Why Regular HVAC Maintenance Bellaire is Essential for Optimal Performance
The quote, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” is attributed to Thomas Lance, a Carter-era bureaucrat about government agencies. Practical-minded folks like to use this phrase about all sorts of things, but if it is used to ignore maintenance tasks, it is used incorrectly. A mechanical device that is currently running well will not continue to run well without regular maintenance. This is indeed true concerning heating, ventilation, and HVAC Maintenance Bellaire.
Technicians who complete preventative maintenance on HVAC systems find a myriad of problems while the system continues to run. Some of these problems affect performance, some affect energy efficiency, and some affect indoor air quality. Here are the top ten problems found by technicians during maintenance visits.
- Dirty air filters. Changing the air filter is incredibly easy. It is also often neglected by homeowners. A clogged air filter restricts airflow through the system, impacting how well the system can complete the heating or cooling tasks. The whole system is working harder because of a dirty filter.
- Ignition problems. With natural gas furnaces, a precise mixture of gas and oxygen must be ignited immediately to begin the combustion process for producing heat. When the mixture is incorrect, the flame will burn yellow instead of blue. When the ignition is delayed, the furnace will interrupt the flow of gas, and the furnace will not cycle on; it may take a couple of tries before ignition happens. These may happen without the homeowner knowing.
- Refrigerant leaks. Air conditioners and heat pumps both use a refrigerant to transfer heat. Should the refrigerant gas leak from the sealed network, the system will not perform.
- Dirty coils. The refrigerant gas transfers heat via two networks of tubes and fins, called coils. The condenser coil is located outdoors, and the evaporator coil is found inside the central cabinet. When dust, dirt, pollen, or grass clippings collect on the coils it interferes with the transfer of heat.
- Malfunctioning thermostat. The thermostat is the switch that turns the HVAC system on and off. The computer board that powers the whole system is battery-powered and the batteries need to be changed regularly. Occasionally, the thermostat glitches, causing sensor and setting variations. The need to recalibrate the thermostat might not be evident. Homeowners may compensate by constantly adjusting the temperature setting to achieve comfort.
- Continuous cycling. When an HVAC system cycles off and quickly cycles on again, it can indicate a variety of problems. If the cycling is new, it may indicate the thermostat or other control mechanisms need to be replaced.
- Unusual noises or smells. HVAC sounds blend into the background noise of the households. When a new sound begins or a normal sound becomes unusually loud, it indicates a problem. If it is not noticed right away, it, too, may blend into the household background. However, these noises will not go away on their own.
The air that comes out of the vents should be composed of the same air inside the house. If a new smell arises, it indicates a problem. Again, if it is ignored for a while, it can fade into the “normal” smells of the home, but they will not go away on their own.
- Poor airflow. During a heating or cooling cycle, the entire volume of air passes through the system every few minutes. When airflow is restricted in certain zones or is less than normal throughout the home, it indicates that something is blocking the air. It can be as simple as finding a blocked vent or as complex as a broken piece of ductwork.
- Blower motor problems. The blower motor is responsible for moving all the air. It works very hard, and it needs regular care. Blower motors are often belt-driven and over time, the belt will wear, crack, and eventually break. This developing problem may not become evident until it breaks and ceases to function.
- Poor performance. The whole HVAC system has performance specifications, and the technician will be able to test and determine whether the system is functioning according to specifications. Repairs or replacement may be required.
Why HVAC Maintenance Bellaire is Essential for Efficiency and Longevity
Regular HVAC Maintenance Bellaire is crucial to ensure optimal system performance and prevent costly issues. Common problems found during HVAC Maintenance Bellaire include dirty filters, refrigerant leaks, malfunctioning thermostats, and airflow blockages, which can affect efficiency and indoor air quality. Addressing these issues early through preventative care can extend the life of the system, improve energy efficiency, and maintain comfort in the home.
Northwind Air Conditioning and Heat can help answer your HVAC maintenance questions for your home. Contact us and get the help you need.
