Your HVAC system starts having problems in the middle of the night or over a weekend. It could even happen on a holiday when no one is open. After a few quick checks, you find you can’t get it to work properly. Now you need to call in a professional. But, you wonder, is it an emergency or can it wait? Here’re some guidelines for what is considered an HVAC emergency.
The Weather
What kind of weather are you experiencing? Summers here in the Atlanta area get quite hot. If your air conditioning breaks down on a day when it’s in the high 90s, it’s definitely an emergency. The same goes for the rare cold snap we experience. When your heating breaks down when the lows are in the 30s or below, it’s an emergency. Extremes in heat and cold can pose health risks.
If the temperatures are comfortable enough not to need the heating or cooling system, it’s likely not an emergency. Call for a regular service call the next business day.
How Severe is the Problem
Some HVAC problems are more urgent and serious than others. A leaky pipe or a dirty air filter is likely not an emergency. Other issues, however, need immediate attention.
- Loud screeching noises – These types of noises can happen due to a loose belt which isn’t necessarily an emergency. However, they can also be a signal that pressures are building up to a dangerous level. If you hear these sounds, turn the system off and call in a professional to take a look.
- Popping and buzzing noises – If it sounds like electricity is popping and buzzing anywhere in the system, it’s potentially a very dangerous situation. Turn off the system and bring in the professionals as soon as you can.
- Burning smell – Try to verify the burning smell is coming from your heating or cooling system. If it is, you may have an electrical problem somewhere in the system. Shut it off and call for an emergency furnace repair.
- No airflow – You turn on the system but there’s no air coming out. Your air handler or compressor is having a major issue. Verify the air filter is clean, then try turning it back on. If it’s still not working, make the call for help.
- The smell of rotten eggs – The smell of sulfur or rotten eggs is a strong sign that you may have a gas leak. If your home has natural gas for heating or cooking, turn off the gas and get someone out to check the line for leaks.
If you have an HVAC emergency, you should call in our heating and cooling specialists. We can make an emergency furnace repair or get your A/C running again.
