HVAC Not Working? 5 Possible Reasons Why

(guest post by Walter E. Bennett)

The HVAC system has been a part and parcel of our everyday life. It controls and regulates interior areas' humidity, temperature, and air quality. So, an HVAC is your ultimate tool to fight against the changing weather.

However, there might come tough times when your HVAC system leaves you hanging. Before jumping into Google and typing “how to AC repair McKinney, TX,” you first need to identify the problem the device is facing. To help you identify the problem, this article will walk you through the five most typical causes of a potential AC malfunction.

1. Malfunctioning Thermostat

The most probable reason why your HVAC might not be working is a malfunctioning thermostat. An HVAC system with a broken thermostat can lead to several problems and impair the comfort of your home. It acts as the temperature control device, commanding the HVAC system to switch on or off following the specified settings.

You may face several issues when the thermostat is broken. Inaccurate temperature reading is one of them. For example, the HVAC system might not turn on when the temperature is too high or keep running when it's not needed, wasting electricity.

Failure to interact with the HVAC system is another major issue. A broken thermostat may have problems with the calibration or sensor. As a consequence, your HVAC system could not react to temperature changes properly, resulting in inappropriate temperature regulation.

2. Water Leaks

Your HVAC system might be suffering from water leakage. These leaks may occur for several reasons, including broken seals, condensation problems, or damaged or blocked drain lines. Ignoring water leaks may cause harm to the system and the neighborhood, regardless of the reason.

Water leaks can harm a building's structure and result in mold infestation, corrosion of building components, and poor indoor air quality. Additionally, it may make your HVAC system less effective, which would mean more energy would be used, and more money would be spent on utilities. Additionally, dampness can serve as a haven for bacteria and allergies, endangering the health of those living there.

3. Small Problems Resulting in Loud Noises

Loud HVAC noises can be annoying and may indicate more severe issues with your HVAC system. Numerous factors, including worn-out bearings, imbalanced fan blades, loose or broken parts, and airflow constraints, might cause these sounds. Ignoring these noises may result in additional harm and perhaps system collapse.

Rattling, hammering, grinding, or whistling are common HVAC noises. Rattling sounds might be caused by loose ducting or system components. Noises like banging or clanging might indicate a broken compressor or motor. While whistling noises might be a sign of a broken fan or restricted airflow, grinding sounds could indicate cracked bearings.

4. Dirty Evaporator Coils

Dirty evaporator coils in your HVAC system can cause a range of problems. The system's functionality and effectiveness can suffer as a result. The evaporator coil plays the role of cooling the air by transferring heat from the indoor environment to the refrigerant.

When the coil gets dirty, dirt, dust, and debris accumulate on the coil, forming a layer that acts as insulation. This insulation stops heat from transferring from the air to the refrigerant, reducing the system's cooling capacity. Because of this, the HVAC system needs to operate longer and harder to maintain the required temperature, which ends up in increased energy use and utility costs.

Moreover, the accumulation of dirt on the evaporator coils provides a breeding ground for mold, bacteria, and other microorganisms. These contaminants can be circulated into the indoor air, potentially causing respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues for the occupants.

5. Tripped Circuit Breakers

Tripped circuit breakers in your HVAC system can cause disruptions to its operation and indicate electrical issues. The circuit breaker is built to safeguard the system from an overflow of electricity, or even short circuits. When a circuit breaker trips, the electricity supply to the HVAC equipment is turned off, resulting in a complete shutdown. Different factors can cause this, such as a defective motor, compressor, or wiring problem. However, dirty air filters or overheating can also be responsible for this.

How To Troubleshoot Your HVAC System To Identify The Problem

Let’s say you discovered that your HVAC is facing one of these problems. How should you troubleshoot your HVAC system to AC repair?

If a malfunctioning thermostat is the case, check the wire connections, recalibrate, or just replace the thermostat.

In terms of water leaks, careful preservation and examination of the HVAC system regularly is the prevention key. Inspect the drain lines, make sure that the insulation is adequate, and resolve any moisture buildup symptoms as soon as they appear.

Who likes a continuous irritating sound? Regular HVAC maintenance can help avoid these odd sounds. Lubricate moving components, tighten connections, and clean filters. You may benefit from a quieter and more effective HVAC system by quickly correcting loud HVAC issues and performing routine maintenance on the system.

You must maintain and clean the evaporator coils regularly. Professional HVAC technicians can perform a thorough cleaning, removing dirt and debris and ensuring optimal performance and energy efficiency of the system. Use good air filters, and swap them out frequently. Resetting the tripped breaker is simply a temporary fix; finding and treating the root of the problem is essential. Consult a specialist for that.

Conclusion

In terms of any critical condition, it is recommended to consult an HVAC professional. You will get the best AC repair service from a licensed specialist. They can diagnose the root cause easily and repair the electrical issue, ensuring the system's dependable and secure operation.