When your HVAC system is running efficiently, you hardly notice its presence. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Here are some common problems that could be wasting both energy and money while compromising your home’s comfort.
#1 Dirty Air Filters
Perhaps the most common culprit when it comes to a less-than-efficient HVAC system is a dirty air filter. Many homeowners simply forget to clean and change them, but it can put a major drain on your system.
The fact is, clogged air filters will suffocate the HVAC system as it struggles to pull in the air it needs to operate. Dirty air filters will also lead to dust and allergens finding their way into the air, as they won’t be able to work as they should if they are full of lint and debris.
Make it a habit to check your system’s air filters periodically to clean and/or replace them as recommended by the air filter manufacturer and your HVAC professional.
#2 A Malfunctioning Thermostat
Another common problem that can harm the efficiency of an HVAC system and cost owners money in the process is a malfunctioning thermostat.
Most commonly, older thermostats start to go bad and may even reset themselves to a certain temperature, compromising comfort and perhaps over-heating or over-cooling the home during certain seasons.
If your thermostat isn’t cooperating, try replacing the batteries. If that doesn’t work, simply swapping out for a new thermostat is a cheap and simple solution that should get your system up-and-running optimally again.
#3 A Refrigerant Leak
If you are finding that your HVAC system isn’t providing the level of cool air that it should be, it could be the result of a refrigerant leak. In this situation, you’ll want to have a professional come in to check for signs of a leak and to come up with a plan of action.
Holes or cracks in the refrigerant coils allow the refrigerant to leak out, harming the efficiency of your HVAC system and costing you a lot of money. Sometimes, a hissing sound is the first sign of a potential problem, although larger leaks can produce more of a gurgling sound.
#4 Leaky Ductwork
Refrigerant coils aren’t the only culprit for costly leaks in an HVAC system. Energy Star says that about 20% of air that moves through system ducts is lost due to gaps and holes in the ductwork. This is extremely costly and it highlights why you should always call in an HVAC professional if you suspect your ducts are damaged or leaking with age.
At the end of the day, having a comfortable home with clean air should be the expectation for any property that has an HVAC system in place. To help ensure that reality, think about these common problems that could be harming your system. When in doubt, bring in a professional to check things out and make sure you’re getting the most for your money.
