As spring begins in Lake Worth, FL, it’s the best time to schedule HVAC maintenance. Like every electrical appliance, your HVAC system requires maintenance services to keep it in top shape. Here are seven of the most common issues that your system may experience at this time of year.
Dirty Filters
One of the most common mistakes you may make is forgetting to change the air filters. HVAC experts recommend changing filters monthly. If you ignore this task, the air filters may clog with accumulated dust and dirt, reducing the system’s efficiency.
The clogging reduces airflow, forcing the system to work harder than it should. Such a problem not only increases your energy bills but also allows pollutants to lower your indoor air quality.
Dirty Coils
Most HVAC systems come with two sets of different coils that are essential in keeping you comfortable. The one located inside your home is an evaporator coil. Over time, it may collect dust and dander that make it hard to cool your home.
We recommend cleaning the evaporator coils at least twice every year during biannual maintenance service. Additionally, the outside unit has a condenser coil that gets dirty and needs cleaning, too.
Refrigerant Leakage
Your HVAC system contains a refrigerant solution that circulates between the indoor and the outdoor unit. Sometimes, your HVAC system may start leaking the refrigerant through the rubber lines or gaskets. When your system experiences leaks, you could notice problems such as unusual odors or loud noises.
If you suspect refrigerant leakage, contact your HVAC contractor for inspection and repairs. Your contractor will also refill the refrigerant to the recommended level.
Tripped Breaker
Some HVAC systems contain an indoor, wall-mounted switch that you may confuse for a light switch. If someone in your household accidentally tripped the HVAC switch during the winter, your air conditioner will not turn on when you need it in the spring. If your air conditioner fails to turn on, check this switch and make sure it’s in the on position.
Duct Problems
The ductwork system is the means by which your HVAC system delivers conditioned air into your living space. The ductwork clogs with dust and dander over time and reduces the level of comfort in your home. Due to this buildup, your ductwork develops cracks and starts leaking conditioned air.
When the conditioned air leaks, the system loses energy, increasing your monthly utility bills. Another duct issue is the loss of sealant, which also affects the energy efficiency of your system. This spring, contact your technician for a professional duct cleaning.
Thermostat Problems
Although a modern thermostat lasts for a long time, an older one may experience problems. Old mechanical models in particular may lose calibration easily. When your thermostat has incorrect calibration, you’re likely to have inconsistent temperatures that may lead to energy wastage.
If you have a mechanical thermostat that is more than a decade old, consider replacing it with a modern programmable thermostat. You might also need to have your existing thermostat inspected by a technician for possible dust and dirt. The buildup of dust and dirt affects the functioning of a thermostat, which may lead to overheating.
Debris Around the Outdoor Unit
Depending on the location of the outdoor condenser, you may need to clean the area around it. The condenser is one of the most critical components of your HVAC system, and it needs proper care to prevent damage. We recommend removing any bird or animal nests close to the unit and clearing any plants growing nearby.
Additionally, due to harsh winter weather, the outdoor unit may collect debris such as leaves and branches. You need to remove such debris to prevent damage that can be expensive to repair.
Many of the issues mentioned above are preventable with regular maintenance. They also require the assistance of a well-trained and experienced technician. For more information about HVAC maintenance in Lake Worth, FL, contact us at E·D·S Air Conditioning & Plumbing.
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