If the weather is getting hotter where you are and you have turned the cold air on your HVAC unit on for the first time this year, it may have problems. Fortunately, there are some signs you can watch for that indicate it needs to be repaired. Two of these signs are below so you will know that you need to call in a professional.

Strange Smells

If you smell strange smells coming out of the air vents when you turn on your HVAC unit, this indicates that you have mold or mildew inside of the unit and duct system. There could also be a lot of dust inside of them. It is important that the HVAC unit gets cleaned because it contaminates the air. Each time the unit comes on this contaminated air circulates throughout your home. This can cause health problems with your family, and can especially bother someone if they have allergies.

You can clean the mold yourself, if you prefer. First, turn off the HVAC unit and replace the air filter or anything else that is porous. Double bag whatever you remove and dispose of it. If you see any standing water remove it with a wet vacuum. Go outside and remove the cover from the unit. Clean non-porous surfaces with a disinfectant that is specifically made for HVAC units. This includes your duct work, pans, and coils. This disinfectant not only cleans these surfaces but also kills the mold spores.  Purchase a mold and mildew inhibitor that is specifically made for HVAC units. Spray it on all surfaces.

Before you do any of this, make sure you wear proper face protection, such as a mask and safety glasses.

Wrong Temperature

Your HVAC unit cycles off and on throughout the day to keep the temperature at the same level throughout your home. If the temperature in your home is not right, you may notice that HVAC unit is turning off and on much more than it normally does or it is running continuously.

The evaporator coil may be covered with dirt and debris. If so, the evaporator coil has a much harder time cooling. If you feel warm air coming out of the vents in your home and the unit runs constantly, the evaporator coil may be frozen. It could also be something as simple as a clogged air filter.

If your unit has these signs turn it off immediately before further damage is done.

Contact an HVAC technician to come to your home to repair your HVAC unit. They can also maintain it while they are there to ensure it is not having other problems you are not yet aware of. For more information, contact companies like Patriot Mechanical.