HVAC Troubleshooting: Common Problems and Solutions

It can be frustrating when your HVAC is on the fritz. There are a variety of reasons why your HVAC system may not be running properly. Fear not, because the professionals at Meade HVAC are here to help. There are multiple common issues that Meade HVAC can help you diagnose and repair. These include:

• No hot or cool air
• Poor airflow
• Strange noises
• High energy bills

Our technicians have the knowledge and tools needed to quickly troubleshoot and repair your heater, heat pump, or air conditioner quickly. Our goal is to get your system back up and running quickly so that you can go back to living comfortably.

No Cooling or Heating

The main reason why you bought your HVAC system is to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. When your unit is not producing warm or cool air, it is not doing its job.  Some common reasons why you may be experiencing a lack of hot or cool air include:

• Refrigerant issues
• Thermostat issues
• Coil issues
• Dirty filter
• Clogged/blocked registers

While the quickest, easiest, and most efficient way to get your HVAC system repaired is to call on the professionals at Meade HVAC, it is still a good idea to understand the basics of what is going on yourself. This way you can help keep your system running efficiently and help prevent a repeat of whatever issue you are experiencing.

Refrigerant Issues – Refrigerant is the medium your HVAC system uses to transport heat. If there is a leak and your refrigerant levels are low, you will likely notice that the real temperature of your home does not match the temperature you set on your thermostat. You may also notice that the air coming out of your air vents is the wrong temperature.

Refrigerant is dangerous. It can cause symptoms such as difficulty breathing, headaches, nausea and vomiting, skin or eye irritation, and coughing. Therefore, if you believe you have a refrigerant leak, it is best to call on a professional like Meade HVAC in Chester Springs to safely repair your unit.

Thermostat Issues – One part you can begin to troubleshoot on your own is the thermostat. Make sure it is set to the right settings. If it is set to ON, it will run no matter what. If it is set to OFF, it will not run at all. When it is set to AUTO, it will run in cycles when needed. For example, if it is summer and you have your thermostat set to 70 degrees, your system will only run if the temperature in your home reaches above 70 degrees. Therefore, if you are troubleshooting, you will want to pay attention to if it is set to ON or AUTO.

If your thermostat runs on batteries, you will also want to try replacing the batteries. If you have tested the settings and checked the batteries, but your system is still not functioning properly, contact Meade HVAC for assistance.

Coil Issues – If the coils on your system are dirty, worn out, or frozen, it can hinder your unit’s ability to run properly. This is why it is important to schedule preventative maintenance with Meade HVAC 1-2 times per year. Doing so will help keep your system clean and functioning properly.

Dirty Filter – Changing the filter is another task that you can perform on your own. The standard 1” filter will generally need to be changed every month. It is very important to perform this task regularly. When a filter gets too dirty, it can block the airflow. When this happens, the comfort of your home will suffer.

If dirt gets past your filter due to clogging, it can also damage the more sensitive components. If you think your system is suffering from too much dirt buildup or if you need help changing your filter, a Meade HVAC technician will be happy to assist you.

Poor Airflow

Poor airflow can have a similar effect as no hot or cold air. Both make your home uncomfortable. When you have poor airflow, you will likely notice uneven heating throughout your home. You may also notice less air coming out of your vents when you hold your hand near it. Some common causes of low airflow include:

• Dirty filter
• Air duct issues
• Vent issues
• Fan issues
• Sizing issues

Some causes can be tested on your own while others require a professional’s touch.

Dirty Filter – As mentioned above, it is very important to change your filter regularly. When the filter gets clogged, the dust impedes the flow of air. Then less air makes it through your system and into your home. If you notice this issue, try to change the filter. If you still experience issues, call on your trusted HVAC technicians at Meade HVAC in Chester Springs.

Air Duct Issues – If your air ducts get damaged or begin to leak, you may also notice low airflow. Dents and bends can trap the air while leaks allow air to escape. The best way to rectify this type of problem is to have the duct repaired or replaced.

Clogged/Blocked Registers or Ducts – Vents, and registers covered in dust can also block the flow of air. Be sure to wipe off your vents off regularly to prevent airflow issues. It is also a good idea to make sure that there is no furniture blocking your vents and return air registers. If just one room or area is experiencing temperature issues, a blocked air duct could be the cause. Contact Meade to have your air ducts inspected and cleaned. You should have your air ducts cleaned every 8-10 years.

Fan Issues – Your blower fan is responsible for pushing air through the air ducts and out into your home. If the fan gets worn out or experiences any kind of mechanical issue, you will likely end up with poor airflow. If it is sluggish due to built-up dirt or grime it may just need a good cleaning. However, if it is a mechanical issue, it may need to be replaced.

