7 of the Most Common HVAC Problems and Issues You Should Know
Has your HVAC system started acting up?
A HVAC system is an important part of staying comfortable in your home, but most of us don’t know exactly how they work! There are many different HVAC problems and issues that you should know about in order to keep your system up and running.
Read on to learn about the common HVAC problems that occur in the home.
1. Blocked Air Filter
Air filters in HVAC systems keep the internal parts of the system from being clogged with dust and debris. But that means that over time, they become clogged themselves.
This can lead to an increased load, which causes high running costs and can damage the system. To avoid this replace your filters regularly, following the manufacturer guidelines.
2. Refrigerant Leak
Your AC cools your house thanks to refrigerant liquid, which dehumidifies and cools air that passes through the system. Your HVAC contains just the right amount of refrigerant, so if you have a leak your system will suffer.
Your HVAC won’t be able to cool enough air, causing your home to heat up and the condenser to work extra hard. Overworking the condenser can cause further damage and increase bills.
3. Strange Noises
All furnaces, even “silent” ones, make noises. But it is important to listen out for changes in the sounds your furnace makes.
New whining or squealing motor noises are often the first sign that the bearings in your motors are failing. Dirty burners or blocked airflow can also cause strange noises in your vents. If you hear a new sound, it is worth getting it checked out before it leads to a larger issue.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
The thermostats work as the brain of your HVAC system, so whenever you have a problem with your thermostat, your whole system starts to act weirdly.
The most common thermostat issues are dead batteries and mechanical issues. You will most often notice these when your system seems to work perfectly, but the temperature is not what you set.
5. Ignition Problems
When a furnace fails to start, it is most often a simple problem. Dirt on your pilot, burner or flame sensor can all cause a failed ignition. If you perform regular furnace maintenance this is less likely to be the issue, and a gas supply issue or faulty component is more likely to blame.
6. Inconsistent Temperature
The hot or cool air that your HVAC systems sends to your rooms travels through your vents. If you notice that some rooms are warmer than others, despite being set to the same temperature, then you may have an issue with your dampers.
Alternatively, your vents might be partially blocked by debris. Either way, you should get it checked out before your system over stresses itself.
7. Blown Fuses
If you find your furnace is blowing fuses or tripping your circuit breaker, then the most likely cause is an overworking blower. Installing a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) will allow your blower to automatically adjust its speed, saving your breakers and your electricity bill! You can source VFDs from companies such as Invertek Drives Midwest, LLC.
Look out for Common HVAC Problems
Always be on the lookout for these common HVAC problems. None of these are serious, but if you leave them too long they could grow into a larger problem. Most common issues are due to lack of maintenance, so be sure to set aside time to service your HVAC system, or hire a professional to do it for you.
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