It makes sense that homeowners would pay attention when the HVAC starts to malfunction given how crucial a system it is. Is the air coming out of your HVAC system chilly when it should be warm, or warm when it should be cool? Is it blowing too weakly, changing modes erratically, or generating odd noises? All of these are indications that your HVAC system needs to be inspected and perhaps fixed.
EVAPORATOR COIL INSPECTION
Your evaporator coil may be malfunctioning if your home is humid despite the AC being on. This is a more significant problem that needs an HVAC expert’s assistance. Your home will feel stuffy and uncomfortable if the evaporator coil is not functioning properly since it removes moisture from the air.
MAINTAIN LOW UTILITY BILLS
Higher utility bill costs are typical in areas with more harsh climates. Your HVAC system may be damaged or be too old to function properly if you see a sudden surge in utility costs or a slow increase. By avoiding frequent thermostat adjustments, replacing your air filters, and calling for regular maintenance, you can reduce your utility costs. All year long, 68 to 70 degrees is ideal.
SEARCH FOR DUST OR ICE BUILDUP INDICATORS
Finally, keep an eye out for accumulation where it shouldn’t be. The first typical issue is dust accumulation inside your heater or air conditioner, particularly the air conditioner. The second concern is that the AC coolant lines become overly cold and begin to create ice, which has a detrimental effect on performance. Look for indications of ice buildup inside the HVAC system (such as accumulation of freezer frost) or on the metal coolant pipes next to the outdoor unit.
KEEP THE SYSTEM CLEAN
It’s crucial to maintain the area around any outside air conditioning unit clean. This entails getting rid of any material, including leaves or branches, that can obstruct ventilation. Make sure that nothing, such as a fence or shrub, is blocking the unit itself as well. Maintaining a clean, clutter-free AC unit will promote optimum performance and help to avoid issues.
The exterior unit may not come to mind when considering HVAC problems, but this component of your system is crucial because it serves as the main hub for airflow in your house. Your HVAC system is frequently located outside, where many types of debris can impair the cooling and air quality of the system. Branch and leaf debris might become lodged inside the appliance. Cleaning up the area around and inside the unit will keep it operating more effectively. To keep the HVAC system operating at its best, remove all the trash by opening the condenser unit. We also advise trimming any trees close to the outside unit of any overgrown vegetation.
VERIFY THAT THE BREAKER BOX IS WORKING CORRECTLY
After a storm, you occasionally might not have been aware that you lost electricity. Your air conditioning won’t function without power. Make sure the unit has electricity by immediately checking the breaker box. The problem might be resolved by flicking a switch. To make sure there are no electrical issues, you must reset the circuit breaker if it has tripped. Calling a professional to fix your electrical issues can help you prevent hurting yourself or your house.
Check the breaker box if your HVAC has recently ceased operating. When the electricity is restored after a power outage, the HVAC system may not have turned on. Your HVAC system could not be receiving power right now if your breaker was tripped or if you recently experienced a blackout or brownout. Turn the HVAC breaker completely off and then back on. Then determine if your HVAC is operating normally once again by checking the thermostat.
KEEP THE AIR VENTS CLEAN
Now, look at the vents within your home. Most home vents are located in the walls, close to the ceiling, and we frequently overlook them. However, just like an overstuffed dryer lint trap, when those vents become clogged with dust on the registers, they can be dangerous. Clean your indoor vent registers by using a duster or cloth on each vent (we recommend wearing face protection throughout this process). If you notice obstacles in the duct, you should also think about having it cleaned.
Additionally, you might discover that some of your air vents are closed, blocking air intake or stopping the circulation of air from certain areas. Open these to enhance the ventilation, energy efficiency, and HVAC system performance in your home.
VERIFY THAT THERE’S NO LEAKAGE
Another frequent issue that can make your HVAC system work harder than required is leaking. Be cautious to look for leaks around your windows and doors if you think there may be one. By keeping an eye out for cracks or holes, you may also examine the ducts for leaks.
REPLACE THE AIR FILTER
A filthy or clogged air filter is one of the most frequent causes of HVAC issues. If you haven’t changed your air filter in a while, it’s probably full of dust and other debris. As a result, your system may have to work more than necessary and ventilation may be restricted. Make sure to periodically check your air filter and replace it as necessary to prevent this. A clogged air filter is typically inexpensive and simple to replace.
EXAMINE YOUR THERMOSTAT
The thermostat could be the issue more often than you realize. Check for a loose connection or first replace the batteries. The thermostat should be the first item you examine if the HVAC system won’t turn on. A functioning HVAC system is ensured by knowing if the thermostat is set properly. Check to see if the thermostat is powered and if your system is having trouble beginning or is starting slowly. Check your thermostat frequently to discover whether it’s the source of your HVAC issues. If the temperature inside does not match the thermostat, your system could not be working properly.
SET THE THERMOSTAT TO “FAN ONLY”
Now listen while using the fan-only setting. Your ventilation system can still be operating correctly even if your heater or air conditioner isn’t working. Feel the room-temperature air erupting from the vents while you wait for the fan to turn on. You get consistently filtered and cycled air thanks to this. If the fan setting is ineffective, that may be the cause of your issue. If the fan-only option solves the issue, the heating or cooling equipment itself is probably at blame.
For additional assistance with HVAC troubleshooting, simply contact Korycki Mechanical Inc for the best HVAC services in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, Canada.
