Aug 8, 2024 | Michael Jestadt

Common HVAC Problems and Solutions

HVAC systems usually work well, but they can still have problems. When your HVAC system breaks, it can be stressful and needs immediate fixation. In places where hot summers are prevalent, if your HVAC system stops working, it might even cause you to close your workplace or business because the heat can be too much to handle. In this article, we have mentioned some common HVAC problems you encounter while having an HVAC system and solutions to avoid high power bills and future problems.

The Most Common HVAC Issues

Below are the common problems most people face when using an HVAC device in their home or workplace.

1. Uneven Air Distribution

We might have noticed that one room in the house is warmer or colder than the other room. This is due to an uneven distribution of the air. Several things affect how your HVAC unit heats or cools different parts of your home, like the size of the room, air vents, windows, and the outside temperature. To fix this, cover large windows with sun-blocking curtains or blinds, check the insulation in each room, and add dampers to control your HVAC system. These steps will help ensure that every room has the same temperature.

2. Thermostat Malfunctioning

If your furnace or air conditioning system isn’t working well, the problem might be in the thermostat. A damaged thermostat can turn your HVAC system on and off randomly or stop working completely. Check your owner’s manual to ensure the thermostat is set up correctly and see if the batteries need to be changed. If it still doesn’t work, call an HVAC contractor to check it.

3. Dirty filters

A dirty air filter is a common problem that influences the performance of a household HVAC system, but it’s very easy to fix. You should change your air filter regularly. Depending on your local air quality and if you have pets, you might need to change it every month. Filters come in different grades, so check the MERV rating on the filter. The higher the number, the better the air filtration will be.

4. Dirty coils

The evaporator coil in your air conditioner or heat pump is an important part that is responsible for cooling or heating the room. If it gets dirty, your HVAC system won’t work well. You can clean a dirty coil on an outdoor unit, like a heat pump, with a hose. For indoor units, like air conditioners, a trained service expert should be required to clean the coils.

5. Frozen Evaporator Coils

Outdoor AC units contain condenser coils, and indoor units contain evaporator coils. These Evaporator coils collect heat from inside your home and can freeze if they get too cold. When they freeze, your unit takes a lot of stress, work harder, or might stop working completely. Cold weather can sometimes be responsible for this condition, but it usually happens because of poor airflow or leaking refrigerant.

6. Dirty Ductwork

When dirt, dust, and grime accumulate in your ductwork, it can spread all over your home. This decreases the air quality, which can lead to breathing problems for people with allergies or asthma. Regular cleaning is important for better air quality. You can clean the ductwork yourself or hire a professional, but make sure to do it regularly.

7. Leakage of Water

A clogged condensate drain line can cause puddles around your HVAC system. In summer, your air conditioner removes extra humidity from the air. The water collects in a drain pan and then goes outside through a drain pipe. If this pipe gets clogged, water can spill onto the floor, which can cause damage and mold. Make sure that there are no water leaks by regularly inspecting the AC.

8. High Energy Bills

Generally, the energy bills will be higher during summer because your HVAC cooling system works harder to keep your home cool. However, high energy bills can also indicate problems with your HVAC system. First,  you need to check why your energy bills might be higher than last summer, like higher outdoor temperatures or more people using energy in your home. If these chances are less, your high energy bills might be due to your faulty HVAC system. Even minor issues like dirty filters can make your system work harder, raising energy bills.

9. Problems with Pilot Light and Ignition

The ignition system in your furnace works in a specific way. If any part of it is not working well, your furnace may be unable to ignite. The problem could be with the pilot light, flame sensors, or burners. A professional should inspect and fix the device. Call an HVAC expert who can safely handle the gas and high-voltage electrical parts if your furnace won’t light.

10. Tripped Circuit Breakers and Blown Fuses

Tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses are common if your heating or cooling system is running continuously every time during extreme weather. A clogged air filter might be one of the reasons for this problem because the system has to work harder to reach the set temperature. Try replacing the filter to see if it fixes the issue. If it doesn’t, contact an HVAC technician for the inspection.

11. Negative Pressure

Negative pressure is observed when the air pressure outside of your home is more than inside of the home. This can cause problems with household temperatures and the efficiency of the device. With negative pressure, unfiltered and unconditioned air gets pulled into your home, which thereby reduces comfort and air quality. Many things can cause this issue, like fan speed or cracks in the vents. Since this issue is very complex, it’s better to have an expert to handle it.

12. Unusual Noises

If your HVAC system makes strange or loud noises, you should have a reliable technician check it out. Loose or broken parts make banging or rattling noises, while a hissing noise can be a refrigerant leak. Other noises like screeching, clicking, and rattling also suggest a problem that needs to be inspected. It’s better to check your HVAC device regularly to avoid such issues.

Prevent Common HVAC Problems by Regular Maintenance

Even with good care, HVAC systems can still have problems over time. Regular maintenance is important to reduce issues and avoid serious damage. You should have HVAC tune-ups twice a year, once before the cooling and heating seasons. If you hear a small noise or leak, you might wait until it worsens before calling a professional. However, getting the HVAC issue checked and fixed immediately can prevent more damage and costly repairs. Stay comfortable year-round with Smart Heating and Air Conditioning. Our expert team is ready to handle all your HVAC needs. Whether routine maintenance, urgent repairs, or a new installation, we ensure your system runs smoothly. Contact us today to schedule your service and experience top-notch comfort and efficiency!

Related Posts

05 Sep
Benefits of Upgrading to new HVAC System - Smart Heating and Air Conditioning
Benefits of upgrading to a New HVAC System

An HVAC system is important equipment for better comfort in our homes. People started using them decades ago. So, to…

Read More
15 Aug
types of hvac systems - smart heating and air conditioning
Types of HVAC Systems

HVAC systems are important for keeping your home comfortable. If you need to buy or replace your HVAC system, it's…

Read More
09 Aug
Importance of HVAC Maintenance - Smart Heating and Air Conditioning
Importance of HVAC Maintenance

HVAC systems can be an expensive and important investment for homeowners. Maintaining an HVAC system is similar to maintaining a…

Read More
08 Aug
Common HVAC Problems and Solutions - Smart Heating and Air Conditioning
Common HVAC Problems and Solutions

HVAC systems usually work well, but they can still have problems. When your HVAC system breaks, it can be stressful…

Read More