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Grinding, Squealing and Screeching: Interpreting the Noises Your HVAC Makes

If something is failing or going amiss with your HVAC unit, chances are, your HVAC unit is letting you know something is not quite right. However, most of the cues come in the form of sounds that many of us may overlook. If you hear your HVAC unit grinding, squealing, screeching or squeaking, it is letting you know it needs help. I was unaware of these cues and overlooked them. It ended up costing me a lot of money in repairs. I want to make sure that does not happen to other people, so I made this website. I hope you learn how to interpret the noises your HVAC unit is making so you can get it the repairs it needs before you incur a costly repair, or worse, permanently ruin your unit for good.

Grinding, Squealing and Screeching: Interpreting the Noises Your HVAC Makes

Signs That Your Heating System Needs Repair

by Billie Carlson

Your heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system is one of the most important amenities in your home, especially during the cold winter months. Nevertheless, a system can develop issues over time and require repair.

Here are some signs that your heating system may need repair. 

Your Energy Bills Are Higher Than Usual

If your heating system is not running efficiently, it may consume more energy than necessary, resulting in higher bills. The inefficiency could be due to a dirty filter, a faulty thermostat, leaky ductwork, or other issues that require professional attention. Once the issues are remedied, your energy bills should be lower.

Your Home Is Not Evenly Heated

If you notice that some rooms are colder or warmer than others, or that there are cold spots or drafts in your home, it could mean that your heating system is not distributing the heat evenly. This could be caused by a blocked vent, a damaged fan, or a malfunctioning zone valve.

You may be tempted to simply purchase space heaters. However, the additional appliances will simply inflate your energy costs. It is best to have your heating unit checked and serviced.

Your Heating System Makes Strange Noises

If you hear banging, clanging, rattling, squealing, or hissing sounds from your heating system, it could indicate that something is wrong with its components. A loose belt, a worn-out bearing, a cracked heat exchanger, or a leaking pipe could produce these noises and pose a safety hazard.

Your Heating System Cycles On and Off Frequently

If your heating system turns on and off more often than normal, it could mean that it is struggling to maintain the desired temperature. This could be due to a dirty filter, a faulty thermostat, a low refrigerant level, or other problems that affect its performance and efficiency.

Your Heating System Emits Unpleasant Odors

If you smell burning, musty, or rotten smells from your heating system, it could signal a malfunction. A burning smell could indicate an electrical problem; a musty smell could be caused by mold growth, and a rotten smell could stem from a gas leak.

Each unpleasant smell may alert you to a potential safety issue. Thus, it is important to have your unit professionally inspected as soon as possible.

If you notice signs that your heating unit is not working properly, contact an HVAC professional in your local area. They can check your system and perform any necessary repairs or replacements.

Reach out to a company like ABCO Heating & Cooling for more info.

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