7 of the Most Common HVAC Issues You Should Fix Immediately

In any home, heating and cooling are essential because it maintains a comfortable temperature and filter out airborne contaminants. For this reason, HVAC systems are installed to achieve this goal. However, HVAC systems are no different from any other home maintenance because they’re also prone to breakage, costing hundreds to thousands of dollars to fix.

HVAC problems usually arise from a lack of maintenance, but sometimes they can be caused by faulty installation or poor workmanship. Sometimes, they’re also caused by defective or missing components, which can cause the system to fail. If you think your HVAC system is having problems, it’s essential to get it checked by a professional as soon as possible. However, as a homeowner, you must know some of the most common signs an HVAC system is experiencing issues. These include:

#1 – Foul Odour

It could mean many things when you smell foul odours from your HVAC system. For one, it could be a sign of mould or mildew growth, which is common in humid areas. Another possibility is a clogged drain pan, which can cause the water to back up and cause mould or mildew growth. You may also notice a burning smell, usually caused by an electrical problem, such as a faulty circuit board or switch.

#2 – Unusual Noises

If you hear unusual noises from your HVAC system, it could be a sign of a broken component or a loose part. For example, hearing a rattling or whining sound could signify a loose blower wheel or fan blade. For screeching noises, it could be a sign of a failing compressor. If you hear a humming noise, it could be a sign of a failing capacitor. If you hear a clicking noise, it could be a sign of a failing contactor. These are noises no HVAC system should emit, so have the problem checked.

#3 – Thermostat Issues

If you notice your HVAC system isn’t maintaining the temperature you set on the thermostat, it could be a sign of a problem with the thermostat itself. For example, it could be a sign of a loose wire or a faulty circuit board. It could also be a problem with the thermostat’s sensor, which is located inside the air handler.

#4 – Refrigerant Leak

The refrigerant is the component of an HVAC system that’s responsible for cooling your home. If there’s a problem with the refrigerant, you’ll notice the temperature on your thermostat doesn’t change, even though you can hear the system running. If the system is low on refrigerant, it could signal a leak. A leaking refrigerant is problematic because it causes your HVAC system to work harder, leading to a breakdown. On the other hand, it could also signify a bigger problem, such as a problem with the evaporator coil. It’s best to have a Legacy Heating look at the problem to know what to do next.

#5 – Crackling or Sizzling Sounds

While you might hear your HVAC system produce sounds, they shouldn’t be too disturbing. However, loud noises, particularly crackling or sizzling, usually indicate a problem. Most of the time, the sound comes from the air conditioner unit. It could be a loose wire that’s causing the noise. It could also be a problem with the capacitor. If you can’t fix the problem yourself, it’s best to call a professional from Legacy Heating.

#6 – Not Heating or Cooling as It Should

HVAC systems are expected to heat or cool an entire room. Because of this, they tend to work too much. With time, the HVAC system may wear down, and you may find it not performing according to your preferences. This is usually caused by dirt build-up or faulty components, so you should get your system cleaned or repaired if this is the case.

#7 – Experiencing Allergies or Respiratory Issues

The point of having an HVAC system is to eliminate airborne contaminants in your home. If you or a family member still experiences allergies or respiratory issues, it simply means that your HVAC needs routine maintenance. Because of this, it may be time for some HVAC maintenance if you or a family member experience allergies or respiratory issues. Regularly changing your air filter is an excellent first step. You should also clean your humidifier if you have one because it leads to decreased air quality and respiratory problems if it’s dirty.

Conclusion

HVAC systems should never be taken for granted because they help to keep our homes comfortable and free of airborne contaminants. However, they do require regular maintenance to function correctly. If you suspect your HVAC system may need repair or maintenance, contact a professional to have it checked as soon as possible.

If you’re looking for HVAC contractors in Calgary and Edmonton, Legacy Heating can help you! We understand that HVAC systems can malfunction anytime, so our services are available 24/7 to ensure you won’t deal with them for long. Simply go to our website to request a free quote!