The HVAC system is a crucial part of your home. However, any issues with your air conditioner could compromise the indoor air quality, result in expensive energy bills, and be detrimental to your health. Some HVAC problems can also be costly and time-consuming to repair. Read on for seven common HVAC system problems and how you could fix them.
1. Lack of regular maintenance
Most people reduce their monthly bills by foregoing regular HVAC system maintenance by licensed professionals such as the Cape Cod HVAC contractor. This results in severe problems with the HVAC units necessitating expensive repairs. You should schedule regular AC maintenance to increase the lifespan and efficiency of your unit.
A professional contractor can identify issues with your system and fix them before they escalate into irreversible problems. Since the HVAC system is expensive to purchase, consider protecting your investment by scheduling annual inspections from a reputable and reliable contractor.
2. Dirty filters
The HVAC system is fitted with air filters that keep dust, dirt, pet fur and dander, and debris from getting into the unit. However, unwanted dirt particles may accumulate on the air filters, clogging them with continued use. A filthy filter restricts airflow, which causes your HVAC unit to work twice as hard to circulate cool air through your living space. A dirty filter could also cause the entire HVAC system to shut down, which is why you should consider replacing your air filters every three months, or clean them regularly to increase your HVAC system’s lifespan and improve its efficiency.
3. Clogged drain line
During the air conditioning process, the HVAC unit drain line plays a crucial role in ensuring proper drainage of condensation water. However, the continued use of the unit leads to dirt, debris, and dust particles building up on the drain line, clogging the system. This stops the condensation water from flowing along the drain line. Some of the most apparent signs of a clogged AC drain line include:
- Water leaks
- Loss of cooling
- Emission of awful stench from the HVAC drain line
To unclog a blocked AC drain line, consider manually removing dirt build-up from the drainpipe with your hands while wearing gloves. You could also pour white vinegar down the tubes using a funnel to remove stubborn sludge. Be sure to seek professional HVAC system services if your drain is still blocked despite several DIY attempts to clean the unit.
4. Issues with the thermostat
These days, most people have upgraded to a programmable thermostat to reduce annual heating and cooling costs and for convenience. You do not have to constantly adjust the temperatures on your unit when leaving or getting to your home with a smart thermostat.
However, getting the correct thermostat setting can be challenging for most people. Be sure to refer to the thermostat instruction manual to get the most out of your unit and avoid seeking expensive service calls. Remember to regularly replace your thermostat’s batteries to improve your unit’s efficiency. If your thermostat is still malfunctioning or having trouble adjusting the correct home temperature, contact a service technician for proper diagnosis.
5. Ignition or pilot issues
Pilot outages or delayed ignition are some of the most common HVAC system problems that could deprive your home of essential heat, or result in hazardous situations. Some of the most common causes of a pilot outage or delayed ignition include:
- Clogged or blocked gas supply
- Filthy pilot light
- Short cycling
- Gas outage
- Wear and tear of the ignition component
- Furnace lockout
Consider having your unit checked out by a trained professional if your system has ignition or pilot issues, as these units are directly linked to dangerous elements such as high voltage and natural gas.
6. Unusual noises
Your HVAC system produces a low and constant hum that may be difficult to detect as it operates. Any unusual or weird noises indicate issues with your unit, necessitating immediate professional services to prevent system failure or dangerous situations. A rattling sound could indicate problems with compressors, motors, or fans. Screeching or squealing noises show a defective belt, while a rumbling sound signifies lighting issues.
7. Imbalanced temperature distribution
Various factors, including the room size, windows, air vents, and external temperatures, to mention a few, determine the heat distribution rates in your home. If you notice that various parts of your home are colder than others, it could indicate issues with your HVAC system. Contact an HVAC system service contractor to help you diagnose and fix problems with the unit. Other ways you could improve heat distribution throughout the house include covering windows with blinds or sun-blocking drapes, adding dampers, and closing all windows and doors when the AC system is running.
Endnote
The HVAC system plays a crucial role in improving indoor air quality. Consider scheduling regular air conditioning system maintenance with a reputable company to stay ahead of the above HVAC unit problems.