Regular inspection is important to catch HVAC system problems quickly to avoid expensive repairs or a complete replacement. As a resource that keeps your home livable throughout the year, it can be frustrating when air conditioning problems happen on an incredibly hot day or when the HVAC system gives up suddenly. This issue occurs in many ways, and it could come with odd sounds, mold, or other odd smells. However, if you listen and pay attention, you may be able to identify several warning signs that could indicate that your HVAC system is about to leak or break down. Continue reading below to learn three leading signs that could mean your air conditioner is approaching the end of its useful life.
Top 3 Signs of a Broken HVAC System
1. Weird Noises
If your HVAC system begins to make strange noises, such as grinding, squealing, or rattling sounds, it is likely a sign that something is wrong with the system’s internal parts. Listen closely to the noise and try to remember how it sounded a year ago or when it was operating properly. It could be a loose belt or failing motor, or the air filter may be clogged with sticks, twigs, leaves, or other debris. The motor bearings, however, may need to be replaced because of aging or damage from temperature. In this case, call a professional to diagnose and fix the problem before it worsens.
2. Musty or foul smells
When your HVAC system is operating, unpleasant or musty smells could indicate the presence of mold or mildew, standing water, or accumulated debris. Aside from making your house smell bad, these smells can harm your health and reduce indoor air quality. Get a qualified HVAC specialist to locate the smell’s origin, resolve the problem, and keep your house healthy.
3. Poor temperature regulation
If some areas in your home are warmer or cooler than others and the air conditioners are not effectively cooling, it may indicate a serious issue such as leaking. Hence, do not just pay attention to your air filter for your health, but check it often for any blockage affecting its efficiency because it is vital for the health of your air conditioner and to prevent your HVAC system from overworking. Hire an experienced property manager in Washington, DC, to ensure routine HVAC maintenance won’t be missed.
Can Landlords Have Tenants Pay for HVAC Repairs?
1. HVAC Repair Clause
Nobody likes surprise repair bills, especially when it has to do with heating and cooling. If your HVAC system breaks down, questions like who foots the bill depend on your lease agreement. As a renter, you may be held accountable for little repairs or asked to cover a percentage of the cost if your landlords include an HVAC repair clause. Others do all the repairs. Since landlords are often responsible for providing a habitable environment, they are typically held accountable for significant HVAC malfunctions. Landlords and tenants need a clear lease with details about their shared responsibility for HVAC maintenance.
Make sure to read through the document before you sign a lease agreement. It’s important to be clear on what are the HVAC responsibilities of landlords. You need to ask questions and be aware of your rights. Doing this will help you avoid being taken by surprise when the air conditioner suddenly stops working during the summer or winter season.
2. Defining Landlord and Tenants Responsibilities
In most cases, landlords are responsible for keeping major systems, such as heating and cooling. A functional HVAC system is important for a livable home. However, there are exceptions to consider such as if the tenant causes the damage due to neglect and failure to change the air filter, the repair cost might fall on landlords.
Your lease agreement also plays an important role in this case. Some landlords include clauses that hold their renters responsible for small maintenance here and there, such as replacing filters or scheduling seasonal tune-ups. Landlords often pay for major HVAC repairs, but as a tenant, you should review your agreement and pay close attention to maintenance-related clauses to avoid surprise charges.
Considerations in the Lease Agreement
1. Define Major Repairs
We all know that no two HVAC repairs are the same. Minor issues, such as somebody replacing air filters or adjusting the thermostat, are normally the tenant’s responsibility. However, large repairs might be a different issue altogether.
Major repairs like compressor, motor, or heat exchanger repair or replacement need a professional and are expensive. Since the landlord is the one who wants a habitable apartment, he/she is the party that would pay for such fixes. The lease should spell out the real problem, and it is the best practice to write in detail who is responsible for repairs so the landlord and tenant involvement is clear.
2. Access for Repairs
Access to the property is important when the HVAC system needs to be repaired. Most lease agreements will have a provision for landlord entry for maintenance. While the landlord is responsible for fixing major issues with the rental property, he or she usually must give tenants 24 to 48 hours’ notice before entry.
Emergencies, such as a heater breaking down in winter, may be under the 24-hour notice provision. Tenants need to be aware of their rights and communicate this immediately with their landlords to avoid any further damage in the HVAC system.
3. Cost Allocation
Any lease will clearly outline the HVAC maintenance and expense policies. Some landlords foot the bill, while others pass the cost on to the tenants.
Look for maintenance clauses in the lease agreement. For example, does it indicate who will take care of small repairs, such as filter changes? Is a description of repair costs included? If the agreement holds the tenant responsible for minor repairs, then it’s inevitable for you to pitch in.
Conclusion
The HVAC system needs to be well-maintained for the comfort of tenants during their lease. It’s important to have a clear definition of the lease agreement about knowing who is responsible for what is essential to save time, money, and resentment in dealing with repairs. The major house repairs are generally left to a landlord, while the small details go to the renter.
All these details should be clearly stated in the lease agreement. If your HVAC system is glitching, you will know what step to take. Make preparations ahead of time and spare yourself a lot of trouble later on, for no one wants to deal with the problem that a broken HVAC system will create when it is most needed.
