No system in your home affects comfort levels more than your heating and cooling systems. In the hotter months, your AC provides cool relief from the heat, and in the chilly season, your heating unit keeps you warm and cozy. Unfortunately, HVAC systems occasionally fail. But that doesn’t mean you always need to summon a repair expert.
You can resolve some HVAC problems yourself and save considerable time and money. If you aren’t sure exactly how to repair your heating and air conditioning unit, don’t worry: We’ve compiled a handful of common problems and their solutions.
AC is Blowing Warm or Hot Air
An air conditioner that’s set at the correct temperature and is in perfect shape should blow cold air. If your AC is blowing hot air instead of cool air, a few things could be the problem:
- Your Thermostat is on the Wrong Setting – The fix could be as simple as changing the thermostat setting. So before you take any steps, make sure it isn’t accidentally set to heat. If it is, just switch it back to the “cool” setting.
- Dirty Air Filter – The air filter removes solid contaminants such as smoke, dust, and pollen from the air we breathe to ensure better air quality. When these pollutants build up on the filter, they prevent your AC from circulating refreshing air around your home. Clean or replace your air filter and test your AC again.
- Clogged AC Drain Line – A blocked condensate drain line could also be the culprit. If you notice water puddles in your AC’s drainpipe, standing water around the unit, or a full AC condensate pan, then there could be a blockage. Turn off the AC, connect a vacuum to the end of an AC drainpipe, remove the debris causing the block, then flush the pipe.
Thermostat isn’t Working Right
It’s pretty frustrating when you adjust your thermostat setting, but the temperatures fail to change. The thermostat is the brain of your entire system, so if it isn’t working right, the entire system will be problematic. Here are common causes and their solutions:
- The Battery Could be Dead – If the thermostat has a battery, replace it with a new one before taking any other measures.
- Consider the Thermostat’s Location – Wrong thermostat placement can affect its performance. Installing it close to a lamp, window facing the sun, or near the kitchen can confuse it, and it won’t calculate the home’s temperature correctly. One solution is to put up curtains to block the sunlight.
- Dirt Build Up Inside Thermostat – Sometimes, dirt, soot, or dust can envelope the internal components of the thermostat and cause it to work incorrectly. You can remove the cover, examine the inside, and use a soft brush to gently clean the dirt.
AC Unit is Louder than Normal
Has your air conditioner been sounding louder than usual? Well, modern ACs are quieter than ever. So when you hear exceptionally loud noises, know there’s trouble. Here are a few causes and fixes:
- Broken Component Inside Unit – If you hear a banging noise coming from the AC, there could be a loose or broken part inside it—a broken crankshaft on the outdoor condenser or a broken fan motor in the indoor unit.
- Debris Inside Unit – If you’re hearing a buzzing noise in the outdoor unit. Check whether there is debris trapped inside. Make sure you also cut back any vegetation growing too close to the unit.
AC noises vary from rattles, bangs, groans, clicks to screeches, and each one indicates a different issue. So it’s best to contact a professional whenever you start hearing weird noises.
Some Rooms Are Colder (or Hotter) Than Others
Are some parts of your home always hotter or colder than others no matter what you set your thermostat to? Here are some reasons:
- Blocked Vents – Air ducts are like the lungs of your air conditioning system. All air moves through them before reaching the rooms in your house. If they are blocked or damaged, they won’t provide proper airflow. Check whether the vents are blocked by dust, pet hair, or debris, then clean the grates. Note that drapes and furniture could also cause blockages.
- Dirty Air Filter – Again, your air filter could be the reason behind uneven temperatures in your home. If you swapped out your filters more than two months ago, it’s time to replace them. Dirty filters impact the airflow to your unit, making it struggle to work efficiently.
Troubleshoot HVAC Problems Like a Pro
Although HVAC systems are sensitive, there are still a few problems you can troubleshoot and fix on your own. For instance, you can change air filters, clean the clogged drain line, adjust thermostat settings and change batteries, remove debris, and clean the vents.
However, other complex HVAC repair tasks are better left to the professionals. To prevent any breakdowns, improve indoor air quality, and extend the lifespan of your unit, make sure you schedule a HVAC tune-up at least twice a year. Give us a call to speak to professionals with HVAC certifications.
