What’s the difference between routine fixes and urgent HVAC repairs? Some cooling and heating issues are minor nuisances that can be resolved whenever it’s convenient. On the other hand, certain circumstances demand prompt attention by a qualified HVAC technician ASAP.
Delaying proper service may compromise home safety as well as inflict costly damage on expensive HVAC components. The bottom line is this: When certain circumstances occur, urgent HVAC repairs shouldn’t be postponed. Here are some signs and symptoms to be aware of.
Natural Gas Leakage
The odor of natural gas in the house is always an emergency. If the smell seems to originate from the furnace area or is coming from heating vents in rooms, go to the thermostat and turn off the furnace immediately. Get all occupants out of the house and call 911 or the gas company. Once qualified emergency responders are on the scene, call your HVAC contractor and report the situation.
Air Conditioner Short-Cycling
If you notice the AC turning on and then turning off again almost immediately, consider it a warning sign that may require urgent HVAC repairs to prevent costly damage. Short-cycling may be a simple matter of a clogged air filter. However, it’s also a symptom of critical issues like a refrigerant leak or a compressor motor running too hot. Shut off the AC at the thermostat to prevent further damage and contact your HVAC contractor for emergency service.
Furnace Auto-Shutdown
A heating system turning itself off automatically is usually indicative of a furnace safety issue that warrants urgent HVAC repairs. The unit may be overheating dangerously and triggering a high-limit shutdown switch. An airflow blockage somewhere in the system may also generate excess heat and cause a shutdown. Don’t continue restarting the furnace. Instead, call for qualified HVAC service right away.
Unexplained Cost Increases
If monthly gas or electric bills suddenly spike and there's no obvious explanation (like rate hikes), don't just keep paying higher bills. Get the system checked out and have any urgent HVAC repairs made now, before more unnecessary expense is incurred.
For qualified professional service when urgent HVAC repairs are needed (and any time), contact Air Assurance.