How To Spot HVAC Issues Before It’s Too Late: 7 Signs To Look Out For

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Some house noises are creepy, while others might indicate something that can chill most homeowners to the bone: an HVAC problem.

These interferences can come in the form of a hissing, popping, or clicking noise, or a high-pitched squeal akin to nails on a chalkboard. Don’t ignore these sounds! They could be your HVAC system trying to get your attention.

“Apart from the typical noises the furnace will make when starting up, there shouldn’t be any loud noises coming from the system while it’s on,” says Traci Fournier, vice president of operations at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning. “Oftentimes, this is one of the first indicators that the furnace is on its last legs.”

Being attuned to sketchy noises is one way to identify an HVAC issue. But are you aware of the other telltale signs that might indicate your HVAC needs servicing or is about to go kaput?

Pay attention to the following HVAC-related signs ASAP before there’s a major (read: expensive) disaster.

1. Problems with the thermostat

Living room feeling a little chillier than normal? If you notice your thermostat doesn’t match the temperature of the room, the heater runs without pause, or the furnace short-cycles and shuts off before the room reaches the set temperature, you might have a thermostat issue.

“Most often, thermostat issues stem from wiring problems, which causes the thermostat to ignore any temperature in the home altogether,” says Fournier.

Also, watch for water pooling around your HVAC unit, which could indicate a blocked condensate drain line or refrigerant leak, which will require a professional to clear clogs or fix cracks or holes.

2. Strange noises

Noises like squealing, hissing, grinding, rattling, or clunking could point to an issue with a belt or a loose part in your HVAC and should be investigated by a professional.

“Cracks in the system, leaks, or other comprehensive issues might be more costly to repair than just biting the bullet and investing in a new furnace,” says Fournier.

The cost of a new HVAC system ranges from $5,000 to $12,500, based on the unit size and brand.

3. Dead pilot light

A pilot light is the small flame found on appliances that run on gas, like your furnace, water heater, and fireplace. When you switch on your appliance, gas is released and the pilot light ignites the gas to power your appliance. But if you don’t see your pilot light flickering, it might indicate a larger issue.

The most common reason for a faulty pilot light is a dirty or damaged thermocouple. The thermocouple is a sensor that helps prevent a gas leak.

If you notice that your pilot light won’t relight, call your local HVAC specialist for an assessment.

4. Strange smells

A strange, lingering smell could be a sign there’s something going on with your HVAC system. It could be a burning or moldy, rotten smell. Sometimes this smell can be tracked to your air-conditioning vents or outdoor compressor.

“Your nose knows,” says Dan Mock, vice president of operations at Mister Sparky. “With more people indoors in winter, appliances can get overloaded. If an appliance develops a burning smell when in use, immediately stop using it.”

If the odor smells like rotten eggs, it could be a gas leak. Open the windows and doors of your home, and evacuate immediately. Call the gas company.

5. Higher bills than usual

It’s normal to have a fluctuating energy bill throughout the year, but if it’s unusually higher than normal, you might want to take a closer look at your HVAC system.

“If you notice your electric bill has dramatically increased since you started using the furnace, it could mean it’s not working as efficiently as it should be. The furnace might be running for longer periods of time, thus running your electric bill up,” says Fournier.

6. A different temperature in each room

Your bedroom is warm and cozy, but the family room feels like it’s in the North Pole. It might be due to your HVAC.

“The furnace is most likely old or overworked and isn’t pushing out the necessary heat throughout the home as it should be. While you could have a licensed professional make repairs to the furnace, it’s a short-term solution or patch that eventually will have to be addressed again,” says Fournier.

7. Power fluctuations

An HVAC system that turns on and off every few minutes and doesn’t reach the set temperature is short-cycling.

This could mean the system does not have enough power to keep it properly functioning, which could damage your breakers or the home’s power supply. Or your system could be overheating, which can be a dangerous fire hazard.

Experts recommend contacting a professional to correctly diagnose a potential issue and repair or replace your HVAC.

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