Top 10 Common HVAC Issues

The HVAC system, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, are some of the most essential amenities of any home as they keep you comfortable all year round. But like any mechanical system, it encounters problems. 

This blog post will discuss the top 10 issues that you can expect in your HVAC system. We will also provide you with some essential tips on how to troubleshoot problems and provide you with guidance on when it is best to call an HVAC repair technician for help. Read along to learn about the top 10 HVAC issues to expect in your home. 

1. The Heating Component is Not Working

Many HVAC systems nowadays are designed to heat the home during the winter months. As someone living in Alabama, you are probably familiar with the frustration of not having a working heating system in your home during the chilly winter days. 

The first step in troubleshooting this problem is to check your thermostat. Ensure it’s set to the desired temperature and that the fan is set to auto mode. If the issue persists, there may be a problem with your furnace relay switch. In that case, you must contact an HVAC repair technician for assistance.

2. Furnace Relay Switch Problem

The furnace relay switch is a critical component in your HVAC system. It controls the flow of electrical current to various components within the furnace. This function also ensures that the furnace is safe and efficient. 

If the furnace relay switch isn’t working correctly, it will prevent the furnace from turning on, causing significant heating issues. You can troubleshoot the problem by checking the relay switch for any loose wires, corrosion, or burnt connections. If you find any of these problems, it may be an excellent time to call a professional HVAC technician to help replace the faulty switch.

3. A Lack of Cooling 

While most people associate HVAC systems with heating, they are equally important for cooling your home during the hot weather. As your HVAC cooling function is not working as expected, try these easy troubleshooting tips: 

• Clean or replace the air filters
• Adjust the thermostat
• Replace the thermostat’s batteries
• Keep the area around the outdoor unit clean

If the issue persists, you must contact an HVAC professional for an assessment and repair. 

4. Lack of Regular Maintenance 

Another common problem in HVAC systems is a general lack of regular maintenance. HVAC systems are high-dollar investments that require regular maintenance to ensure they are efficient and in the best working order. 

Regular maintenance includes routine checkups, filter changes, lubrication of parts, and general cleaning of the entire unit. Neglecting this maintenance can decrease efficiency, higher energy bills, and even cause system breakdowns. If you want to avoid paying for extra repairs or an early HVAC replacement, we highly recommend getting your HVAC system on a regular maintenance routine. 

5. Refrigerant Leaks 

Air conditioning systems rely heavily on refrigerants to cool the air. Without proper refrigerant fluid levels, the air conditioning system cannot keep up with cooling the home efficiently. One of the most common causes for the refrigerant fluid levels is refrigerant leaks. Refrigerant fluid leaks, reduces the system’s cooling capacity, and can even harm the environment. 

Here are some common signs that there may be a refrigerant leak in your HVAC system: 

• Puddles of water around the AC unit
• Ice on the AC coils, 
• A lack of air flowing through the home
• High energy bills 

If you notice these signs, contact an HVAC professional to fix the leak. 

6. Thermostat Issues

Proper temperature control is fundamental to the comfort of your home. Thermostat issues can come about due to incorrect settings, malfunctioning systems, or just poor placement. Not only do these issues lead to discomfort, but they will also lead to a waste of energy. Make sure that your thermostat is regularly calibrated to prevent these issues. 

7. Electrical Problems

HVAC systems aren’t just mechanical units but are also complex electrical systems. The electrical components of an HVAC system can develop issues over time. As it works to keep your home comfortable, it may create issues like loose connections, damaged wires, or problems with the electrical controls that can cause it to malfunction. In some cases, electrical malfunctions can lead to the HVAC not working. If you suspect these issues within your HVAC unit, we recommend contacting a technician to inspect and repair the problems immediately.

8. Clogged Condensate Drain 

Air conditioners produce condensate as they cause the air. This condensate drains through a pipe, which can get clogged over time. A clog in a drain line can cause water to back up into the system and cause damage to the AC function. We recommend calling an HVAC technician if you suspect this to be the issue. Regular maintenance should include checking and cleaning the condensate drain to prevent these issues

9. Compressor Problems

The compressor is a critical part of the HVAC unit because it is responsible for pressurizing the refrigerant and pumping it through the system. Without a working compressor, the air conditioning unit will simply not work. Compressor issues can be costly to repair and significantly impact your cooling system efficiency. If you notice that the air conditioner isn’t working as efficiently and your energy bills are climbing monthly, you may have an issue with your compressor.

10. Strange Noises or Odors

Though the work of an HVAC is important, it should never come at the cost of your discomfort or peace. If you notice that your AC is producing weird sounds or odors, there could be a problem with some of its components. 

Worn-out parts and loose components produce odd sounds, while odors could be caused by mold growth or dirty filters. These problems must be identified and addressed before they grow into significant issues that will require costly repairs.

Noticing the issues in your HVAC?

If you believe your HVAC displays one or two of these problems, contact Hansen Super Techs for professional and prompt repair. We provide free estimates and the highest quality services in Baldwin, AL.