HVAC Questions and Answers

Solutions to Common HVAC Problems

Your HVAC system keeps you and your loved ones comfortable all year round, but even the most reliable system will have issues from time to time. These are the most common things we get questions about—problems—but we also get questions about maintenance, energy bills, and more.

Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about HVAC systems, but you can call us any time if you need more help!

When should my HVAC system be replaced?

With proper maintenance and care, your HVAC system should provide reliable performance for 10-15 years. In some cases, early replacement is necessary if there is a major breakdown, improper sizing, or sub-par installation.
Is routine HVAC maintenance worth the cost?
Proactive and preventative HVAC maintenance is an excellent way to prevent breakdowns, malfunctions, and damage that can be incredibly expensive to repair. This initial HVAC maintenance cost is a small investment to ensure superior and reliable performance, and well worth the cost.

Why is my HVAC system leaking?

In some cases, you may notice dripping from your air conditioner. This may be caused by a variety of issues including dirty filters, clogged condensate line, or ice formation on the evaporator coils.

Your furnace is also susceptible to water leaks. There are a wide range of parts within the furnace that may crack or malfunction that will result in water leaks. If you are experiencing leaks from either your air conditioning unit or your furnace, it’s essential to schedule a professional inspections and repair services.

What causes my air conditioner to freeze up?

There are a couple of reasons your air conditioner is freezing up. The first possible cause is from blocked air flow. If the air flow is restricted, usually caused by a dirty air filter. This will allow the condensate on the coil will freeze.

Another possible cause is a refrigerant leak in your HVAC system. If this is the case, your HVAC professional will be able to determine if an air conditioner replacement is your best option.

Why is my HVAC system making strange noises?

There are a number of sounds that your HVAC can make that are indicative of potential problems. Here’s what some of the most common sounds your HVAC system can make and what they may be trying to tell you.

• Squealing or screeching—These strange sounds may indicate an issue with the blower motor. Issues may include a defective or broken belt or motor bearing issues.
• Rattles, clanking, and banging—These sounds are generally indicative of a problematic blower assembly or motor. These sounds are generated when an internal part becomes loose, breaks, or disconnects completely. You should turn the power off to the entire system and schedule repair services as soon as possible.

Any sort of strange sound that comes from your HVAC system isn’t normal. It’s important to schedule repair services to prevent further—and costlier—damage to your system.

Why won’t my furnace pilot light?

There are a variety of issues that may cause your pilot light to go out or simply not light at all. One culprit may be a faulty thermocouple. The thermocouple detects the heat produced by the pilot light.

This characteristic serves as an excellent safety feature and was designed to slow down the flow of gas to the system when the thermocouple senses the pilot light is out.

Another possible culprit is a blocked pilot tube. If simple cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s time to schedule a professional inspection and repair services.

Can heat pumps save me money on energy bills?

With a heat pump installation, you can expect to see a reduction of up to 30%-40% on your energy costs with proper usage habits. Heat pumps are an exceptional source of energy efficient heat that keeps your home warm in colder months and cool in the warmer months.

How often should HVAC filters be replaced?

The frequency in which your HVAC filters will need to be replaced will ultimately depend on your individual environment. In general, you should check your HVAC filters once a month to get a feel for how quickly they collect dirt and debris. A great way to gauge how dirty the filter may be is to hold a clean, spare filter next to it and compare the two while holding them up to the light. If the light is obscured, it’s time to replace the filter.

Need More Answers? Call Us Today!

Have a question that’s not answered here, or just need more information for your unique situation? No problem! We know that HVAC solutions are hardly ever one-size-fits-all, and we’re ready to lend a hand whenever you need us. For answers to these and other HVAC frequently asked questions, call us today!