3 Key Factors to Determine If You Have an Emergency HVAC Situation

The inconvenience of an HVAC system not performing as expected can be alarming for homeowners. There might also be a sense of dread as they ponder whether they will need a new installation or face repairs. Many of the situations that involve loss of heat or cool air are not emergencies even though they may require repairs. However, it is important to recognize serious signals that you need emergency HVAC repair services. The following represent a few. 

Unpleasant Odors

Your HVAC system normally will not produce odors. Sometimes a furnace that has not been used might produce a subtle burnt smell when it is first turned on, but the smell should not linger. This is why furnace maintenance is ideal because a technician will be present when the furnace gets turned on for the first time and can identify whether a problem exists. Lingering burnt odors or those that appear every time you turn on your heat is a sign of a serious issue and could lead to a fire. Gas and rotten egg odors are also serious and could be fatal. 

No Air Production

Sometimes systems that need repairs may produce air but not at the expected flow rate or temperature. For example, you may want to use your AC, but it may blow warm air. You could also face the opposite and want to use your heat and it only provides cool air. This is not necessarily an emergency. HVAC systems are designed to produce some type of airflow. So, if the system is turned on and vents are open, there should be air coming through them even if it is not your preferred temperature.

The total absence of airflow is indicative that a serious issue exists, and you should cease trying to make your HVAC system come on. Use temperature factors as a guideline to determine the extent of the emergency. Extreme temperatures and lack of heat or AC should be deemed serious emergencies.

Odd Sounds

You have likely gotten used to how your HVAC system sounds when you operate it. If you notice odd sounds, it could mean that you have loose or broken components. Your system may appear to perform despite the annoying noise. However, the continued operation can cause damage because the sounds may be indicative of broken or loose components. Use seasonal guidelines to gauge the level of the emergency. Do not operate a noisy system even if you are in dire need of heating or cooling.

For more information or assistance, contact emergency HVAC repair companies.