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 of an all-electric HVAC unit runs on propane, oil, or natural gas as fuel to heat the furnace.

Every room is equipped with vents (or registers). They are situated on the ceiling or walls, or on floors. They should be kept open as much as you can to ensure the proper circulation of air throughout your home.

Thermostat

The thermostat is an essential element of your HVAC system. It regulates the temperature in your home by turning on and shutting off the fan and compressor to attain a pre-set temperature. It also activates the exchanger in order to draw fresh air from outside your home and vent stale air through your ductwork.

The majority of thermostats are digital although older models do exist. Digital thermostats utilize a device called a thermistor which is made up of metals that change electrical resistance with temperature changes. The thermistor is connected an electronic microcontroller, which converts the changing resistance into a temperature reading. Thermostats are available in a variety of styles that include programmable and smart thermostats that let you monitor your home energy consumption and adjust it accordingly.

Thermostats are located on the walls of your home, usually in rooms that are most frequently used. The position of your thermostat could affect its accuracy. A thermostat located in direct sunlight, for instance could show a higher temperature than the actual room temperature. This can cause your system to run more or less. If your thermostat isn’t functioning correctly, try setting it again but if that does not resolve the issue then you should contact an AC technician for help.

If you’re thinking about changing your thermostat, you should check out the various options available to you and consider a programmable model to save money on your energy bills. A thermostat that is programmable will automatically adjust the temperature of your home according to your schedule rather than needing you to manually operate your HVAC system every day. It’s also worth a look to determine if you can locate a better model that can provide you with even greater savings on energy, like an energy-efficient or ENERGY STAR-certified thermostat.

Condenser

When your air conditioning isn’t functioning as efficiently as it should one of the most common causes can be found in your condenser. The condenser is comprised of several components that cooperate to make the unit function. The entire system can be affected when any of these components are damaged or worn out. The most common problems found in the condenser are broken control board or leaks of refrigerant.

The compressor moves the refrigerant through the condenser which is where a fan blows cooled outside air over the coils. This allows the refrigerant gas cooling and to return to liquid form. The low-pressure liquid that has been cooled moves back into the evaporator to continue the cooling process. The cycle is repeated to achieve the temperature you want for your home or office.

The most important thing you can do to ensure that your condenser operating correctly is to ensure that the area around it remains free of any debris. The condenser’s fans can draw leaves, twigs, and other debris into the unit, creating obstructions and preventing the cooling system from functioning effectively. It’s important to keep the bushes and trees trimmed so that they don’t encroach on the unit. This reduces the likelihood that berries, nuts, or branches fall into the system and cause clogging. Clean your condenser to prolong the life of your AC by 1-2 years.

Evaporator

The evaporator is the part that allows warm air to enter your home. It is constructed of a series of tubes, which are then set into panels. The air from the blower fan is blown across these coils. This draws heat from the indoor air and then transfers it to the refrigerant. The refrigerant’s liquid becomes a gas that circulates through the cooling system to cool the air.

The law of thermodynamics states that heat travels from colder objects to warmer ones. When the evaporator functions correctly, the energy of heat is transferred from the refrigerant that is warm to the cool air. This causes the refrigerant to vaporize or boil. In this process, heat that cannot be measured using thermometers, also known as latent heat, is transferred from the air to the refrigerant.

These coils are designed with special structures that enhance the transfer of heat. Fins are utilized to increase the surface area of coils. Certain evaporators are constructed with copper, while others are made of aluminum, each providing its own set advantages.

An evaporator that has a buildup of organic growth is prone to issues. This can be a result of mildew or mold. If this is the case, the foul smells that the bacteria produce can be absorbed by the home and can cause discomfort.

It is essential to choose an evaporator that is easily maintained and cleaned. It is also recommended to consider the environment in which you work when choosing an evaporator. Some are built to withstand harsh environments, whereas others can work well in moderate environments. It is also important to ensure that your evaporator is covered by a warranty that will safeguard you and your investment.

Fan

The fan in your HVAC system circulates cold or hot air through your home until you reach the thermostat setting. The fan can be set to auto or constant. We suggest keeping the fan on constant for maximum efficiency and to cut down on electricity costs. We can replace the motor of the fan when it is running continuously. The new ECM motor is up to 70 percent more energy efficient than the previous PSC motors. It is able to pay for itself over the lifespan of the unit.

If your fan only runs on high, the short circuit or broken relay could be preventing your thermostat settings from reaching your fan.

Filter

The filter is used to circulate air in the home before it is heated or cool. It removes impurities and also stops dust and pet dander from getting into the system and contaminating internal components. It safeguards the family from illness spread by airborne pathogens. It also ensures the system is working efficiently. A dirty filter makes the system work harder and can cause it overheat or breakdown.

Homeowners should replace their filters frequently at least every 30 days or 90 days, depending on the directions on the label. A homeowner should seek advice from an HVAC professional when they aren’t sure of the type of filter they need. A professional can assist them in choosing the right filter for their home based on the climate and how often they use their system, as well as personal factors such as the presence of allergy sufferers or smokers within the home.

The filter is situated in the return air duct or in some cases, the blower compartment, of the furnace. The return air duct could be located on the wall, floor or ceiling, or in a in the utility closet. It often contains a large metal grate which covers the filter. Ideally, the filter should be easily accessible to homeowners and service technicians to aid in cleaning and replacement.

Filters are rated based on their MERV rating (Minimum Effectiveness Reporting Value) which indicates how well they capture various sizes of particles. A low-MERV is able take on larger contaminants like dust mites and pet dander but not fine allergens or germs. High-MERV filters are able to capture various contaminants while not affecting the normal flow of air.