When To Repair Or Replace Your HVAC System
5 Common HVAC Problems
05/2/2022
When your HVAC system malfunctions, you need a quick response and an effective solution. As a leading HVAC contractor in the Greater Chicagoland area, Air-Rite Heating & Cooling has the Rite solution for any problem you face. Read on to learn about five common HVAC problems and how to fix them.
1. Malfunctioning Thermostat
The thermostat is the HVAC system’s control center. It tells the A/C and heater when to turn on, how long to run, and when to turn off. A malfunctioning thermostat directly impacts the temperature, and therefore comfort, of your home. Possible causes for a malfunctioning thermostat include:
- A faulty unit
- Loose or damaged electrical wiring
- Low batteries
Solution
Check whether the thermostat is set to your desired temperature, then make sure the thermostat has power. It will be powered by either batteries or your furnace. Check the batteries and the furnace to make sure they have power.
2. Dirty Air Filters
Air filters remove contaminants from the air it circulates throughout your home. When these filters aren’t cleaned or replaced regularly, they collect dust, dirt, and other debris that blocks proper airflow.
Solution
Depending on your air filtration system, the filters will require either monthly, seasonal, or annual maintenance. Some systems require washing the inserts while others need a monthly replacement. Check with the manufacturer or Air-Rite Heating & Cooling about the maintenance requirements for your system. Having clean filters is especially important during peak A/C season. A dirty air filter could cause your A/C to freeze up.
3. Leaks
Aging HVAC systems are more susceptible to water and refrigerant leaks, not to be mistaken with normal furnace and air conditioner draining that occurs in the PVC pipes. The leaks we’re talking about occur when water or refrigerant either leaks directly from the unit or spills over from the PVC drain.
Solution
If your system leaks water or refrigerant—which it shouldn’t—determine the source of the leak. Water leaks can occur due to clogged pipes. Depending on the severity of the clog, you may need to call a plumber to fix it.
If your system leaks freon, a leak test can be performed to determine the leak’s source. Schedule an appointment with Air-Rite Heating & Cooling for a leak test. While freon leaks aren’t always obvious, you should notice one/more of the following symptoms:
- Frozen evaporator indoor A/C coil
- Higher than normal indoor humidity levels
- Low airflow
- Outside A/C unit makes a hissing sound
- A/C unit takes too long to cool
4. Noisy
While it’s normal for your furnace to make some noise at the onset of each heating cycle, excessive noise could indicate an underlying problem. Some noises may be intermittent.
Solution
First, check your furnace filter to make sure it’s clean. Make sure the registers and grilles are open and free from obstructions. If you notice an unusual mechanical sound coming from inside the furnace when the furnace isn’t running cycles, turn the unit off and back on. If the unit creates an intermittent noise, take a video to share with the Air-Rite Heating & Cooling experts. If the noise continues, it could be a sign of a more serious problem. In this case, you’re best off contacting an Air-Rite Heating & Cooling technician to provide a solution. We’re available 24/7.
5. Smelly
It’s normal for a furnace to produce a slight burning smell when it runs heating cycles for the first time in a new season. The unit is burning off dust that has accumulated since the last time it ran. However, a rotten egg smell coming from the unit may be a sign of a gas leak.
Solution
If you smell gas, exit your home and call either your gas company or the fire department immediately. Get to a safe area away from the suspected leak. Stay away until emergency personnel indicates that it’s safe to re-enter your home.
North Shore Gas / Peoples Gas: 866-556-6005
Nicor Gas: 888-556-6005
When To Repair Or Replace Your HVAC System
If you experience persistent issues with your HVAC system—including the five described above—schedule a service call with an Air-Rite Heating & Cooling technician. The service technician will perform a diagnostic and provide a solution for the issues you’re experiencing. The technician will also provide you with the current age and condition of your system. This valuable information will help you decide whether to make the necessary repair(s) or upgrade the system.
Schedule A Service With The HVAC Experts
Air-Rite Heating & Cooling has been the trusted name in HVAC repair and installation services since 1959. Our HVAC technicians can serve your household heating and cooling needs with expert repair and replacement services. When you’re in a pinch, call Air-Rite Heating & Cooling when you need a prompt and reliable HVAC contractor in your area. Click here to see all the locations we serve in the Greater Chicagoland community.