Modern heating and cooling systems are engineered to provide reliable temperature and indoor air quality regulation. However, they depend on a wide array of components to achieve this. Unfortunately, with time, HVAC components become worn out, causing ineffective functioning. Poor HVAC functioning is certainly frustrating to homeowners, especially during summer or winter when indoor comfort is a priority.
Ideally, heating, ventilation, and conditioning system problems should be addressed immediately to prevent discomfort from temperature changes. While most HVAC issues can be fixed, you should hire experts in air conditioner repair. Below are a few issues that can affect your unit’s functionality.
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1. Dirty Air Conditioning Filter
HVAC units use an air filter to trap contaminants from air being drawn into your home. Over time, trapped dust, pollen, dirt, mold, and other air pollutants clog your systems’ air filter. A clogged air filter strains your air conditioner, forcing it to work harder to meet the set temperatures.
An overworked air conditioner consumes a lot of energy and shortens the lifespan of various components. The system also gradually becomes ineffective, spreading contaminants around your house. Check your system’s air filter monthly and replace it every three months.
2. Thermostat Issues
Proper positioning of the thermostat is important for accurate indoor temperature readings. Thermostats positioned on warm, sunny walls that are close to air registers, ovens, or drafty windows and doors cannot provide accurate temperature readings. The thermostat component can also trap dust, causing faulty readings.
Ineffective thermostats pressure your HVAC system to work harder and use more energy. If the thermostat is skewed upwards, your system may not run well to provide comfortable temperatures. If the thermostat doesn’t give any readings, suspect a wiring problem or batteries for wireless thermostats.
3. Low Refrigerant
Heating and cooling systems use refrigerants to absorb and exhaust heat during winter and summer to warm and cool your house. However, if your system has low refrigerant levels due to leaking or poor installation, it won’t cool or warm optimally. You will also notice a corresponding increase in energy bills.
Fortunately, low refrigerant levels due to leaking are very notable. Apart from abnormal indoor temperatures, you may notice wet areas or oily streaks around the compressor or hose connections. Most old air conditioners leak slowly every year. You should replace the refrigerant as part of routine HVAC maintenance after a few years.
4. Leaking or Dirty Ductwork
The HVAC ductwork carries hot and cold air through the walls to various rooms. Any leaks in the ductwork or gaps mean that warmed or cooled air will end up in the walls and won’t reach the designated rooms. Temperatures in these spaces won’t be met, forcing the air conditioner to work harder and increase the energy bill.
Leaking air ducts often result from poor installation or pest problems. If you are uncertain about the performance of your unit due to increased utility bills or temperature differences in various rooms, schedule a timely expert inspection.
Endnote
Several issues can go wrong with your recently installed air conditioner, and hiring professional HVAC installation and regular maintenance can be of help. Similarly, if you notice various signs your conditioner needs repair, don’t hesitate to hire expert services.
