Whether it is the middle of a freezing winter or the doldrums of a heatwave, the last thing you want is for your HVAC system to fail and make your family uncomfortable. While a failing HVAC system does not always mean that you need a completely new system, it is a cause for concern and usually means it is time to call the heating and cooling St Louis experts.
Here is more information on recognizing an HVAC like those at Anton’s Air Conditioning and Heating failure and steps to take to keep your family safe and comfortable.
Signs Of A System Failure
It is important to recognize the signs of a system failure so you can take the proper steps as soon as possible. Signs include:
- A strange smell, usually one that is moldy, musty, or like something is burning.
- Sudden inconsistent temperatures throughout the home.
- An unexplained jump in energy bills.
- Airflow that is weak.
- A system that frequently cycles on and off.
- Loud noises such as hissing, grinding, or rattling.
Steps You Can Immediately Take
If you notice any of the above, there are a few steps you should take to address safety concerns. They are:
- Shut the system off. While this may seem counterintuitive since your home will start to get either hotter or colder depending on the season, it’s necessary to prevent any health or safety hazards a failing system can pose to you and your family.
- Check your circuit breakers. It is possible that the system’s problems are due to a tripped circuit. If this is the case, reset your breaker and then see if your system works as normal when you turn it back on. If turning your system on trips the circuit again, it is likely time to call an electrician.
- Look at your air filters. Sometimes, fixing HVAC issues is as simple as replacing dirty or clogged air filters. Replacing your filters regularly ensures strong airflow as well as good air quality.
When To Call Professional Heating And Cooling St. Louis
If none of the previous tips restore your system to its normal working condition, it is time to call a heating and cooling St. Louis professional. You may be wondering if you can wait until the next day (or longer) to get a professional to look at your system or if you need to request emergency services. Keep in mind that emergency services—meaning a professional will make it a priority to visit your home within the next few hours regardless of whether it is a night or weekend—comes at a higher cost than normal HVAC services.
It is time to request emergency services if you believe you or your family are in any danger from a failing system. It is also a good idea to get emergency services if you believe your home’s integrity is compromised and waiting a day or two will cause damage.
When you call a professional heating and cooling St. Louis professional, the team can help you decide if your problems constitute an emergency or if you can wait for normal HVAC services. The professional technician who visits your home will then be able to tell you if the system can be fixed or if you need to replace it.