In the middle of winter, the HVAC system is running at full speed to heat the home and keep indoor temperatures comfortable. Though routine maintenance should help keep the system running properly throughout the entire season, there are a few common causes of HVAC issues that homeowners should be aware of.
- Dirty HVAC filter
An HVAC filter should last up to three months, after which it should be replaced. If the filter is clogged, the system will struggle to blow air into the home and make it difficult to heat the home. The extra strain on the system could lead to breakdown.
- Dirty AC condenser coils
Coils in the condenser can become clogged with dirt, leaves, and other debris, reducing the efficiency of the HVAC system and increasing energy usage and costs. Use a water hose to clean the condenser coils or call Blue Apple for professional HVAC service in Las Vegas and surrounding areas.
- Leaking refrigerant
Refrigerant leaks may be caused by vibrations from equipment, normal wear and tear, and corroding copper in the coil. Not all refrigerant leaks are easy to detect. Typically, a professional HVAC technician must use specialized equipment to identify a refrigerant leak.
A system that has been leaking for a while may have frost buildup on the coil, pools of water indoors by the unit, and struggle to cool the home as it should. Because refrigerant is toxic, a leak should only be repaired by a licensed HVAC technician.
- Dirty evaporator coil
A dirty evaporator coil may have a thick layer of dirt, dust, and other debris, making it difficult for the system to cool the home. In addition, the system may need to run cycles longer than usual to reach the temperature set on the thermostat. Other signs of a dirty evaporator coil include low air pressure and frost on the coils.
- Malfunctioning thermostat
If the system doesn’t seem able to heat or cool the home to the temperature set on the thermostat, the cause could be problems with the thermostat. Reset the thermostat and follow the owner’s manual for troubleshooting.
- Lack of maintenance
Last but not least, neglecting the HVAC system will increase the likelihood of frequent breakdowns. If HVAC maintenance isn’t something you have time for, contact Blue Apple for professional service.