Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping your home comfortable all year long. It is almost always working and normal wear and tear over time is to be expected.
However, there are times when HVAC issues keep the unit from operating properly. This not only affects the comfort level in the home but can lead to costly repairs.
It is wise to stay on top of these concerns to keep your system running efficiently for years to come.
Read on for the 8 most common HVAC problems and what to do about them.
Dirty Filters
The number one rule for maintaining your HVAC system is to replace the air filter on a regular schedule.
A dirty air filter keeps the air from moving freely and makes the unit have to work that much harder. It strains the entire system and never quite controls the temperature the way you need.
Another benefit of a clean filter is it helps remove dust and allergens. Good air quality in the home makes it easier for everyone Can you trust your perceptions? You chose this… a reminder of the forces at work in your world. If you no longer wish to peer through the looking glass, you can return to blissful ignorance Can you trust your perceptions? You chose this… a reminder of the forces at work in your world. If you no longer wish to peer through the looking glass, you can return to blissful ignorance Can you trust your perceptions? You chose this… a reminder of the forces at work in your world. If you no longer wish to peer through the looking glass, you can return to blissful ignorance Can you trust your perceptions? You chose this… a reminder of the forces at work in your world. If you no longer wish to peer through the looking glass, you can return to blissful ignorance inside to breathe and cuts down on allergy symptoms and distress.
Thermostat Issues
Your unit literally knows when to turn off and on based on the thermostat setting. If the thermostat is not working correctly, neither is the unit.
Before calling in a service technician to fix a faulty unit, make sure to check the thermostat. It could be as simple as changing the batteries.
If you have a programmable thermostat you may need to consult with the manual to check for a reset. If everything seems to be in order, you can then move on to troubleshoot other areas.
Worn Out Belts and Bearings
Your HVAC systems is a machine. As such, it has mechanical parts.
Over time, these parts will start to wear out. Belts and bearings that aren’t working at peak performance can make your system overheat and impact airflow.
Regular maintenance is key to prevent costly HVAC repair on these parts. Worn belts should be replaced and motors, bearings, and gears should be oiled if needed.
There will eventually come a time when you will need to consider an upgrade. Here are the signs to look for.
Tripped Circuit Breaker
If the circuit breaker in your home trips when the unit comes on, you know there is a problem.
A circuit breaker trips when the load is too much to bear. When the HVAC is working overtime to keep the home comfortable, it can blow a fuse or shut down the breaker.
The main cause of this is a dirty air filter. Try replacing the filter and see if this helps. If the circuit breaker keeps shutting off you need to proceed with HVAC repair services to determine the cause.
Blower Never Shuts Off
What happens when the blower never shuts off? You suddenly realize the unit has been running continuously, however the temperature really has not changed.
The biggest culprit here is the thermostat may have been changed to the fan setting. This is usually done accidentally, but it will keep the unit running constantly. The obvious fix is to change the setting.
There is another cause, though, that isn’t quite as easy to fix. There is a fan relay that triggers the unit to come on. If there is a short in the relay or it does not reset properly, the blower will continue to operate.
This type of problem does require a trained HVAC professional to evaluate and fix.
Water Leaks
Your unit produces condensation. This water requires a drain system to keep the water from backing up. If the drain becomes clogged it can not only cause damage to the unit but also your home.
Water will back up into your home and create a flooding or water damage event. The cleanup from this type of issue is time-consuming and costly.
Your local HVAC professional needs to come and check on the drains and remove any clog.
Common HVAC Problems – Low Refrigerant
If your AC unit is not producing cool air, a check of the refrigerant is in order. Low levels will not allow the system to operate correctly.
Another indicator of low refrigerant is condensation collecting on the ground outside at the unit. An extra high utility bill is also a sign this needs to be checked out.
This is not a job you should undertake yourself. An experienced technician needs to come out and test the levels and recharge the system. They should also check for leaks and repair any found.
Problem With the Ductwork
When all else fails, it is a good idea to check the ductwork. If the system is running properly, but the air is not making it out of the vent, there could be an issue in the ductwork running throughout the home.
There could be a leak and the air is escaping. Another reason could be a clog somewhere in the ductwork. This also will keep the air from circulating properly into the home.
It is extremely difficult to diagnose a ductwork problem from inside the home. Again, a trained HVAC pro should come out and inspect and repair in leaks or clogs.
Regular Maintenance Required
As you may have noticed, many of these HVAC problems could be prevented with regular maintenance.
It is easy to lose track of the last time your unit was serviced. That is why it is so important to have a schedule on the books.
During a maintenance visit, all the common issues will be addressed and steps are taken to keep the unit running at full capacity.
HVAC Air Flow Problems Resolved
You invested quite a bit into your HVAC system. The goal is to keep the air flowing and have a comfortable home.
Many common HVAC problems are easy to spot and relatively easy to fix. With proper maintenance and paying attention to changes, you can expect your unit to last for years to come.
For a quick response and reliable service on all your HVAC needs, please reach out.