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 create heat for the furnace, while electricity powers the cooling components in an all-electric unit.

Each room has vents (or registers). They are located on the ceiling or walls, or on floors. They should be kept open to allow proper air flow throughout your home.

Thermostat

A thermostat is among the most important parts of your HVAC system. It regulates the temperature in your home by turning off and on the fan and compressor until they achieve a specific temperature, and it also switches on the air exchanger in order to pull fresh, outside air into your home while venting old, indoor air through your ductwork.

The majority of thermostats are digital, although some older models still exist. Digital thermostats use a device called a thermistor which is made up of metals that change electrical resistance as changes in temperature. The thermistor, which is connected to a control unit, converts the resistance change into a temperature. Thermostats come in a variety of options including programmable and intelligent thermostats that let you track your home’s energy usage and adjust it accordingly.

Thermostats are often placed on the walls of your home’s interior, typically in the rooms that are most often used. The place of your thermostat will affect its accuracy. A thermostat placed in direct sunlight, for instance it could display a higher temperature than the actual room temperature. This can cause your system to run more or less. If your thermostat isn’t working correctly, try reset it but if that does not solve the issue it is recommended to contact an AC technician for help.

If you’re considering replacing your thermostat, be sure to check out the various options available for you and consider the possibility of a programmable thermostat to save money on your energy costs. A thermostat that is programmable will automatically adjust the temperature of your home according to your schedule, instead of requiring you to manually manipulate your HVAC system on a daily basis. You should also see if there is an energy-efficient model, like one that is ENERGY A STAR-certified or energy-efficient.

Condenser

When your air conditioning isn’t functioning as efficiently as it is supposed to, one of the most frequent causes can be found in your condenser. The condenser is made up of a number of parts that have to be in sync to make the unit function. The entire system can be affected when any of these components are damaged or worn out. The most frequent issues in the condenser are damaged control board or leaks of refrigerant.

The refrigerant gas produced by the compressor is pumped into the condenser where fans blow cool outside air over the coils. This allows the refrigerant gas to cool, and return to a liquid form. The liquid that is cooled returns to the evaporator where it continues the cooling process. The process is repeated until the desired temperature in your home or business is reached.

To ensure that your condenser runs properly, you should ensure that the area around it is clear of debris. Leaves, twigs and flowers grass, and other debris can be taken into the unit by the condenser’s fan and cause clogs that prevent proper operation of the cooling system. It’s a good idea also to keep the trees and shrubs well-trimmed so that they don’t get in the way of the unit. This will reduce the chance that nuts, berries or branches can enter the system and clog it. Keeping your condenser free from debris can add 1-2 additional years to the life of your AC system.

Evaporator

The evaporator moves warm air in your home. It is comprised of a series of u-shaped tubes that are arranged into panels. The coils are blown by air from the blower. This transfer heat from the indoor environment to the refrigerant. The liquid refrigerant becomes a gas that is circulated through the cooling system to cool your air.

The law of thermodynamics states heat is transferred from colder objects to warmer ones. If the evaporator operates correctly, this heat energy passes from the warm air to the refrigerant that is colder. The refrigerant gas causes to vaporize or boil. In this process, heat that is not measured using a thermometer, known as latent heat is transferred from the air to the refrigerant.

The coils are designed with specialized shapes that enhance heat transfer. They are referred to as fins and increase the surface area to help in the transfer of heat. Some evaporators are made of copper, while others are made of aluminum, each providing its own set advantages.

An evaporator that has a buildup of organic growth is susceptible to problems. This can be caused by mildew or mold. If this is the case, the foul odors produced by the bacteria will be spread throughout the house and could cause discomfort.

To avoid these problems, it is crucial to choose an evaporator that is easily cleaned and maintained. It is also a good idea to consider the environment in which you work when choosing an evaporator. Some are built to withstand harsh conditions while others can be used in moderate conditions. It is also important to ensure that your evaporator is protected by a warranty which will safeguard you and your investment.

Fan

The fan that blows air in your HVAC system circulates hot or cold air throughout your home until you reach the thermostat setting. The fan can be set to auto or constant. We suggest keeping the fan on constant to maximize efficiency and reduce your electricity bills. If your system’s fan is constantly running We can replace it with a brand new ECM blower motor that is up to 70% more efficient than old PSC motors and will pay for itself in savings over the life of the unit.

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

Filter

Air passes through the filter before it is heated or cooled before being circulated throughout the home. It removes impurities and keeps dust and pet dander from getting into the system and contaminating internal components. It also shields family members from illnesses spread by tiny pathogens floating in the air. It also ensures that the system is operating efficiently. A dirty filter causes the system to perform more efficiently, which could cause it to overheat and break down.

Homeowners should replace their filters regularly. The label will inform the homeowner if they should replace it every 30 days or every 90 days. If a homeowner isn’t sure which kind of filter they should use they should talk to an HVAC professional. A professional can help them select the most appropriate filter for their home based on climate and the amount of time they use their system, and other personal factors like the presence of allergies or smokers in the house.

The filter is typically located at the return air duct or, in certain cases, in the blower compartment of the furnace. The return air duct is typically placed on the ceiling, wall or floor of the storage closets. It usually is covered by a large metal grille that protects the filters. The filter is accessible to homeowners and service technicians in order to facilitate cleaning and replacement.

Filters are rated by the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating, which shows how efficient they are at taking in different sizes of particles. A low-MERV is able take on larger contaminants like dust mites or pet dander but not fine allergens and germs. High-MERV filters on the other hand, can catch a wide range of contaminants without restricting normal airflow.