Why Your HVAC System Isn’t Working As Well As It Should

Your HVAC system sends temperature-regulated air through ductwork into different areas of your home. The blower is powered by propane or natural gas, or oil to generate heat for the furnace while electricity powers the cooling components in an all-electric unit.

Vents (or registers) are located in the ceiling, wall or floor of every room. If you can, keep them open to ensure that air is flowing properly throughout your home.

Thermostat

A thermostat is one of the most important parts of your HVAC system. It regulates the temperature of your home by switching off and on the compressor and fan to achieve a specific temperature, and it also turns on the air exchanger in order to bring fresh air from outside into your home, while venting stale, indoor air out through your ductwork.

The majority of thermostats are digital. However older models are available. Digital thermostats utilize a device called a thermistor made of metals that alter electrical resistance with temperature fluctuations. The thermistor is connected to an electronic microcontroller, which converts the changing resistance into the temperature reading. Thermostats are available in variety of styles including programmable and intelligent thermostats that allow you to monitor your home’s energy consumption and adjust it accordingly.

Thermostats are placed on the walls of your home, typically in rooms that are most frequently used. The location of a thermostat inside your home could affect its accuracy. For example one thermostat placed in direct sunlight may appear hotter than the actual temperature of the room which can cause your system to run excessively or not run at all. If your thermostat doesn’t work properly, try resetting the device. If this doesn’t solve the problem, call an AC technician.

Consider a programmable thermostat if you are replacing your existing thermostat. You’ll reduce your energy costs. A programmable model will automatically adjust the temperature of your home according to your schedule, instead of requiring you to manually manipulate your HVAC system every day. It’s also worth a look to determine if you can locate an improved model that could give you more energy savings, like an energy-efficient or ENERGY certified thermostat.

Condenser

Condensers are usually the cause when your air conditioner isn’t working as well as it should. The condenser is made up of numerous components that must be functioning in harmony for the unit to function. If any of these parts are damaged or worn out, then the entire system can be impacted. The most frequent issues in the condenser include a broken control board or refrigerant leaks.

The refrigerant gas from the compressor is pumped into the condenser where a fan blows cool outside air over the coils. This helps the refrigerant cool down and convert back into a liquid state. The low-pressure liquid that has been cooled is redirected back to the evaporator where it continues the cooling process. The cycle is repeated until the desired temperature for your business or home is achieved.

To ensure that your condenser runs properly, you should ensure that the area surrounding it is free of debris. Leaves, twigs and flowers, grass, and other debris can be carried into the unit by the condenser fan and cause clogs that prevent proper operation of the cooling system. It’s recommended to keep trees and bushes cut back so that they don’t encroach on the unit. This can reduce the chance that branches, berries, or nuts could fall and block the system. Keep your condenser clean to extend the life of your AC system by a minimum of 1-2 years.

Evaporator

The evaporator is what is used to move warm air around your home. It is made up of a string of tubing that is u-shaped, and formed into panels. Air from the blower fans is blown across these coils. This draws heat from the indoor air and transfers it to the refrigerant. The refrigerant liquid is transformed into a gas, then circulated throughout the cooling system to cool your indoor air.

The thermodynamics law states that heat flows from colder objects to warmer ones. If the evaporator is operating correctly, the heat energy is transferred from the warm refrigerant to the warm air. This causes the refrigerant to vaporize or boil. During this process, the latent heat (which cannot be measured using thermometers) is transferred from the air to the refrigerant.

These coils have been created with specialized shapes that enhance heat transfer. These are also known as fins, and they increase the surface area to aid in the transfer of heat. Some evaporators are made of copper, while others are made of aluminum, with each offering its own set of advantages.

A evaporator with an accumulation of organic growth can be prone to problems. This can be a result of mold or mildew. If this happens, the bacterium may produce a sour smell that spreads throughout the home. This can cause discomfort.

To avoid these problems, it is crucial to choose an evaporator that can be easily cleaned and maintained. It is also a good idea to consider the environment in which you work when choosing an evaporator. Some evaporators can withstand harsh environments, while others can be used in moderate conditions. It is also important to ensure that your evaporator is protected by a warranty that will safeguard you and your investment.

Fan

Your HVAC system’s blower motor works to circulate the cool or hot air through your home until the thermostat you set is attained. The fan can either be set to auto or constant. We suggest keeping the fan running on a constant basis to maximize efficiency and reduce your electricity bills. If your system’s fan keeps running We can replace it with a new ECM blower motor which is up to 70 percent more efficient than older PSC motors and pays for itself in savings over the duration of the unit.

If your fan only operates on high, a short circuit or a broken relay could be keeping your thermostat from adjusting to the fan.

Filter

The filter is used to circulate the air in the home before it is heated or cooled. It removes impurities and also stops dust and pet dander from entering into the system and contaminating internal components. It safeguards the family from illnesses spread by airborne pathogens. It also ensures that the system works efficiently. A dirty filter can make the system work harder and may cause it to overheat or even breakdown.

Homeowners should replace their filters regularly each 30 or 90 days, based on the directions on the label. The homeowner should consult an HVAC professional when they aren’t sure of the type of filter they require. A professional can assist homeowners choose the right filter for their home, based on factors like the climate, the frequency they use their system and even personal factors for instance, whether there are smokers or allergy sufferers living in the home.

The filter is located in the return air duct or in some cases the blower compartment of the furnace. The return air duct is usually located on the wall, ceiling or floor, or in the storage closets. It typically is covered by a large metal grille that covers the filters. The filter should be easily accessible to both homeowners and technicians for easy cleaning and replacement.

Filters are assessed based on the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating, which reveals how effective they are in capturing various sizes of particles. A low-MERV is able capture larger contaminants such as dust mites or pet dander but not fine allergens or germs. High-MERV filters are able to capture a variety of contaminants, but it doesn’t affect the normal flow of air.