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.

Vents (or registers) are located in the ceiling or on the floor of each room. It is recommended to keep them open to allow the proper circulation of air throughout your home.

Thermostat

A thermostat is among the most crucial components of your HVAC system. It regulates the temperature of your home by turning off and on the fan and compressor until they attain a certain temperature, and also switches on the air exchanger to help draw fresh air from outside into your home while venting stale, indoor air through your ductwork.

The majority of thermostats are digital. However older models are available. Digital thermostats are controlled by the thermosistor. The device is made of metals that alter resistance as temperature changes. The thermistor is linked to an microcontroller that converts changing resistance into a temperature reading. Thermostats come in a range of models, including programmable and smart thermostats that allow you to monitor your home’s energy consumption and make adjustments.

Thermostats are placed on the interior walls of your house, typically in rooms where they are used most often. The place of your thermostat will affect its accuracy. For example, a thermostat located in direct sunlight could appear hotter than the actual room temperature and cause your system to run excessively or not run at all. If your thermostat isn’t functioning correctly, try resetting the device. If this doesn’t solve the problem then contact an AC technician.

You should consider a programmable thermostat if you are replacing your current thermostat. You’ll save money on your energy bills. A programmable thermostat will automatically adjust your home’s temperature according to your schedule instead of having you manually manipulate your HVAC system on a daily basis. It is also advisable to see if there is a more efficient model, such as one that is ENERGY Energy Star certified or energy efficient.

Condenser

Condensers are usually the cause when your air conditioner isn’t working as well as it should. The condenser is comprised of a number of parts that have to cooperate to function. The entire system may be affected when any of these components are damaged or worn out. The most frequent issues in the condenser are a damaged control board or refrigerant leaks.

The compressor moves the refrigerant into the condenser, where a fan blows cool outside air over the coils. This allows the refrigerant gas to cool, and return to a liquid form. This cooled low-pressure liquid then returns to the evaporator, where it continues the cooling process. The process is repeated until it reaches the desired temperature for your office or home.

To keep your condenser running properly, you should ensure that the area surrounding it is free of debris. Leaves, twigs, flowers, grass and other debris may be sucked 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 trees and shrubs cut back so that they don’t get in the way of the unit. This can reduce the chance that berries, branches, or nuts will fall and block the system. Clean your condenser to prolong the life of your AC system by a minimum of 1-2 years.

Evaporator

The evaporator moves warm air in your home. It is comprised of a series of tubing which is u-shaped, and set into panels. The coils are blown by air from the blower. This draws heat from indoor air and then transfers it to the refrigerant. The refrigerant’s liquid becomes an air-borne gas that is circulated through the cooling system to cool the air.

The law of thermodynamics states heat is transferred from colder to warmer objects. If the evaporator is operating properly, the energy is transferred from the refrigerant that is warm to the cold air. This causes the refrigerant to boil or evaporate. During this process the latent heat (which cannot be measured using a thermometer) is transferred from the air to the refrigerant.

These coils have been created with specific shapes that improve heat transfer. Fins are utilized to increase the surface area of the coils. Copper and aluminum are both utilized to construct Evaporators, each with distinct advantages.

A evaporator with an accumulation of organic growth is prone to issues. This can be caused by mildew or even mold. If this happens, the bacteria can produce a foul smell that spreads throughout the house. This may cause discomfort.

It is crucial to choose an evaporator that can be easily maintained and cleaned. It is also recommended to consider the working environment when selecting an evaporator. Some evaporators can stand up to harsh conditions, while others can be used in moderate conditions. In the end, you’ll want to ensure that your evaporator comes with a solid warranty to protect your investment.

Fan

Your HVAC system’s blower fan works to circulate the cold or hot air throughout your home until the thermostat setting you set is reached. The fan can be on auto or constant. We recommend that you keep the fan running continuously to maximize efficiency and reduce your electric bills. We can replace the motor of the fan in the event that it is continuously running. The new ECM motor is up to 70% more energy efficient than the old PSC motors. It is able to pay for itself over the lifespan of the unit.

If your fan is only running on high, an unbalanced circuit or a broken relay could be keeping the thermostat settings from reaching your fan.

Filter

The filter is used to circulate air in the home before it is heated or cooled. It removes impurities and keeps dust and pet dander out of the system and contaminating the internal components. It protects the family from illnesses spread by airborne pathogens. It also ensures that the system works efficiently. A dirty filter makes the system work harder and could cause it overheat or breakdown.

homeowners should change their filters frequently at least every 30 or 90 days, based on the label instructions. The homeowner should consult an HVAC professional when they aren’t sure about the kind of filter they need. A professional can assist them in choosing the best filter for their home based on climate and the amount of time they use their system, as well as personal factors such as the presence of smokers or allergies within the home.

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

Filters are rated according to their MERV rating (Minimum Effectiveness Reporting Value), which shows 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 and germs. High-MERV filters, on contrary, can capture various contaminants without restricting normal airflow.