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 or 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. You should keep them open to allow the proper circulation of air throughout your home.

Thermostat

A thermostat is among the most vital components of your HVAC system. It regulates your home’s temperature by turning off and on the compressor and fan until they attain a certain temperature, and it also activates the air exchanger to pull fresh, outside air into your home while venting old, indoor air through your ductwork.

The majority of thermostats are digital, however, some older models exist. Digital thermostats are controlled by the thermistor. The device is made of metals that alter resistance as temperature changes. The thermistor, connected to a controller converts the resistance change into temperature. There are many types of thermostats that include smart and programmable thermostats. They let you control and alter your home’s energy consumption.

Thermostats can be placed on the walls of your home’s interior. They are usually in rooms that are most frequently used. The location of your thermostat can affect its accuracy. A thermostat located 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 operating correctly, try resetting it but if that does not solve the issue it is recommended to contact an AC technician for assistance.

You should consider a programmable thermostat if you are replacing your current thermostat. You’ll reduce your energy costs. A thermostat that is programmable will automatically adjust the temperature of your home according to your preferences, rather than needing you to manually operate your HVAC system each day. It’s also worth checking to determine if you can locate a better model that can offer you even more energy savings, such as an energy-efficient or ENERGY STAR-certified thermostat.

Condenser

Condensers are usually the cause when your air conditioner isn’t working as well as it should. The condenser is comprised of several components that be in sync to ensure that the unit functions. If any of these components are damaged or worn out, the entire system could be affected. Condenser issues can include a damaged control board for the condenser, or leaks of refrigerant.

The refrigerant gas produced by the compressor is pushed into the condenser, where the fan blows cool outside air over the coils. This helps the refrigerant cool down and convert back into a liquid state. This low-pressure liquid is then removed and cooled before being moved back into the evaporator to continue cooling. The process is repeated until the desired temperature for your home or business is reached.

To ensure that your condenser runs correctly, you must ensure that the area around it is clean of any debris. Leaves, twigs, flowers, grass, and other debris can be taken into the unit by the condenser fan. This can cause clogs that prevent proper operation of the cooling system. It is important to keep the bushes and trees cut back so that they don’t encroach on the unit. This reduces the likelihood that berries, nuts or branches will get into the system and clog it. Keep your condenser clean to prolong the lifespan of your AC by 1-2 years.

Evaporator

The evaporator is the component that allows warm air to enter your home. It is made of a string of tubing which is shaped like a U and then formed 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 is converted into a gas and circulated throughout the cooling system to cool the indoor air.

The thermodynamics law states that heat moves from hotter to colder objects. If the evaporator operates correctly, this heat energy is transferred from warm air to the refrigerant that is colder. This causes the refrigerant gas to vaporize or boil. During 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 special structures that enhance the transfer of heat. Fins are used to increase the surface area of the coils. Both aluminum and copper are used to build some evaporators, each having distinct advantages.

An evaporator that has an accumulation of organic growth is prone to issues. This can be caused by mildew or mold. If this is the case, the sour smells caused by the bacteria will be circulated throughout the home and can cause discomfort.

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

Fan

Your HVAC system’s blower fan functions to circulate the cool or hot air through your home until the thermostat you set is reached. The fan can be on auto or constant. We recommend keeping the fan on at all times for maximum efficiency and to cut down on electricity bills. If your system’s fan keeps running We can replace it with a brand new ECM blower motor which is up to 70% more efficient than old PSC motors and will pay for itself in savings over the duration of the unit.

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

Filter

The air passes through the filter before being warmed or cooled, and then circulated around the home. It filters out impurities and stops dust and pet dander out of the system and contaminating internal components. It also shields family members from illnesses spread by tiny pathogens floating in the air. It also ensures the system is operating efficiently. A dirty filter causes the system to perform more efficiently, which could cause it to overheat and ultimately break down.

homeowners should change their filters frequently at least every 30 days or 90 days, depending on the label instructions. If a homeowner isn’t sure which kind of filter they need, they should consult an HVAC professional. A professional can help homeowners choose the right filter for their home, depending on factors such as climate, how often they use their system, and even personal preferences, like whether there are allergy or smokers sufferers living in the home.

The filter is usually found at 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 utility closet, and it often contains a large metal grate which covers the filter. The filter should be accessible to homeowners and technicians for easy cleaning and replacement.

Filters are rated according to their MERV rating (Minimum Effectiveness Reporting Value), which shows how well they can capture various sizes of particles. A low-MERV filter is able to remove larger particles such as pet dander and dust mites however it’s not as effective at catching fine allergens or germs. High-MERV filters, on other hand, can catch a wide range of contaminants without limiting normal airflow.