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. Its blower makes use of propane or natural gas, or oil to generate heat for the furnace, while electricity powers the cooling elements in an all-electric unit.

Vents (or registers) are located in the ceiling or wall of every room. They should be kept open if possible to ensure proper air flow throughout your home.

Thermostat

A thermostat is one of the most crucial components of your HVAC system. It regulates the temperature of your home by turning on and shutting off the fan and compressor to attain a pre-set temperature. It also activates the exchanger to pull fresh air from outside into your home and vent stale air through your ductwork.

The majority of thermostats are digital. However there are older models. Digital thermostats are controlled by a thermistor. The device contains metals which change resistance as temperatures change. The thermistor is connected to a control unit, converts the resistance change into temperature. There are various kinds of thermostats that include smart and programmed thermostats. They allow you to monitor and alter your home’s energy consumption.

Thermostats are located on the interior walls of your home, usually in rooms that are used the most. The place of a thermostat within your home could affect its accuracy. A thermostat that is placed in direct sunlight, for instance could show an upper temperature than the actual temperature of the room. This could cause your system to run more or less. If your thermostat isn’t functioning correctly, you can try reset it however if this does not solve the issue it is recommended to contact an AC technician for help.

Consider a programmable thermostat if you are replacing your current thermostat. You’ll save money on energy bills. A thermostat that is programmable will automatically adjust your home’s temperature to suit your needs, rather than having you manually manipulate your HVAC system on a regular basis. It’s also worth a look to determine if you can locate a better model that can provide you with even greater energy savings, such as an energy-efficient or ENERGY A STAR-certified thermostat.

Condenser

Condensers are often the culprit when your air conditioner isn’t working properly. The condenser is made up of many different components that must work in harmony in order for the unit to function. The entire system can be affected in the event that any of these parts are damaged or worn out. The most common issues found in the condenser include a damaged control board or refrigerant leaks.

The compressor pushes the refrigerant into the condenser where a fan blows cooled outside air over the coils. This allows the refrigerant gas to cool and return to liquid form. The liquid that is cooled is redirected back to the evaporator where it continues the cooling process. The process continues until the desired temperature for your business or home is reached.

The most important thing you can do to ensure that your condenser operating correctly is to ensure that the area around it is free of any debris. Leaves, twigs, flowers, grass and other debris could be carried into the unit by the condenser’s fan and create clogs that hinder the operation of the cooling system. It’s also a good idea to keep bushes and trees trimmed so that they don’t cause obstruction on the unit. This can reduce the risk that berries, branches, or nuts could fall and block the system. Keep your condenser in good condition to extend the lifespan of your AC by a couple of years.

Evaporator

The evaporator is what circulates warm air inside your home. It is made up of a string of tubing that is u-shaped and set into panels. The air from the blower fan is blown across these coils. This transfer heat from the indoor atmosphere to the refrigerant. The liquid refrigerant is converted into a gas and circulated throughout the cooling system to cool the indoor air.

The thermodynamics law states that heat is transferred from hotter to colder objects. When the evaporator is operating correctly, the energy is transferred from warm air to the refrigerant that is colder. This causes the refrigerant to evaporate or boil. In this process, the latent heat (which is not measurable with a thermometer) is transferred from the air to the refrigerant.

These coils are designed with specific structures that aid in the transfer of heat. These are also known as fins and increase the surface area to help in the transfer of heat. Copper and aluminum are both used to make Evaporators, each with its own advantages.

An evaporator that is afflicted with a buildup of organic growth can be prone to problems. This could be the result of mildew or mold. If this is the case, the unpleasant smells that the bacteria produce can be absorbed by the house and may cause discomfort.

It is crucial to choose an evaporator that can be easily cleaned and maintained. When selecting an evaporator it is essential to consider the working environment. Certain models are designed to withstand harsh conditions, while others can be used in moderate environments. In the end, you’ll want to ensure that your evaporator comes with a solid warranty that will ensure your investment.

Fan

The blower fan of your HVAC system circulates cold or hot air in your home until you get to the temperature you want. The fan can be turned on auto or continuous. We recommend keeping the fan on at all times for maximum efficiency and to save money on electricity costs. If your system’s fan is constantly running we can replace it with a new ECM blower motor that is up to 70% more efficient than old PSC motors and pays for itself in savings over the life of the unit.

If your fan is only running on high, the short circuit or malfunctioning relay could be preventing your thermostat from adjusting to the fan.

Filter

The filter is used to circulate air in the home before it is heated or cooled. It removes impurities, and stops dust and pet dander from entering into the system to contaminate internal components. It shields the family from illnesses spread by airborne pathogens. It also ensures the system is functioning properly. A dirty filter can cause the system to work harder, which can cause it to overheat and break down.

homeowners should change their filters on a regular basis each 30 or 90 days, depending on the label instructions. If a homeowner isn’t sure which kind of filter they need and should seek advice from an HVAC professional. A professional can assist them in selecting the right filter for their home based on the climate and the amount of time they use their system, as well as personal factors such as the presence of allergy sufferers or smokers in the house.

The filter is located in the return air duct, or in certain cases, the blower compartment of the furnace. The return air duct is usually located on the ceiling, wall or floor of the in the utility closet. It usually has a large grille made of metal that covers the filters. Ideally, the filter should be easily accessible to homeowners and service technicians to facilitate cleaning and replacement.

Filters are evaluated based on the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating, which reveals how effective they are at capturing various sizes of particles. A filter with a low MERV can take on larger contaminants like dust mites or pet dander but not fine allergens or germs. High-MERV filters on the contrary, can capture a wide range of contaminants without limiting airflow.