On average, it can cost between $4,500 and more than $9,000 to replace your HVAC system. If you need to repair or replace ductwork, that can increase the cost to between $6,500 and more than $12,000.
This price includes adding a new furnace and air conditioner to your home, and it will vary depending on the brand of appliance you buy. It might also be possible to reduce the cost of your HVAC by being aware of some common problems and getting them fixed as soon as possible.
Read on to discover seven common HVAC system issues and what to do about them.
1. HVAC Problems: Dirty Filters
Having a dirty filter is one of the most common and easiest heating and cooling problems to fix. Filters are in place to remove a variety of contaminants from the air, including dust, pollen, and pet dander.
When these get clogged, it’s harder for the air to move through the system, which can strain your appliance. It might also cause your air conditioner or furnace to overheat. This could lead to damaged components or your system shutting down completely.
By replacing the filters on a regular basis, not only will you be improving your home’s air quality, but you will also help your HVAC system run optimally.
Typically, it’s advised that you replace the filter every one to three months. It only takes a few minutes to accomplish this task, but it has long-lasting impacts that could extend the life of your heating and cooling system.
2. Tripped Breakers and/or Blown Fuses
Should the filter on your heating and cooling system become clogged and the system has to work harder to move the air through, this could lead to tripped breakers or blown fuses.
Changing out the filter should reduce the occurrence of tripped breakers and blown fuses from occurring.
If it doesn’t, then you’ll need to call in a professional to inspect your system. It’s possible that there are other issues that might be causing the blower to work harder than necessary. A technician will be able to find the problem and get it fixed.
3. Issues with the Thermostat
Thermostats frequently experience issues that can impact how well your system runs. Many of them are easy to fix, although a few may require a professional.
If you find that your home isn’t as warm or cool as you prefer, the first thing you need to check is to make sure that your thermostat is set at the right temperature. If it is, then the next thing you should look for is whether it is impacted by a light source.
Should the sun or a lamp shine on your thermostat, it may think that it’s warmer in your house than it really is. Protecting your thermostat from these heat sources could help your system keep your house at the ideal temperature.
Other issues that can arise with your thermostat include issues with the electrical components. When those arise, a professional is needed to fix the problem.
4. Component Wear and Tear
Your heating and cooling system is made of a lot of moving parts, including belts, bearings, and fans. Constant use of the system and age will cause these components to wear out. When that happens, your system won’t work the way it’s supposed to.
Determining if component wear and tear is the cause of your system issues, you might consider having local HVAC contractors inspect your system. Not only will they be able to determine which component needs to be replaced, but they will more than likely have the part on hand.
5. Strange Noises
As the components in your heater or air conditioner are wearing down, they may give you a sign. This might include squealing or whining. This could be an indication that the bearings in the motor are about to give out. Screeching might also be a sign that your fan belt is about to break.
To ensure that a small problem doesn’t turn into a huge one when you hear strange noises coming from your furnace or air conditioner, you should contact a professional who does HVAC repair.
If you let these sounds and issues go for too long, this could result in a total furnace or air conditioner failure. Replacing your entire system will be more expensive than replacing a defective part.
6. Dirty Coils
Coils remove excess heat from your air conditioner and furnace. As they do their job, they get covered with dirt and debris. If allowed to build up, this could lead to your system running inefficiently or potentially overheating.
To ensure that the air flows properly through the system and your home is comfortable, you need to find “HVAC near me” and have them clean the coils on a regular basis.
7. Leaking Water
It’s possible for both air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces to product condensate. Typically, drains and pipes are in place to remove the moisture from the system.
However, if the drain or the lines become clogged, there’s a chance that the water will leak into your home and cause damage.
When this happens, there’s an increased risk of mold growth, which can have a negative impact on you or your family’s health. There’s also the chance that the water could damage drywall and carpeting or lead to wood rot.
Should you suspect that your heating and cooling system is leaking water, getting it fixed as soon as possible is recommended. Calling a technician is the best way to find and fix the source of the leak.
Keeping Your System Running Optimally
There are some common HVAC issues that could impact how well your system runs. Since adding a new air conditioner or heater to your home can be incredibly expensive, the best way to keep your system running optimally is to have it serviced on a regular basis.
At Colvin’s Heating & Cooling, we have the skills and experience to help with any issues that might arise. We are an HVAC supply company as well as professional technicians. We provide our customers with quality service quickly and efficiently.
Whether you are experiencing common system issues or have an emergency, we are here to help. Contact us today!