Sizing Issues – If your HVAC system is the wrong size, it may struggle to keep your home comfortable. HVAC systems that are too large short cycle and don’t run for a sufficient time to remove humidity from the air. On the other hand, if it is too small, it may run constantly and struggle to produce enough warm or cool air to bring your home to your desired temperature. If you believe that your HVAC system is the wrong size, Meade HVAC professionals can assess the situation for you and help you find the best solution.

Strange Noises

While your HVAC system will regularly make noise while it runs, some specific sounds can signal issues within your unit. It is important to learn which sounds are normal and which mean trouble so that you can catch and repair issues before they get worse. Some common sounds you will want to listen for include:

• Squealing and screeching
• Rattling, clanking, banging
• Whistling and screaming
• Buzzing
• Hissing
• Grinding

Squealing/Screeching – Squealing often means that either the bearings on the condenser fan need to be replaced or that the belt that connects the motor to the blower needs to be replaced. It is also worth noting that your HVAC system may squeal if it is the first time you have used it in a while. If this is the case, the sound will likely not last for long.

Clanking/Banging – These types of sounds typically signify that a part has come loose, usually on the blower, motor, or fan. If you notice the sound getting louder, it may mean that the part has broken off completely. The part will likely need to be replaced. Banging can also occur when pressure builds up within your air ducts.

Whistling – Whistling often means that your HVAC system is not receiving enough air back through the return air registers. This low air pressure can damage your system and increase your energy bills.

Rattling/Buzzing – Buzzing can mean a number of things including loose parts, a compressor malfunction, condenser fan motor problems, the filter needing to be changed, or that there is a refrigerant leak. The best way to quickly diagnose and put a stop to the sound is to have a Meade HVAC technician troubleshoot and fix the issue for you.

Hissing – If you hear a hissing sound coming from your HVAC system, it is definitely something you will want to get checked out as soon as possible. It could mean that you have a refrigerant leak, an internal valve leak, or a problem with your compressor.

Grinding – Grinding often means worn-out pistons in the compressor. It could also be a sign that your entire unit is failing.

High Energy Bills

There is a multitude of issues that can occur to make your HVAC system less efficient. When this happens, you will likely see an increase in your energy bills. Many of the issues that cause high energy bills are already on this list. Some common causes include:

• Dirty filter
• Leaky or damaged ducts
• Failing parts
• Lack of maintenance or old age
• Not installed properly

By ensuring that your HVAC system receives proper care, including preventative maintenance, you can help keep your energy bills low.

Dirty Filter – When your filter gets clogged, it blocks the air from flowing freely through your system. This causes your system to run longer to reach your desired temperature. When your unit runs longer, it uses more energy, and you end up paying more.

Leaky or Damaged Ducts – Similar to a dirty air filter, leaky or damaged ducts trap or lose conditioned air and cause your system to run for a longer period of time. When there is a leak, the warm or cool air will escape your air duct before it reaches the air vent. With damaged air ducts, the air gets trapped in the bends or dents.

Failing Parts – When important parts such as the compressor, capacitor, or compressor stop functioning properly, your system will struggle to carry out its functions properly. This will lead to longer cycles and higher energy bills.

Lack of Maintenance/Age – When you don’t schedule preventative maintenance, small issues will turn into major problems and affect the overall efficiency of your HVAC system. Then you end up paying more over time.

Age also plays a role in your system’s efficiency. Over time parts will naturally wear out. Then your system will have to compensate by running for a longer period of time. This raises your energy bills. Additionally, older HVAC systems generally are not as efficient as newer systems simply due to advances in HVAC technology.

Not Installed Properly – HVAC efficiency begins when it is first installed. You want to make sure that your system is the correct size for your home. If it is too large it will short cycle. If it is too small it will work overtime and wear out more quickly. Additionally, aspects such as missing parts, bad electrical connections, bad brazing or welding, and non-sealed duct connections can also cause your system to use more energy.

Get Your HVAC Repaired Today!

When you need help with any problem affecting your HVAC system, Meade HVAC is here and happy to help. With plenty of knowledge and experience in all things HVAC, we can help you keep your system running properly and efficiently. With our preventative maintenance program, we can help you keep your system clean and help you catch small problems before they turn into major issues. This way, you will experience fewer issues over time and can save more of your hard-earned cash.

If you would like to learn more about Meade HVAC’s quality services or if you have any questions, you can visit our Heating Service or Cooling Service pages. Additionally, you can call us at 610-458-8706.