Overview
Your HVAC system is an integral part of your home or office. Its job is to keep the air fresh and at your desired temperature.
As long as your HVAC system is operating efficiently – you don’t even notice it.
However, when it breaks down or malfunctions, you realize its importance.
At this point, you have a dilemma: do I bring out my toolkit and start figuring out what’s wrong? Or should I opt for expert help from HVAC professionals?
The risk in opting for the DIY solution is that if you miss something or incorrectly fix any critical piece, the situation can go from bad to worse. This situation would force you to go to a professional for emergency HVAC repairs.
But don’t worry, we’re here to walk you through the six biggest HVAC repair mistakes. You can easily avoid all six – whether you choose to do them on your own or bring a professional on board.
So, without further ado, let’s dive right in and help keep your HVAC up and running!
1. Don’t Ignore the Signs That Your HVAC Needs Repairing!
Ignoring glaring signs that your HVAC needs attention is the biggest repair mistake.
If you address these problems in time, you can save yourself from a system breakdown. Breakdowns lead to very hefty repair bills and even HVAC replacements!
So, what are these signs that you should look out for?
Here are some common ones that are easy to spot and that you should be on a lookout for:
Blowing Hot Air
If your air conditioner is blowing hot air, this indicates that several components are not working properly. For example, there may be a broken compressor or a refrigerant leak.
Unusual Sounds
Unusual sounds from the motor should raise the alarm.
A smooth-running HVAC system should not be making these noises.
If you ignore these sounds, they can lead to the deterioration of your system. Deterioration can lead to full system replacement.
Unusual Smells
Do you often smell a pungent and burning odor when you turn on your air conditioner?
If yes, then you may need to get the wire insulation replaced.
A prolonged smell can also mean that you need a ductwork replacement.
Moreover, unpleasant smells may be a sign of mold buildup. It goes without saying how harmful mold is for you and your family’s health!
High Humidity Levels
One of the essential functions of your air conditioner is to pull humidity from the air.
If you see moisture forming on glass objects, such as windows or doors, then your air conditioner requires HVAC repairs.
Keep an eye out for these minor signs; they might help you save time and money!
Plus, you will experience better performance in the long run once you know how to detect these issues and maintain your HVAC.
2. The Wrong Size Air Filters
Most mistakes occur when it comes to the size of the air filters of your HVAC system.
There is a variety of air filters available in the market that you can buy and change.
What you need is a perfect size that would fit your system.
Sometimes, the wrong air filter might also fit, and you can mistake it for a job well done!
Sorry, but that is not how it works.
Just because it fits doesn’t imply it’s performing its function correctly.
If dust and air are not filtered correctly, then you may notice your allergies getting worse.
Furthermore, dust and dirt that your air filter misses may accumulate within your HVAC system. This accumulation will reduce its effectiveness.
Changing the air filters is an easy job for some individuals. However, some systems and filters need professional help.
You might end up paying a lot in HVAC repair costs if you choose to go ahead unprepared.
The right way to go about buying the perfect air filter for your HVAC is to contact your HVAC service provider. They know the correct MERV rating and size specifications for your system.
3. Not Changing the Air Filters
Even worse than changing your air filters with the wrong size is not changing them at all!
Some individuals are unaware that their heating and cooling system’s filter has to be replaced. Others don’t know how frequently their filter should be changed.
Pollen, germs, viruses, and dust are trapped by your HVAC system’s air filter. This prevents them from circulating through your home’s air.
If your system is operating all day, as you would expect, these pollutants will rapidly accumulate and block the filter.
Consequently, the air filter isn’t performing its job and needs replacement immediately. You can request help from HVAC companies near you.
4. Not Checking the Thermostat
If you’re having a problem with the heating and cooling at your home, the first thing to go check is the thermostat.
Thermostats regulate the functioning of your HVAC system. If they malfunction, it may seem like something is wrong with your heating or cooling system.
So, thermostats should be one of the first items to examine if you have a problem with your HVAC cooling or heating.
There are many potential consequences of the improper installation of thermostats. These consequences can go unnoticed.
For example, receiving an electric shock is at the top of the hazard list.
Improper installation can blow your circuit breaker. It can even damage the thermostat unit and the HVAC system.
Moreover, when it comes to deciding what thermostat may work for your HVAC system, there are a lot of variables to consider.
It may use anything from simple mechanical or digital room thermostats to sophisticated multi-system transmitting thermostats for interaction with building automation systems for basic area temperature management.
If you decide to go on this DIY project, you will find it challenging to navigate these choices and hazards.
Hence, it’s better if you have a professional HVAC service provider by your side to help you out.
5. Forgetting To Clean the Coils
Cleaning the coils is an integral part of HVAC maintenance.
There are two coils, the condenser, and the evaporator; a lot can go wrong if they’re not clean.
While you are sitting there watching your favorite show, your HVAC is struggling to provide cool air.
Heat gets trapped within the condenser coil when coils become coated in dust. The heat will be difficult to absorb by the evaporator coil.
The system will have a difficult time reaching the desired temperature. It will also have difficulty removing humidity from the air.
As a consequence, your system will have to work longer and harder to keep your house cool.
Without prompt HVAC repairs, you will notice a decrease in air quality and an increase in the sticky air in your house.
Keep in mind that excessive humidity may encourage the development of mold, mildew, and germs.
So, what do you keep your coils clean?
The answer isn’t to blast a hose into the outside condenser box or to attempt to scrub the coils with a sponge and cleaners.
This is because in doing so, you could damage the coils. Then, they will not be able to carry out their functions properly.
The coils are sensitive precision instruments. They must be removed carefully. This requires disassembly of the system and cleaning with specific chemicals.
6. Putting In More Refrigerant
Your HVAC system would be useless without refrigerant – a heat transfer fluid.
Let’s say your HVAC is not performing as it used to because you suspect the refrigerant is low.
The refrigerant is not something consumed by your system. Hence, there are only two reasons why the refrigerant in the HVAC system is low:
Either the refrigerant was initially charged less than normal, or you have a leak on your hands.
These are a few signs you look out for that might tip you if there is a leak:
- HVAC not cooling your area
- System overheating; Short bursts
- Ice deposits outside or inside the system
It is impossible to add refrigerant to your HVAC System on your own, so don’t try to work it out on yourself.
The refrigerant is charged in the HVAC by the manufacturers at the factory or, in some cases, by your HVAC installers.
Do not make the mistake of charging the refrigerant on your own. Different systems have different refrigerant requirements.
If you notice any strange behavior in your HVAC system, contact a professional HVAC company nearby to help you eradicate the problem.
Final Verdict
Repairing an HVAC System is not an easy job.
It requires skill, expertise, time, and energy.
Be mindful of the mistakes that can be made, and you’ll be good to go.
In case, you don’t know how to solve a particular issue, do not start making HVAC repairs yourself.
Simply get in touch with the professionals at OHA HVAC, Plumbing, Roofing, Chimney & Fireplaces.
Opt for premium quality, cost-effective HVAC repairs you can count on!
