To maintain a comfortable home environment, a properly-working HVAC system is essential. Many people take their heater and air conditioner for granted and only notice them when they’re not working properly.
As a homeowner, it’s important to know the basics of HVAC maintenance so that if things go wrong, you can try to fix it yourself. Of course, there are some problems that need professional help, but if you’re experiencing issues with your HVAC system, there are many things you can do to troubleshoot the problem and get your home back to normal.
#1. Uneven Heating or Cooling
If you’ve noticed that some rooms of your home are significantly warmer or colder than others, even when the HVAC system is running, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Check your air filters. If air filters are dirty or clogged, they can restrict airflow, which leads to uneven temperature distribution throughout your home. In order to improve your home’s air circulation, air filters should be cleaned or replaced regularly.
- Check for blocked vents. When curtains, furniture, or other objects are obstructing the supply or return vents, air cannot flow properly, making the HVAC system more effective in some areas than others.
- If your thermostat is placed in direct sunlight, drafts, or heat sources, it may take inaccurate temperature readings and function improperly for the actual temperature of your home.
If you’ve tried all these tips and your HVAC system is still heating or cooling your home unevenly, contact a professional HVAC technician for further help.
#2. HVAC System Not Turning On
If your HVAC system refuses to turn on, leaving your house uncomfortably hot or cold, try these troubleshooting steps:
- First, check the power supply. Make sure the HVAC system is receiving power by checking your home’s circuit breaker and ensuring the power switch is turned on.
- If the power supply is not the issue, the next step is to check the thermostat. Verify that it’s set to the correct temperature and is in the correct mode (cooling in the summer and heating in the winter). If your thermostat is battery-powered, replace the batteries.
- You should also check your home’s air filters. When filters are severely clogged, it can trigger safety mechanisms that prevent the HVAC system from turning on. If the air filter is in bad shape, clean or replace it.
If, after trying these troubleshooting steps, your HVAC system is still not turning on, the problem may be due to something more serious. A professional HVAC technician can diagnose and fix the issue to get everything back in working order.
#3. Strange Noises Coming From System
If you hear banging, clanging, grinding, or squealing coming from your HVAC system, troubleshoot the issue by taking these steps:
- First, listen closely. See if you can identify the source of the noise by paying attention to its source. If there are loose components or debris in the vents, they can move around when the air is turned on and cause strange noises.
- If the noises are particularly alarming, turn off your HVAC system to prevent further damage and contact a professional technician.
#4. Troubleshoot Leaking or Dripping Water
When water is leaking around your HVAC system, it can be indicative of problems that require attention.
- Check the condensate drain line. If it’s clogged, water can back up and leak. Carefully clear any blockages and see if that fixes the problem.
- Additionally, refrigerant leaks can also cause water to leak from your system. If your refrigerant levels are low and you suspect a leak, get help from a professional technician. They can safely handle the refrigerant leak and recharge the system.
#5. Continuous Cycling On and Off
If your HVAC system turns on and off frequently, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Verify the air filters are not clogged. Clogged filters can cause your system to overheat and perform improperly, so clean or replace them as needed.
- If your thermostat is calibrated incorrectly or is located near a heat source, it can read your home’s temperature inaccurately and lead to short cycling.
- Low levels of refrigerant can also cause short cycling. Refrigerant issues are harder and more dangerous to fix on your own, so if this is the case, enlist the help of a certified HVAC technician.
HVAC Maintenance from R&D Heating and Air
If you’ve tried all these troubleshooting tips and your HVAC system still isn’t functioning properly, it’s time to call in the professionals at R&D Heating and Air. As a fully licensed and insured HVAC maintenance company, we provide high-quality services to all our customers throughout Northern Utah. Our technicians can repair, maintain, and replace heaters and air conditioners, clean out your air ducts, repair gas fireplaces, and even fix appliances.
To ensure your home’s comfort, contact R&D Heating and Air to schedule a service appointment today. We can’t wait to hear from you!
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