Almost every summer breakdown we run in Palo Alto, CA was visible months earlier to anyone holding a meter. A run capacitor reads 8 percent under its rating in April and fails on the first 95-degree afternoon. The refrigerant charge drifts low through a pinhole leak and the system struggles a full season before the coil finally freezes. A flame sensor fouls gradually until the furnace picks the coldest night of the year to start locking out. Maintenance exists to catch this arc early, when the fix is a scheduled part swap instead of an emergency call.
The repairs homeowners call us about most are AC Repair and Furnace Repair. Start there if your system isn't running right.
Warning Signs for HVAC Maintenance
The sooner you notice these red flags, the easier and cheaper the fix. These are the signals our technicians see most often:
- A startup sound that has changed since last year
- Musty air when the fan starts, or a filter that has been in far too long
- The house taking longer to reach the temperature you set
- You simply have no idea what condition your equipment is actually in
- Higher heating and cooling costs with no clear explanation
- A surprise breakdown during the last hot or cold spell
- It has been more than a year since anyone opened the equipment
- A newer unit with warranty terms that call for regular professional service
Early Action Saves Money
Left unchecked, even a small fault or temperature swing often signals a system working its way toward a breakdown. At the first hint of a problem, call (650) 220-0821 for a fast inspection.
