Some of these causes include:
Mildew
The most common cause of unpleasant indoor smells in HVAC systems result from mildew. Due to the humidity of a system or intrusion. Mildew can flourish and cause funky smells and odors to permeate throughout a residential property.
Mildew can cause mold and lead to larger issues. When mildew has built up, an experienced HVAC technician can help trouble shoot and resolve the issue.
Dirty Filter
Filters are designed to capture contaminants, particles, debris and dust. When filters need replacement, the filters can smell from the musty makeup on the filter. Over time, contaminants can build up and grow spores and bacteria.
Condensate Lines
Clogged lines cause water to back up and can result in mold accumulation and mildew. Whenever water is involved, a musty and funky smell can circulate throughout a property emanating from the condensate lines.
Invasive Species
Invasive vermin can enter vents and nest in ducts. When this occurs, unpleasant smells can permeate through a space. Banging and rattling around the home are common interactions with HVAC systems as the vermin move across the system.
Accumulation of Dust & Debris
Dust and debris frequently circulates around any building with central heating or cooling. The amount of dust and debris increases with dirty air filters in need of maintenance.
Adverse health reactions are common to individuals susceptible to respiratory illnesses. Those with weakened respiratory systems can get sick and show symptoms of illness from the accumulation of dust and debris in an HVAC system.
Respiratory Illness & Issues
Respiratory illness and circulatory issues can be symptomatic of dirty HVAC systems. Airborne contaminants negatively impact the respiratory system and can cause breathing issues.
When individuals experience otherwise inexplicable breathing issues, it is important to consider the last time an HVAC system was maintained. In the event that a property owner cannot remember, it is time to contact an experienced HVAC technician.
Strange Sounds During Operation
Loud unexpected noises are indicative of loose connections, faulty equipment or possible vermin in an HVAC system.
When strange sounds emanate from an HVAC system, contact an HVAC technician to inspect the connections and systems. It may be as simple as a loose connection but can be serious and require additional maintenance.
Variable Temperatures
Do temperatures fluctuate greatly from one room to another?Temperatures differing greatly in the same room? This temperature variance can be caused by HVAC inefficiencies.
Variable temperatures are caused by a few different issues. From vent blockage, to air filters, to aging equipment – it is important to contact an expert to perform an inspection and assess the cause of the variable temperatures.