Most HVAC problems fall under two categories: one that can be taken care of by the homeowner and two, requiring expert help. Falling in the first category are problems like the dirty air filters, cracked drain pan, drained thermostat batteries, and so on. These are relatively simple problems with straightforward solutions. Today, however, we are dealing with the second category of problems, which you cannot do without the technician’s help. Obviously, these issues are tricky, and your only hope is a knowledgeable and trained HVAC contractor.
A majority of the problems can be resolved with the annual maintenance of the heating and cooling system. Nonetheless, now and then, some issues may still arise. This doesn’t mean that the maintenance was not done properly. It just means that the problem is new.
7 Most Common HVAC Problems That Require Expert Repairs
1. Strange Noises Coming From The Unit – When the heating and cooling system runs, it is almost noiseless or accompanied by a gentle hum. If suddenly you start hearing rattling, groaning, screeching, or heavy vibrating sounds coming from it, its time for expert help. The screeching or squealing sound could indicate motor troubles. The rattling or strong vibrating sound may point towards a broken or loose part, and the groaning sound may have its origination in some other mechanical problem. No matter which unusual sound the unit is making, it involves opening up the system to identify its source correctly. Now, a unit as complicated as the HVAC system is not easy to open and put back together. Only a person with the requisite knowledge can do it properly and adequately.
2. A Breaker That Trips Frequently – Once in a while, if the circuit breaker trips, that’s normal. It could be because of a power surge. The HVAC system has an inbuilt safety mechanism. Herein, the circuit breaker trips to protect the unit from the ill effects of a power surge. High voltage can fry the unit, by tripping the breaker, the power to the unit is cut off, and so it remains protected and safe. Pushing the breaker switch to the “On” position will have your system working as before. However, if the circuit breaker is frequently tripping and for reasons other than a power surge, you have a problem on hand. The problem could be that your system is working under strain or has developed some electrical issues. When the system works under strain, the circuit breaker trips to prevent its overheating, and the same is the case with electrical issues. In either of these cases, only a technician can correctly figure out the problem and resolve it.
3. Ignition Problems – Various reasons can cause the ignition to malfunction. It can happen because of normal wear and tear or because of some trouble with the gas supply. When dealing with such problems, it is always better to let the experts handle things. Handling high voltage is not a game. It requires technical expertise and knowledge; otherwise, the consequences could be fatal. Natural gas, in the same way, can cause perilous leaks. An expert will be able to pinpoint the problem and render corrective action with full precautions.
4. Dirty Coils – Dirty evaporator coils and condenser coils reduce the efficiency of the HVAC system. Due to this, your energy bills spiral out of control, and even the home does not feel half as comfortable. They also make the system work under pressure, which can lead to overheating. Though the coils are given a thorough cleaning at the time of maintenance, yet sometimes the maintenance schedule gets disrupted. At such times if the problem arises due to dirty coils, you should ask the technician to attend to them. Cleaning the coils is not something that can be done with half baked knowledge. It has to be a precise and thorough job, one that requires proper equipment and detailed knowledge.
5. Water Leaks – The air conditioner produces a lot of condensation as it cools the warm moisture-laden air. Usually, this condensation flows outdoors through the drain line without causing spillage anywhere. However, sometimes leaks may crop in the HVAC unit in the most unlikely places like the collector box or the heat exchanger. It is always best to let a knowledgeable technician take care of such problems as your limited knowledge may cause more harm than good.
6. A Blower That Runs Constantly – If the blower fan is not set on the “On” position, it should switch off when not needed. But sometimes that may not happen, and consequently, the HVAC runs continuously. Only a trained technician can help identify whether the culprit is a failing component or a relay that has got stuck. It could also be a problem with the sensors. Whatever be the exact cause, you cannot precisely point out the problem and rectify it. Only a trained technician can drill down to the real cause and take corrective action.
7. Faulty Thermostat – Other than drained batteries, the homeowners can rarely figure out what is wrong with the thermostat. A bad or faulty thermostat can cease the functioning of the HVAC system. Most thermostat problems occur because it has been installed improperly or because a component inside it has malfunctioned. In either case, only an experienced technician can identify the exact problem. Once they know what is wrong with the thermostat, they will take remedial action. Remember fiddling with the thermostat without proper knowledge can fry it. So it is best to refrain from experimenting with it. A technician is trained to handle such HVAC problems, and so is the best person to take care of them.
In The End
Always try to stick to the maintenance schedule of your HVAC system. Most problems are duly taken care of at the time of maintenance itself. Failing to do that can make issues crop up in the unit. When that happens, always call the HVAC technician to fix them. Only those HVAC problems can be handled as a DIY activity where the manufacturer or the contractor advises. The rest should be left for the experts.
To schedule the routine maintenance of your HVAC, contact the air experts at Aztil Air Conditioning. We serve in West Palm Beach, Florida, and can be reached at +1-888-729-8452.
