Once frost hits northern Illinois, you know it is time to use your heater. From December to February, your heating system works tirelessly to keep you warm and comfortable. However, this also means your system works harder to maintain climate conditions, increasing the chances of wear and tear, breakdown, and costly energy bills.
Rather than risk system failure, you should schedule HVAC repairs as soon as these issues arise.
Recognizing Early Warning Signs
The first step to preventing a winter HVAC disaster is to look out for signs of early breakage. Keep an eye out for:
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Inconsistent Heating: If some rooms feel warmer than others, or you notice frequent cycling, there’s likely a problem with your system.
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Strange Noises: Unusual banging, clanking, or squealing sounds from your HVAC system could mean internal damage.
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Increased Energy Bills: Broken parts or reduced efficiency can cause higher energy costs. Schedule an inspection if you notice energy bills randomly spike.
Emergency Situations
Certain situations require immediate HVAC repair, especially during the winter, including:
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Complete System Failure: Call for repair ASAP if your HVAC system stops working. Prolonged exposure to extremely low temperatures can lead to frozen pipes and other serious issues.
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Carbon Monoxide Leaks: A malfunctioning HVAC system can potentially release deadly carbon monoxide gas. If you notice symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or nausea, evacuate your home immediately and call for professional help.
Note: We recommend having a carbon monoxide detector installed near your furnace.
When to Call for Heat Pump Repair
Heat pumps are alternative HVAC units to traditional furnaces and air conditioners. These devices connect to an outdoor central unit to blow warm or cold air in individual rooms. Because they have unique internal components, look out for these signs of breakage:
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Insufficient Heating: Heat pumps are efficient heating systems, but if you notice a decline in performance, it’s time to call for repairs. Performance issues commonly stem from issues with the compressor or refrigerant levels.
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Frost Buildup: During winter, it’s normal for heat pumps to have a layer of frost on the outdoor unit. However, excessive ice and snow accumulation can freeze the outdoor units and external components.
Final Considerations
Knowing when to get winter HVAC repair is crucial for keeping your home warm. If you spot warning signs early and deal with emergencies quickly, your heating system will work properly all season.
Allied Air Conditioning & Heating is Here to Help!
Whenever you need professional HVAC repair services, call Allied Air Conditioning & Heating at 847-262-3349. We are available 24/7, providing top-notch heating repairs to keep you safe and comfortable. We also service heat pumps in addition to traditional HVAC units. Schedule service today or request a free estimate.
