Your HVAC system is designed to keep you comfortable all year round, but that doesn’t mean it’s always going to work exactly the way you need. When you have issues with your HVAC system, it’s important to call in a professional to get help before it gets worse. Let’s review the most common reasons for HVAC service calls.
Thermostat Malfunctions
When the furnace isn’t heating up as it should, or you notice hiked-up power bills, the culprit is often the thermostat. Faulty thermostats, whether dial type, programmable or smart thermostats, can be quickly spotted by an HVAC technician and repaired or replaced to minimize ongoing high utility bills.
Leaking Refrigerant
Leaking refrigerant on the exhaust or intake side affects your HVAC’s cooling. An uptick in heat despite turning on the AC could be from low refrigerant caused by a leak. If you have a leak, it will only get worse. It is important to enlist the services of a qualified HVAC expert to fix the leaks and replace the refrigerant correctly. Be prepared, sometimes the leak is so extensive or the system is so old or in bad shape that replacement of the entire system might be the only viable option.
Leaky Ducts
Leaking ducts cause your HVAC to work inefficiently. Leakage in the ductwork causes low cooling and low heating in the house. Since most of the HVAC ductwork is installed above the ceiling, you may not spot leaks immediately until you see damage to your walls and ceilings. It is best not to ignore such signs of leaking ductwork.
Blown Fuses and Tripped Circuit Breakers
At times, your HVAC system shuts off on its own, but doesn’t start back up. When you notice your split system shutting down like this, it is not a gremlin playing tricks on you. Blown fuses and tripped circuit breakers cause the system to shut off.
Dirty filters cause the blower and evaporator to overwork, resulting in recurring blown fuses and tripped breakers. An overworked blower drives up your power bills and affects heating. Replacing your air filter is the first step, but it’s probably a good idea to have a professional HVAC service technician check out the system.
A Noisy HVAC
When split systems are working efficiently, they produce little sound. But if there is internal mechanical fixture wear and tear, you will notice strange sounds from your furnace, indicating an impending failure. You need to call an HVAC specialist to replace the worn-out fixtures or the entire furnace motor.
Dirt and Debris in the Coils
Dirty evaporator and condenser coils reduce your system’s efficiency and accelerate wear and tear. Most people think the simple DIY fix is to run water inside the coils. DO NOT DO THIS. Improperly washing the coils will likely reduce their efficiency and introduce rust. Instead, call an HVAC service technician to clean the coils. Schedule regular maintenance, especially if you live in an area with twigs, leaves, and other debris around the outdoor unit.
Sensor Problems
HVAC systems have flame and air sensors that control the surface ignitor and the amount of air coming in through the evaporator coils. Damage to the sensors means your home won’t be as warm or cool as you want it to be.
Most people wait until summer and winter to call in HVAC specialists when they are in high demand. Be a smart homeowner and schedule maintenance during off-peak seasons to save money and ensure your HVAC system runs efficiently. If you have any of these problems, call an HVAC professional in Columbia from MasterTech Plumbing, Heating and Cooling to check, repair, or maintain your HVAC system.