5 Common HVAC Problems That Require an Expert

As a homeowner, you want your home to be a comfortable haven from the heat, cold, and humidity of the outdoors. When your HVAC system isn't working properly, your home can feel more like a sauna or an icebox. If you're having trouble with your HVAC system, you need to call a qualified technician who can diagnose and repair the problem. Discover some common HVAC problems that require an expert.

1. Pilot and Ignition Problems

The pilot light is a tiny flame that lights the burner in a furnace. It ignites the burners when temperatures fall too low. Sometimes, the pilot light can go out due to a draft, a power outage, or simply because it needs to be relit.

In other cases, the problem may lie with the ignition system. This problem is best left to a qualified technician, as it can be dangerous to attempt to repair it yourself. A wrong move could result in a gas leak or a fire.

2. Tripped Breakers and Blown Fuses

An HVAC system requires a lot of power to run. In most cases, it demands a dedicated circuit. If the HVAC system is on the same circuit as other appliances, such as the washing machine or dryer, it can cause the breaker to trip often. This is usually due to a surge in power when the HVAC system turns on.

But even if the HVAC system has its own dedicated circuit, it can still blow a fuse. This is usually caused by a short in the system or other factors such as an overheating compressor. When the unit is overheating, it draws more power than usual, leading to tripped breakers and blown fuses. Given that this is a complex problem, DIY repairs are not recommended.

3. Strange HVAC Noises

Strange noises coming from your HVAC system can be concerning. While some sounds may be harmless, others could indicate a serious problem. Some of the noises you may hear coming from your HVAC system include the following.

Grinding

Grinding could be a sign that your motor mounts are worn out or that your fan blades are hitting something.

Screeching

A loose belt usually causes a screeching noise. If the belt isn't tightened or replaced, it could eventually break, causing major damage to your system.

Rattling

Loose parts, such as fan blades or heat exchangers, could cause rattling in your system. If left unaddressed, this could lead to bigger problems down the road.

Clanking

Clanking typically indicates that there is something metal-on-metal contact happening inside your system. 

If you hear any of these noises, don't ignore them. Call an expert immediately to diagnose the problem, and get it fixed before it leads to further damage.

4. Water Leaks

Water leaks can occur in various parts of the system, including the condensate line, evaporator coil, and incoming water line. While a small amount of leakage is normal, excessive leaking can lead to significant damage. 

5. Dirty Condenser or Evaporator Coils

When these coils become clogged with dirt and dust, they can no longer effectively transfer heat. As a result, your HVAC system will have to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, leading to higher energy bills and reduced lifespan. If you notice your energy bills rising or that your HVAC system isn't keeping your home as comfortable as it used to, you may have evaporator or condenser issues.

These are some of the most common HVAC problems that require an expert. Some of them can lead to further damage if left unchecked. The sooner you contact an expert, the better. If you notice any of them, contact us at Central York today. We'll be happy to help.