HVAC systems are part of our everyday lives. Today, there are plenty of builder trends that are making our lives even more convenient. An air conditioner is frequently utilized in hot and humid areas, while a heater is more of a value in areas with frigid climates. Proper ventilation, on the other hand, is needed in every part of the world. That is why a ventilation system is present in almost every structure. When making use of an HVAC system, especially in the long run, some problems commonly occur. For your HVAC work and function more comfortably and conveniently, it is essential to address these concerns immediately. There can be HVAC problems that one may think he or she can solve herself or himself. But to ensure that the issue will be fixed accordingly and prevent it from occurring in the future, it is better to call a professional to take care of it. Particularly in commercial places, it is necessary to have a professional who will regularly maintain the HVAC system installed to prevent disruptions that can affect the business and the workplace flow.
Using a Project Management Software
When working with HVAC, the crew needs to have a plan that they can follow, and they need to keep track of their time. Either in times where HVAC systems need to be employed or in situations where HVAC systems need to be checked and maintained, a project manager should manage his or her crew and monitor their tasks and the projects. Besides monitoring their assignments and managing the team, it is also essential to keep track of the business transactions to prevent misunderstandings and other heavier complications that can hinder the job. Moreover, it is also vital that the team themselves be aware of the crew schedule for them to manage their time better. Furthermore, to be able to share insights and inform others about different issues and ideas through photos, videos, and documents will also help the team. To be capable of doing all of these, using construction management software will be a huge help.
1. Tripped Circuit Breaker or Blown Fuse
Another possible issue that an HVAC system can have is a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse. This issue can be caused by another problem such as a blockage that can lead to an overworking blower because it tries to force the air through the filter. This situation can even raise the blower’s energy consumption and result in a tripped circuit breaker. To solve this problem, it is recommended first to check the filter and to change or clean it before resetting the circuit breaker. Although, if this problem persists, it is best to ask for an HVAC professional’s help. Other reasons for this problem are dirty coils, blocked air registers, and duct leaks.
2. Malfunctioning Thermostat
There are times that when an HVAC unit is not functioning accordingly, the problem lies in the thermostat. The thermostat is the unit that controls the HVAC system. For this reason, whenever there is a problem with the thermostat, other issues can occur. Issues with the thermostat can be because it is not in the correct setting, or its battery has run out already. To fix it, you can check its manual, look for steps to take or change the battery. If it is still not properly functioning, it is best to ask for an HVAC technician’s help.
3. Pilot or Ignition Problems
Ignition problems can be the result of several things. It can be because of the wear and tear of a component of the ignition that needs to be replaced or a problem with the gas supply. It can also be the result of a malfunctioning burner or a dirty pilot. In addressing these problems, it is best to call a professional. Attempting to do it on your own if you are not a professional can cause an even bigger problem because these issues are not easy to fix, and difficult matters such as natural gas are even involved.
4. Refrigerant Leak
When dealing with HVAC, another problem that can occur is a refrigerant leak. A refrigerant is in charge of dehumidifying and cooling the airflow. A leak will not only be an inconvenience, but it is also dangerous. Indications of a refrigerant leak include the air barely cooling and the temperature rising. Moreover, if the refrigerant leaks, the compressor will become hot and will eventually stop. To solve this problem, one should immediately contact an HVAC technician who will find and fix the leak and charge the system with the correct amount of refrigerant based on the manufacturer’s specification.
5. Water Leaks
Another issue that can occur in an HVAC system is water leakage. High-efficiency furnaces and air conditioners generate condensate. A leak can occur in furnaces if the pipes that are installed for proper water drainage are cracked or clogged. To help maintain the cleanliness of drain lines, bleach can be poured on the drain occasionally. Leaks can also come from an evaporation drain pan, a collector box, or a heat exchanger. To identify where the leak is coming from and fix it, a service technician should be asked to do the job.
6. Clogged Filters
Clogged filters are another common problem that can occur in HVAC systems. Air filters are supposed to filter harmful contaminants and dust in the air and go inside homes and other structures. After some time, air filters can become clogged. If not addressed correctly, problems can occur in the HVAC system. A dirty filter will hinder airflow and it will be harder for the unit to circulate air in the building. It can also cause overheating. Fixing this problem is not hard. An air filter can be replaced easily if it is already dirty. If it is reusable, it will only need cleaning and it will properly function again.
7. Corrosion of Wires and Terminals
An indication that the wires and terminals in an HVAC system are corroded is when the air conditioner is continuously turning on and off. To fix this problem, an HVAC technician should examine it and change the corroded parts.
8. Sensor Issues
Another problem that can occur in an HVAC unit is a sensor issue. If the air conditioning is still not producing cold air after examining the drains and filter, the problem might be on the sensor. If the air conditioner is installed on a wall, one should check if the sensor’s wires are still correctly attached and if the sensor is still in its rightful place.
9. Unusual Loud Noises
Another issue that can emerge from an HVAC unit or system is unusual loud noises. Noises such as grinding, rasping, whining, or squealing can sign that components like bearings in the blower motor or the inducer motor are failing. Some noises, on the other hand, can be the result of dirty burners or airflow issues. To prevent these issues that can cause loud noises and that can even lead to system failure, it is recommended that a professional HVAC technician regularly maintains the unit.
10. Mechanical Wear and Tear
An HVAC system is consisting of various electrical and mechanical components. It is necessary to properly maintain it so that the mechanical parts, including fans, belts, and bearings, do not wear and tear. Wear and tear on these things can lead to overheating, airflow issues, or poor heating. For these reasons, regular maintenance is vital.
11. Lack of Maintenance
Some people might think that regular maintenance is not essential; that doing so will only incur expenses. But in reality, not getting your HVAC system maintained by an HVAC professional will only lead to more expenses when the issues that can occur and can be easily addressed with proper maintenance has already worsened. Furthermore, not having your HVAC system checked can lead to poor performance, higher energy consumption, and even breakdowns that can lead to costly disruptions in commercial places and inconveniences in homes.
12. Ductwork Problems
One more issue that can occur is an HVAC unit is ductwork problems. If it is observed that an air conditioner is blowing air but not on its regular capacity, the complication can be located in the ducts. If the air conditioner’s ductwork is leaking or is blocked, all of the air will head to the spot where the leakage is or at the clog instead of in the building. To solve this problem, an HVAC professional should be contacted right away.
Key Takeaways
Installing an HVAC system can cost money, but people still install it because of its comfort. In every HVAC system, there is always a possibility that problems can take place. To prevent these problems, it is best that the system is being maintained regularly. By doing this, problems in the system can cause massive changes, and so many expenses can be prevented.
