HVAC systems in homes are an essential part in maintaining comfort for their occupants, so being proactive about keeping it well maintained and functional is essential to avoiding expensive repairs or breakdowns.
Just a few simple tasks will keep your system running efficiently year-round, including changing the air filter, inspecting and cleaning return ducts, and lubricating the fan. That said, sometimes problems do arise. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top HVAC challenges to help you.
To ensure your home HVAC system stays reliable and avoids pricey fixes, regular maintenance like changing air filters and checking ducts is key, and for dependable heating repair in Fort Mohave, consider the services available at River Valley Air Conditioning Inc.
You can call them at +1 928-768-2122 or visit them in person at the following address: 5107 AZ-95, Fort Mohave, AZ 86426.
Read below for a list of the most common HVAC issues and their solutions.
1. Clogged drain lines
Maintaining your HVAC system in good condition is vital to providing comfortable and healthy indoor air quality. However, should any issues arise, you must recognize them quickly so they can be resolved. One common example would be blocked drain lines.
Air conditioner drain lines are responsible for draining off excess moisture from the system but may become clogged with dirt and grime over time. One effective method for unclogging these drain lines is flushing clean water through them;
First, shut off your AC system before connecting a hose directly to the drain line and running water through for several minutes until all obstructions have been flushed away.
Another solution is using a wet-dry vacuum on the drain line. Plug it in near its access point and turn the machine on; feed several feet of cable into the pipe while switching on reverse rotation mode to loosen any debris clogging the way. If that doesn’t work, try employing a plumbing snake on it.
2. Low refrigerant levels
Your system’s refrigerant levels may have dipped too low if the air coming through your vents is warm or lukewarm rather than cold. Your AC was designed for an ideal amount of refrigerant; when its levels fall too far below this amount, it can lead to problems in its compressor and other components.
Check your refrigerant levels by inspecting the outdoor unit and looking for signs of ice on its evaporator coils or lines. If this occurs, have an HVAC technician inspect and recharge the refrigerant levels accordingly.
3. Faulty thermostat
Your thermostat serves as the hub of your HVAC system – telling each component what temperature they should set their house to be. But if this key component becomes compromised, it could cause serious problems to other aspects of climate control in your home.
One telltale sign that your thermostat is malfunctioning is when its display screen becomes blank or dark, which could cause short cycling – something that will drive up energy bills while decreasing comfort levels.
Signs that your thermostat is misfiring include sending different temperatures to rooms in your house or not reaching the temperature you set. This could be caused by closed or blocked vents, inaccurate calibration settings, an outdated sensor or dead batteries.
4. Lack of power supply
An HVAC system becoming inoperative often stems from either a faulty thermostat or dead batteries. To tackle this issue, start by examining your circuit breaker or fuse box, typically located in areas like your garage, basement, or utility closet.
Open this container to reveal a row of switches; any that have become off should simply be switched back on for your HVAC to begin functioning again.
Knowing the most frequently encountered HVAC issues and their solutions is essential in being able to call in professionals when necessary.
Many issues have multiple causes that are difficult for an average homeowner to detect without proper training or experience; having this knowledge could prevent some issues altogether and save money on unnecessary repairs.
5. Loud or unusual noises
Noise pollution can be more than an irritation; it can actually be dangerous for your health. According to studies, prolonged exposure to some noises can harm hearing and possibly cause atrial fibrillation.
If your HVAC system makes unusual sounds, it must be immediately examined and repaired.
If your HVAC system makes unusual sounds, it must be immediately examined and repaired. Whining, squealing and rattling noises indicate problems with moving parts and worn-out components that need lubricating; using recommended products will reduce frictional losses and noise production.
If your HVAC system produces loud noises, it could also indicate issues with its blower motor or fan assembly. These components should be regularly lubricated to reduce friction and avoid becoming noisy over time.
The ductwork itself can also make noise. Banging or popping noises are often heard when airflow changes occur in the ducts due to temperature differences or expanding or contracting due to expansion or contraction.
For this reason, ensure your ducts are properly sealed to limit sound-making potential; hiring an HVAC technician with expertise can also assist.
