Prevent These 12 Common HVAC Concerns This Summer
During the hottest part of the summer, you count on your HVAC system to keep your home cool and safe from the worst of the heat. That being said, your air conditioner may experience trouble as usage goes up as the thermometer does. Here are 12 frequent HVAC issues in the summer months to help you avoid or repair them as needed.
1. Poorly Adjusted Thermostat
Incorrect thermostat settings can cause performance issues and a spike in energy costs. If you encounter these issues, check your thermostat. If someone else at home keeps cranking the settings back and forth, it’s more of a hassle to balance comfort and energy efficiency.
2. Too Much Humidity
Excessive indoor moisture levels makes the air feel thick and promotes mold or mildew. An air conditioner lowers the temperature of and dehumidifies the air simultaneously, but this may not always be adequate in especially warm climates. Setting up a dehumidifier will often help resolve the problem unless your air conditioner has a hidden issue that can encourage humidity levels to get worse.
3. Blocked Condensate Drain
The condensate drain removes the excess moisture produced by the cooling process. An obstruction in these drain lines can result in water damage or mold gaining a foothold. It helps to regularly inspect and clear out this drain if necessary to avoid problems like clogs or water damage.
4. Reduced Airflow
Airflow may drop if you have a clog in your system’s air filter, damaged ductwork or an obstructed condensing unit. Preventive maintenance such as changing the air filter, keeping all air registers open and clearing any weeds from around the outdoor unit will help restore proper airflow. A constant stream of problems might mean there are significant concerns like ductwork obstructions or a faulty compressor, which will all need professional servicing.
5. Refrigerant Leak
The supply of refrigerant is the key ingredient in air conditioning. A leak lowers the system’s available supply and reduces cooling efficiency, making making your unit work harder and longer even when the cooling effectiveness falls away. Refrigerant problems are more frequent in older units but can occur in any system under much higher usage. Sigs you may have a leak include warm air blowing from your vents, sizzling or bubbling sounds, and higher-than-expected energy costs. Only HVAC professionals can handle the problem because working with refrigerant requires EPA certification.
6. Ice and Freezing Problems with Your Air Conditioner
A frozen air conditioner often comes from low airflow or a refrigerant leak, either of which may prevent your HVAC system from efficiently exchanging hot and cold air. A large amount of ice on the coil messes with the cooling process and could even cause long-term damage. Consistent maintenance is essential to prevent freezing and protect efficient cooling.
7. The Cooling Cycle Starts and Stops Too Often
Short cycling is when your air conditioner starts and stops too many times. This is a sign of an improperly sized air conditioner, clogged air filter or electrical damage. Sudden short cycling weakens efficiency and can shorten your unit’s life span, so call a technician to diagnose the cause and suggest a solution.
8. No Power Is Making It to the Air Conditioner
If an AC will not turn on, inspect for a flipped breaker or blown fuse before anything else. If this isn’t the reason for the problem, there could be a problem with the unit’s capacitors or contactors, which are needed to start up the unit. Contact a professional to arrange a repair appointment.
9. Constantly Tripped Breakers
Staying on the subject of circuit breakers, you shouldn’t have to constantly reset them. The HVAC system should be on a dedicated circuit that is appropriately sized to work with this kind of equipment. Regular circuit breaker resets can be a safety hazard, as it’s an electrical issue that needs prompt attention.
10. Clogged Condenser Coils
The condenser coils on the outdoor unit of the system are constantly left to the elements, so dirt and debris may collect over time. Cobwebs, dirt and dust, grass clippings and other outdoor debris cover up the unit, hurting its ability to get rid of heat and worsening daily wear and tear. Rinse these coils every now and then with a soft spray from your garden hose to help maintain system efficiency.
11. Odd Noises
A barrage of loud noises coming from the air conditioning is a common sign that something isn’t right. Screeching could point to a belt that needs replacement, while rattling or thumping sounds may mean loose or broken components. Don’t ignore these sounds, as they could leave you with widespread problems, more expensive repairs or premature system failure if not fixed immediately.
12. Odd Smells
If you pick up gross smells coming from somewhere in the HVAC system, investigate further to find out where they’re coming from. A burnt smell can come from electrical fires or an overheating motor, while a musty smell usually points back to mold growth somewhere in the system. Strange smells often need prompt attention to prevent health problems and performance issues.
We Are Dedicated to Your Comfort
At Winnipeg Supply Service Experts, nothing is more important to us than your comfort and peace of mind. Our certified technicians deliver fast, but long-lasting solutions to all your comfort problems, backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not entirely happy with the final product, we’ll make it right. So, the next time your air conditioner starts short cycling or making funny noises, contact us for Expert service that always exceeds expectations.
