Let’s face it: your HVAC system is the hidden workhorse of your home or office. That is why you are not sweating through summer and shivering in winter and the air you breathe is fresh and clean. However, the best systems in place are also known to have their share of problems every once in a while. The good news? Most of the frequent HVAC issues are not as serious as you might expect once you have been given clues on what to check. Below are five more common complaints and how to respond to them expertly.
5 Common Issues with HVAC Systems
Dirty Air
Imagine that you had to breathe through a straw; that is not something you would consider as easy to do, would it? Well, that’s pretty much what your HVAC system has to go through when it is handling a dirty air filter. Bypassed filters starve your system of air which means it will have to work much harder than it should. The result? One day you realize your energy bills are through the roof, and dust and other allergens are circulating throughout your home.
The Fix: As a practice, remember to change the air filters every 3 months or more if you have pets or allergies at home. It only takes a few minutes, costs no money, and helps keep your system running smoothly while maintaining fresh-smelling air. I promise, that not only will your HVAC systems love you for it, but your sinuses will too.
Refrigerant Leaks
In addition, if your HVAC system is not cooling as it used to, then there is a high likelihood that you may be having a refrigerant leak. It stresses your system to produce that low temperature—which is a clear sign that your refrigerant levels are dangerously low; problems can worsen and require expensive indoor plumbing solutions.
The Fix: This one is better left to professionals Since refrigerant leak detection and repair call for specific instruments, the homeowner should not hesitate to call a licensed technician.
Thermostat Troubles
To tell the truth, your thermostat is the command center of your HVAC system. If it is on the fritz, it is getting hot on one side or both, it won’t start, or shut down.
The Fix: Beginners should look into batteries and check that the device is at the proper temperature. If none of that works you might want to try getting a smart thermostat. Not only will it provide you with more accurate control but also save you quite a lot of operational costs in terms of energy.
Clogged Condensate Drain
A Condensate Drain is a pipe that removes residual liquid from your HVAC system also known as a Furnace. But when it gets filled with dirt or algae, water has nowhere else to go but to spill over and this can cause leakage or even worsen to causing water damage.
The Fix: It is recommended to clean the drain line frequently by either running a wire through it or by washing it with vinegar and water. It’s one very easy exercise that could have saved you from a big problem (and possibly a lot of strain) in the future.