Summer in Idaho Falls is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and enjoying the Snake River and nearby parks. But, at the end of the day, you want to return home to a well-cooled house. If you are experiencing some common HVAC problems, you may return to a home that is warmer than you’d like.
While common HVAC problems are frustrating, they can be easily prevented and remedied with the help of your trusted HVAC professional. Our Ridgeline Heating & Cooling team understands how important it is to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home all summer long. If you believe you are experiencing a common HVAC problem or want to prevent it, keep reading to see what our team recommends.
1. Refrigerant Leak
Refrigerant is essential for cooling your home. It is found in the coils of your air conditioning unit and absorbs heat from indoor air and releases it outside, cooling your home. When you experience a refrigerant leak, you may notice a reduction in the efficiency of your system, leading to inadequate cooling and an increase in your energy bills.
If you want to avoid HVAC problems like a refrigerant leak, it is essential that you schedule maintenance for your system. During your maintenance appointments, your HVAC professional can check your refrigerant levels and look for potential leaks. If you notice a hissing noise coming from your unit, this is a sign that you have a leak, and you should contact a professional as soon as possible.
2. Frozen Evaporator Coils
Evaporator coils on your AC absorb heat from the indoor air, allowing the refrigerant inside to evaporate and cool the air before it is circulated back into your home. When your evaporator coils are dirty, you have low refrigerant levels, or there are airflow issues, your evaporator coils may begin to freeze, which can cause your system to shut down.
To avoid HVAC problems like frozen coils, remember to replace your air conditioner’s filter at least once every 90 days. If you have pets in your home, you may want to keep an eye on them, as this is an indication that you may need to replace them more frequently. Also, check to ensure that your vents are all open and unobstructed, so your system has adequate ventilation.
3. Electrical Issues
The electrical components in your air conditioner play a significant role in ensuring the system runs properly throughout the season. However, over time, some components, like a capacitor and contractor, can wear out. Without these components, you may experience system failure or intermittent operation.
While you may feel tempted to remedy HVAC problems like this on your own, it is in your best interest to work with a qualified HVAC professional. They can inspect your system to catch electrical issues early. You should also try to stay vigilant, watching for signs like frequent system cycling, a system that won’t start, or unusual noises.
4. Thermostat Problems
Your thermostat is responsible for monitoring the current temperature in your home and sending signals to your HVAC system so it may reach your chosen indoor temperature. When your thermostat isn’t working properly, it may cause your HVAC system to cycle on and off frequently or not maintain your desired temperature.
If you want to avoid thermostat malfunctions, make sure your thermostat is properly calibrated and placed away from heat sources that may cause it to misread your home’s temperature. Replace your batteries regularly, and consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat to ensure it is efficient and easy to control.
5. Sensor Problems
Your HVAC systems have various sensors to detect temperature and other conditions. These sensors are essential for efficient operation. Whether from dirt, dust, or physical impact, your sensors are incredibly sensitive to damage. If they become misaligned or faulty, they may impact your system’s performance.
Avoiding this common problem can be done during your regular HVAC maintenance appointments. It is in your best interest to avoid messing with these sensors without training. Your technician can check your sensors to ensure they are clean, properly aligned, and functioning correctly without causing additional damage.
The Importance of Regular Maintenance
The best way to prevent common HVAC problems is by investing in regular HVAC maintenance. These maintenance appointments should be scheduled twice a year to ensure your HVAC systems are in top condition as the seasons change. During these maintenance appointments, your HVAC professionals will have an opportunity to catch minor problems before they become more significant. With their help, you can ensure your system is prepared to keep your home comfortable all summer long.
Avoid Common HVAC Problems with Ridgeline Heating & Cooling
If you are looking for an HVAC professional in the Idaho Falls area who can help you avoid the most common HVAC problems, turn to our team at Ridgeline Heating & Cooling. Our team has over 50 years of combined HVAC experience. With this experience, you can trust that there are no HVAC problems too difficult for us to remedy.
From regular HVAC maintenance to gas fireplace installation and everything in between, our team provides a variety of services to ensure we meet every homeowner’s needs. If you would like to schedule an appointment to address the HVAC problems you’re experiencing, don’t hesitate to contact our team today.