As a homeowner, your HVAC might not be on your radar until something goes awry. Whether it’s strange noises coming from your furnace or a glitching thermostat, several common HVAC problems can occur throughout a system’s lifetime.
At ACS, we encourage home and business owners to always keep their HVAC health top of mind. However, some HVAC hiccups are inevitable. Luckily, most of these common HVAC problems are quick fixes and can be handled by yourself or one of our HVAC-certified technicians. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the five most common HVAC problems and how to fix them.
Clogged Air Filters
Upon installing your home HVAC system, you’ll want to get into the habit of changing your air filters regularly. Clogged air filters will wreak havoc on your HVAC, as blockages cause restricted airflow, worsened unit efficiency, and sometimes even system shutdowns. Not to mention, any buildup of dirt, pet dander, and other pollutants could trigger respiratory problems and allergies throughout your household. At ACS, our HVAC specialists recommend changing your air filter every 30-60 days to maintain clean air and respiratory wellness.
Broken Thermostat
Your thermostat is the communicator between you and your HVAC system. So, when your thermostat starts to malfunction, it can significantly disrupt heating and cooling throughout your home. Depending on your thermostat model, the root of your thermostat’s problems could be misprogrammed settings, faulty components, or even dead batteries. If you have a programmable thermostat, your problem likely stems from dead batteries, which must be replaced periodically. A good rule of thumb is double-checking your owner’s manual if you notice an issue. However, it may be time to call a local air specialist for thermostat maintenance if it continues to malfunction.
Water Leaks
Both air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensation throughout daily usage. This condensate then travels through drain pipes and out of your home. However, your system will leak if these drain lines become clogged or cracked. From cracks in your walls to ruptures in your interior structure, a water leak can cause severe damage to your home. What you can do as a homeowner to prevent these detrimental leaks is schedule preventative HVAC maintenance. As ACS, we offer commercial and residential maintenance plans that cover whole system inspections. But if it’s too late for preventive measures, call a service technician right away to address the source of the water leak and discuss repair options.
Dirty Evaporator Coils
Like air filters, your HVAC system’s evaporator coils are susceptible to blockages and buildup. When dirt and debris clog your evaporator coils, your system must work extra hard to heat or cool your home. In doing so, your unit’s efficiency will progressively deteriorate, increasing utility bills and system repairs. If you experience dirty evaporator coils, the logical next step is to call your local air specialist. A technician will safely hose off your outdoor coil after powering off the condenser to prevent any potential moisture leaks. If, however, the damage is too far gone, you may need to replace your system altogether.
Abnormal Noises and Smells
While it’s normal for a heating or cooling system to make some noise during everyday operation, certain sounds are red flags. If you hear whining, rattling, or squealing coming from your HVAC unit, you likely have a bigger problem on your hands. Typically, abnormal noises result from airflow issues, dirty heating and cooling systems, or broken fan switches. In this case, you’ll want to call in professional help to assess the issue. Similarly, smells also indicate HVAC problems that require attention. From mold infestations to electrical failure, any odor from your HVAC system should sound off alarms in your head, as well-operating systems are odorless.
HVAC Heating and Cooling with ACS
At ACS, we are committed to helping you get the most out of your heating and cooling systems. Whether it’s repairs, replacement, installation, or routine maintenance, no heating job is too big or too small for our team of certified HVAC technicians. If you’re looking for a heat pump replacement or repair, connect with our team today for premium HVAC maintenance in Covington, Milledgeville, and surrounding areas.
