I think we have all been there, right? Especially when it is critical to a system like your HVAC. It’s one of those things you do not think about much until it happens to stop working, usually on the hottest or coldest day of the year. And very quickly, it can get pretty expensive, too. But what if you knew some easy steps you could take that would spare you from those headaches and save you a little money on those repair costs?
Here’s a rundown of the 5 HVAC problems you can actually prevent before they turn into a budget-breaking nightmare.
1. Dirty Air Filters Can Choke Your System
You would never think that something as minute as an air filter could cause big issues, right? But it can.
What happens: With time, dust, dirt, and all other debris find their way into your air filters. When it becomes messy, your system has to struggle hard to push the air through your home. This just increases the energy bills and causes your HVAC to overheat or freeze, causing a breakdown.
How to prevent it: The good news? Replacing your filters is one of the easiest ways to keep things running smoothly. Most pros suggest you swap them out every 1-3 months. And hey, if you’ve got pets, or if your house tends to be just a little dustier, you might need to do it more often. It’s a little task with a huge payoff!
2. Leaky Ductwork Wastes Energy
We all understand the annoyance of a dripping faucet, don’t we? Now imagine that same kind of leakage in your ductwork, but instead of the leakage of water, you have leakage of your heated or cooled air.
What happens: Gaps, cracks, or loose connections in your ductwork mean you are losing air. This situation makes your HVAC system work extra hard to keep the temperature at your set level, which results in higher energy expenses and more wear on the equipment.
How to prevent it: Check for duct leaks (or hire someone to do it). Look for signs of leaks with high energy bills or rooms not getting warm enough or too cool. DIY fix: Duct mastic or foil tape to seal the leaks. Call a pro for a more complete fix.
3. Thermostat Troubles Can Throw Everything Off
Do you ever think your house is cooler than it ought to be, but your thermostat says everything is A-OK? Well, there’s probably something wrong with your thermostat.
What happens: You might have a malfunctioning thermostat that is giving you false readings; this sends your HVAC system running to do more or less than it is supposed to, thereby having a knock-on effect on how you feel about your room, and your system might find itself laden with too much work to handle.
How to prevent it: Ensure your thermostat is positioned optimally. For instance, positioning it near a window, in a drafty area, or under direct sunlight could lead to inaccurate readings. Another option is to upgrade to a programmable or smart model if the current one is outdated. These appliances may help you save energy, remind you of your schedule, and prevent your system from overworking.
4. Blocked or Dirty Condenser Coils Hurt Efficiency
The outdoor condenser coils have a pretty simple device. They just need to do one thing: get rid of the heat that your HVAC pulls out of your house. Of course, the minute that they get dirty or blocked, everything goes haywire.
What happens: Over time, dirt, leaves, and grass clippings can collect on your condenser coils and prevent the condenser coils from doing their job. This will cause your system to overheat and shut down or, at the very least, stop operating efficiently, leaving you paying for less comfort.
How to prevent it: This is a relatively simple solution. Just step out into your outdoor unit and clean off some debris. If the coils are all dirty, you can wash them using a gentle hose; make sure you do not damage them. This straightforward maintenance task can significantly enhance efficiency.
5. Low Refrigerant Levels Can Cause Major Damage
The refrigerant is essential for your air conditioner’s performance. It will cool the air that has circulated throughout your home. If, however, your system is low on refrigerant, you may be in for a really big headache.
What happens: Without sufficient refrigerant in the system, your home will not be cooled as it should. Worse, a low level can make your compressor overheat and fail. And let us tell you, replacing a compressor is not economical.
How to prevent it: Refrigerant doesn’t evaporate itself, so if your levels are low, it usually means there’s a leak. Scheduling a professional inspection for leaks during routine maintenance is a smart move. It can save you from a far bigger bill someday to correct the problem first.
Maintenance: The Key to Preventing Big Problems
Face the facts: no one wants to spend his or her precious free time thinking about maintenance for the HVAC system. However, you may avoid those shocks of expensive repairs altogether if you pay some attention somewhere in between. Yearly check-up with a trusted HVAC technician; that’s it, really. They will spot these small things before they become a big problem, and you will breathe easily, knowing your system is in good hands.
It’s Not Just About Savings
Saving thousands of dollars on HVAC repairs is just fine, but that is not the only reason you should want to keep yourself abreast of these issues. Consistent upkeep and care will ensure your home stays cozy in the winter and refreshingly cool in the summer. A well-maintained HVAC system lasts longer, which means you won’t be fetching your wallet anytime soon and will be buying a new one.
Conclusion: Take Control Before It’s Too Late
Your HVAC system is an essential part of your home. Experience the perfect climate control that keeps you cool in the summer, warm in the winter, and comfortable throughout the entire year. Taking a little bit of time to prevent these common issues will save you from some major headaches and a lot of money.
All you have to do is take a new filter, check your ducts, and remember your thermostat. A little effort now can mean the difference between a cozy home and a fatter wallet.