Do you think your HVAC system might be broken? What are some common issues that might occur and how can you troubleshoot them?
You’re not alone! Many homeowners experience HVAC problems at one time or another. Here are four of the most common HVAC issues and how to troubleshoot and maintain them yourself.
Read on to learn more.
1. Thermostat Problems
If your HVAC system isn’t heating or cooling properly, the first thing you should check is the thermostat. Make sure it’s set to the correct temperature and that the batteries aren’t dead.
If the batteries are fine and the thermostat is still not working properly, you may need to calibrate it. To do this, you’ll need a thermometer.
Place the thermometer near the thermostat and wait until it stabilizes at the current room temperature.
Once it does, adjust the thermostat until it reads the same temperature as the thermometer. If this doesn’t fix the problem, you may need to call a professional for help.
2. Clogged Air Filters
Your HVAC system relies on a network of ducts to circulate air throughout your home. To keep the air clean, the system is equipped with an air filter.
The filter traps dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, preventing them from circulating through the house. However, over time, the filter can become clogged with debris.
When this happens, the flow of air is restricted, causing the system to work harder to circulate air. As a result, a clogged air filter can lead to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills.
To keep your HVAC system running efficiently, it is important to hire an Air Duct Cleaning service on regular basis to ensure that the filters and ducts do not become filled with dust and debris. Not only will this save you money in the long run, but it’ll also reduce the likelihood of allergies and other health problems from breathing in dust and other particles that haven’t been filtered out.
3. Refrigerant Leaks
One of the most common reasons for an air conditioner to stop working is a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is what helps to cool the air, so when there is a leak, it can prevent the unit from working properly.
In some cases, a simple repair can fix the leak and get the AC unit up and running again. However, if the leak is severe, it may be necessary to replace the entire unit.
If you suspect that your AC unit has a refrigerant leak, it’s important to contact a professional for help. Trying to fix the problem yourself could make the situation worse and cause further damage to your AC unit.
4. Dirty Coils
One of the most common causes of inefficient heating and cooling is dirty coils. The evaporator coil and condenser coil need to be cleaned regularly to prevent the build-up of dirt and dust.
Not only does this build-up reduce the efficiency of the coils, but it can also lead to breakdowns and repairs.
Cleaning coils is not a difficult task, but it does require some knowledge and understanding of how the system works. If you are not comfortable cleaning the coils yourself, you can hire a professional to do it for you.
However, if you do choose to clean the coils yourself, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
First, make sure you turn off the power to the unit before you begin. Second, be careful not to damage the coils while cleaning them. And third, make sure you reassemble the unit correctly when you are finished.
Following these simple HVAC maintenance tips will help to ensure that your heating and cooling system stays in top working condition, and you’ll avoid having to call repair services.
Additional Issues That Can Arise
One of the most important parts of your HVAC system is the fan. The fan helps to circulate air and keep your home comfortable. However, if the fan is not working properly, it can lead to a variety of problems.
The first issue you may notice is reduced efficiency. If the air isn’t circulating properly, your system will have to work harder to maintain the desired temperature.
This can lead to higher energy bills and increased wear and tear on your system. You may also notice that your home is unevenly heated or cooled.
This can be caused by a build-up of dust and debris on the fan blades, which prevents them from spinning properly.
If you notice any of these issues, it’s essential to check the fan and motor to make sure they’re clean and in good working condition. You may need to replace the motor if it’s not working properly.
By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your HVAC system runs smoothly and efficiently.
Damaged Ductwork
Your HVAC system is a complex machine that relies on a network of ducts to deliver heated or cooled air to your home. If any of these ducts are damaged, it can disrupt the flow of air and cause your system to operate inefficiently.
In some cases, damaged ductwork can even lead to your HVAC system blowing hot or cold air into the wrong rooms. To keep your system running smoothly, it’s important to inspect the ductwork regularly for holes or leaks.
If you find any damage, repair or replace the affected section of ductwork as soon as possible. By taking this proactive approach, you can help ensure that your HVAC system is always operating at peak performance.
DIY Troubleshooting
If you’re having trouble with your HVAC system, don’t hesitate to troubleshoot the issue yourself before calling a professional like Lyons Air & Heat. Chances are, it’s something simple that you can fix on your own.
By troubleshooting these common issues, you can save yourself a lot of time and money. And if it turns out that your HVAC system does need repair, you’ll know exactly what the problem is and be able to get it fixed quickly.
When something goes wrong with your HVAC system, it can be a major inconvenience. Luckily, some issues are more common than others and can be easily fixed at home with a little troubleshooting.
Ready to Troubleshoot Your HVAC Issues?
Have you ever had to deal with HVAC issues? If so, you know that they can come in all shapes and sizes. From frozen coils to a broken thermostat, there are plenty of potential issues that can arise.
In this article, we’ve outlined four of the most common HVAC issues along with some extra points and how to troubleshoot them at home.
We hope this information is helpful the next time you find yourself faced with an HVAC problem. And be sure to check out the rest of our blog for more articles like this one!
