While your HVAC should last a long time if you maintain it properly, problems can arise for various reasons such as storm damage, mice gnawing on wires, or parts wearing out due to age.

It's always important to get HVAC repairs done promptly because you might make the problems worse if you run your furnace or AC when parts are going bad. Here are three signs it's time to call an HVAC repair service to have your equipment checked and serviced.

1. When You See Ice On The Refrigerant Coils

Ice on the air conditioner is a sign of a problem that needs to be taken care of right away. A common reason ice forms is when dust coats the evaporator coil. However, if you've been diligent about having your HVAC serviced, there shouldn't be too much dust inside your equipment unless you've been lax about changing the filter.

The problem might be low refrigerant, and this is a problem an HVAC repair technician needs to fix or it will get worse since more and more refrigerant will leak out until the leak is found and plugged.

2. When The HVAC Can't Keep You Cool Or Warm

If your AC can't keep you cool in the summer or your furnace doesn't keep you warm in the winter, the problem might be with your ducts. Ducts can be damaged by animals or get damaged by boxes falling on them in your attic. If treated air leaks in your attic, there won't be enough air blowing into your living space to keep you comfortable.

A leaky duct is usually an easy repair for an HVAC technician since all that may be necessary is to seal the duct to close the gap. Another problem that can affect both heating and cooling is a problem with the blower. If the blower motor is bad or a capacitor has gone bad, your air handler blower may not run as it should. When less air is created, there is less air blowing through your ducts and into your home.

3. When Your Furnace Makes Odd Noises

If you have a gas furnace and it suddenly starts making banging noises or other odd sounds, call an HVAC repair service and let them know. The problem might be a buildup of soot or dirt on the burners that is keeping the burners from lighting. This lets gas accumulate until it ignites with a banging sound. This situation needs quick repairs, but not all odd sounds are serious. It takes an HVAC professional to determine the cause of unusual sounds and if they are cause for concern.

Reach out to a local HVAC repair service to learn more.