HVAC Emergency – What Is It And How Much Does It Cost?
Having problems with your home air conditioner or heating system is never a comfortable experience during unpleasant weather. Homeowners and business owners are frequently unaware of what is going on with their HVAC system. It’s important to know which issues require immediate attention and which can wait till the next working day.
But how can you tell if you have an HVAC emergency? Are there any signs that something is wrong? Should we contact HVAC technicians or do it ourselves? Should you wait for the company’s daytime hours or call for emergency services?
We’ll clear things up for you here by providing some information on what constitutes an HVAC emergency.
1. What is considered as an HVAC emergency?
There are several signs where you can observe to diagnose an HVAC emergency. It’s important to do so since the cost for HVAC restoration is not cheap, so you need to make sure that you’re calling for help with a real problem. Below are some of the hints when you can consider calling for help.
1.1 Screeching Sound
Any noises originating from your HVAC system could indicate an HVAC emergency with your system. However, the equipment has some major flaws that might result in unpleasant roaming sounds. If you notice a screeching noise emanating from the system, it’s time to contact AC repair professionals.
A high level of pressure in the compressor might cause screeching sounds. To prevent further serious damage, it’s critical to shut it down right away. The screeching sound might also be caused by less serious concerns such as slack fan belts. As a result, diagnosing the root problem is critical to ensuring that your system is operating at peak efficiency. In short, when you hear any screeching sound from your machine, turn it off then contact the HVAC technicians.
1.2 Burning smell
When you turn on the air conditioner, do you notice a burning odor? It’s not a good sign when you can smell something burning. When something is wrong with an appliance, it is likely for it to generate a burning odor, and the same goes to your HVAC system.
A burning smell oozing from your HVAC system usually signals an electrical issue. It could be caused by a melted component of the equipment. Do not ignore the burning odor and contact technicians to fix this HVAC emergency case.
1.3 Inadequate Air-flow
Is the HVAC system unable to maintain a suitable temperature of the room? It can be a symptom of a variety of problems with the device if there is no air or insufficient airflow from it.
Although you may prefer to investigate the issue by yourself and save a few dollars by doing some DIY, this is not a good idea in the long term. Who knows, you could need to employ professionals to repair the damage you caused to your HVAC system in the future.
Let the HVAC technicians do what they know best. It can take a long time to find a fault with the equipment. All you have to do now is stop your system and contact the professionals. They’ll get that HVAC emergency case solved in no time.
1.4 Popping Noises
Another HVAC emergency case is popping or buzzing sound, like a burning odor, which can signal a problem with the equipment’s electrical components. While a buzzing noise could be caused by a loose component, it could also be an indication of a significant electrical problem. Instead of doing it yourself, hire a professional to ensure that the problem is identified quickly and that repairs are completed.
1.5 Thwapping
Something is usually stuck to the fan blade of the blower when it makes thwapping noises. While the condition may come and go with the airflow, it is not considered an emergency. The obstructing object, on the other hand, can cause extra wear and strain on the device, reducing its lifespan.
1.6 Clicking Sound
You can also tell an HVAC emergency case when it’s either in the inner air handler or the exterior compressor if you notice a continuous clicking sound from your HVAC system. There are a number of reasons why you’re hearing this noise, and contacting an HVAC professional will make it much easier to figure out what’s wrong.
If your air conditioner makes a clicking sound when you switch it on for the first time in a long time, it means your system is in good operating order. If the sound comes directly from the air conditioner, it could be a symptom of a problem with the air conditioner’s internal components.
1.7 Frozen Coils in Summer
Have you recently encountered frozen coils? If this is the case, ensure the system is turned off and not used while it is frozen. The equipment may be harmed as a result. Because refrigerant temperature is below freezing point, frozen coils might occur even in the summer. Condensation and freezing occur as a result of this.
The low refrigerant temperature might be caused by a variety of factors. If the temperature outdoors is below 60 degrees, the air conditioner may be on. The thermostat is possibly set too low. To avoid this problem, make sure your air conditioner is set above 70 degrees. If the issue persists, contact an HVAC professional.
2. How much does an HVAC emergency cost?
Those who need a new HVAC system should expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the model they choose. Depending on the area, homeowners will likely spend roughly $1,000 on a new furnace, electric baseboard heaters, or other components. HVAC labor expenses should be considered, as it is typically the most expensive component of any repair or replacement project.
Homeowners should budget for HVAC maintenance and repair on a regular basis. Repairing a furnace costs an average of $284, while cleaning ducts and vents costs roughly $364. Making a planned and scheduled appointment might help a homeowner save money, as emergency visits are usually more expensive.
Any of the issues we’ve addressed suggest that you are having an HVAC emergency and your HVAC system may require immediate attention. While other concerns may be addressed in a day or two, the issues discussed in this article require immediate action.