Home is the place where you should feel most at ease. Your HVAC system plays a huge role in the comfort of your home. Your HVAC system is responsible for heating, cooling, and ventilation. Businesses, warehouses, and other structures also require central heat and air systems for temperature consistency. A properly working system greatly impacts things like productivity, safety, energy costs – and of course, comfort! Nobody knows this better than residents of the Tampa Bay area.
Does Your HVAC System Require Maintenance?
Signing up for a preventative maintenance program may seem unnecessary, but it is crucial to ensure that the system is functioning properly. Even the most well-maintained equipment needs repairs from time to time. Particularly, if you experience any of the following signs:
Strange Smell
Unpleasant odors or the occurrence of poor indoor air quality can point to unforeseen issues. This is one of the most noticeable signs that your HVAC system may need repair. Odor-causing problems not only affect the home but also your health. Mold and mildew can form in ducts and vents, wreaking havoc on those sensitive to allergens. Serious mold infestations are dangerous and should be handled properly. Your system must be checked by a professional as soon as you notice any odd smells coming from your vents.
Unusual Sounds
Another sign that you might need to hire an HVAC professional is if you hear strange noises coming from your system. Minor popping and hissing sounds are healthy, but if it becomes disruptive there may be a cause for concern. There are a few reasons why the system may make unfamiliar sounds, including increased air pressure, loose parts, refrigerant leaks, or worn belts. If you experience concerning HVAC system sounds, call the professionals at Comfort All-Stars to take a look.
Inconsistency from the Airflow System
An uneven amount of heat and cool air throughout your home is also an alarming sign of a failing unit. Many times, this is the result of something simple, such as a failure to change the system’s air filter, a bad thermostat, or even a low battery. Blocked vents or registers are also common culprits of inconsistent airflow that are easily overlooked. These are all easy fixes, but there are times when an HVAC technician must be called. Low coolant, dirty coils, and sluggish blower motors should be remedied by a trusted professional.
Loss of System Efficiency
The loss of system efficiency is a common occurrence when your central heat and air system is starting to fail. Not only will your system fail to run properly, but you will also begin to see an increase in your energy costs. It is inevitable, that a system will lose its efficiency over time. This can be a major problem in areas with subtropical climates – like Tampa! If your unit is outdated, the best option is to replace it with a newer, high-efficiency model. Other factors like clogged air filters and leaky vents can also affect system efficiency.
Prevent HVAC Failures
If you’ve noticed any of these early warning signs, it’s best not to ignore them. Prevention is better than having to pay for costly repairs. Ignoring the warning signs can turn into quite a headache for property owners. As a review, listed below are some of the most common reasons for HVAC system failure:
Dirty and Clogged System Filters
Air filters that are worn out or have accumulated dirt and debris can force your air conditioning unit to work overtime. This may result in a sudden increase in your energy bill. Routine replacement of your system filters will ensure the most favorable HVAC system performance. It will also improve the IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) of your home by keeping dust, allergens, and other air pollutants at bay.
Poor Maintenance
One of the best things you can do for your home’s HVAC system is to invest in scheduled maintenance. Keep in mind, that regularly scheduled service and tune-ups can prevent most HVAC performance problems. Certified service technicians are trained to easily identify and correct issues as they arise, saving customers money in the long run.
Malfunctioning of Thermostat
When problems arise, it’s easy to assume the issue is with your actual HVAC system. As previously mentioned, one problem that is easily overlooked is a faulty thermostat. The thermostat is the regulator of your central heat and air. It controls the timing and the amount of hot or cold air your unit should produce. So, when your thermostat is malfunctioning, your house may suffer from intermittent temperature fluctuations, impacting your indoor temperature.
Improper Balance of Air
An HVAC system should provide heated or cooled air with balance. The air must travel through a series of ducts with enough force to reach each room. Problems in ductwork can impede air distribution. This reduces airflow in one line, which allows more air to flow to other areas of your home. This will cause certain rooms to cool or heat faster than others.
Leaky Refrigerant
This problem is not only a hazard to your health but also puts a strain on your wallet. If the temperature in your home is not what you are used to, then something might be wrong. Coolants, or refrigerants, are liquid agents that are necessary for proper air conditioning. These agents are contained within the coils of an HVAC system. When the coils have a leak and your unit doesn’t have enough coolant, it can’t do its job properly. Low levels cause the inside of your home to be too hot and the condenser to work overtime. Over time, this will lead to more system problems and additional expenses.
Know When to Call a Professional
By understanding what problems may arise with your heating and cooling system, you can take safe and precautionary measures to ensure optimal working conditions. You can also avoid major problems before they occur. Keep in mind that you should be looking for signs and maintaining your HVAC system and if you notice something strange, call your HVAC professional. If you’re in Tampa or the greater Tampa Bay area, give Comfort All-Stars a call today for a consultation.