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 uses propane, oil, or natural gas to heat the furnace.

Vents (or registers) are located in the ceiling or wall of each room. They should be kept open as much as you can to ensure the proper circulation of air throughout your home.

Thermostat

A thermostat is one of the most vital components of your HVAC system. It regulates the temperature of your home by turning on and off the compressor and fan until they attain a certain temperature, and it also turns on the air exchanger to help bring fresh air from outside into your home while exchanging stale indoor air through your ductwork.

The majority of thermostats are digital. However older models are available. Digital thermostats utilize a device called a thermistor made of metals that alter electrical resistance with temperature changes. The thermistor, which is connected to a controller converts the resistance change into temperature. There are various kinds of thermostats including smart and programable thermostats. They let you monitor and adjust your home’s power consumption.

Thermostats are placed on the walls of your home, usually in rooms that are most frequently used. The place of a thermostat within your home can affect its accuracy. For instance, a thermostat located in direct sunlight could read hotter than the actual temperature of the room which can cause your system to run excessively or not operate at all. If your thermostat isn’t working correctly, try resetting your device. If this doesn’t solve the problem contact an AC technician.

If you’re considering replacing your thermostat, be sure to check out the different options available for you and think about a programmable model to reduce your energy costs. A programmable model will automatically adjust the temperature of your home to your preferences, rather than requiring you to manually manipulate your HVAC system each day. You should also see if there is a more efficient model, such as one that is ENERGY STAR certified or energy-efficient.

Condenser

If your air conditioner 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 several components that cooperate to ensure that the unit functions. The entire system could be affected if any of these components are damaged or worn out. Condenser issues can include a damaged control board for the condenser, or leaks of refrigerant.

The refrigerant gas from the compressor is pushed into the condenser where the fan blows cool air from outside over the coils. This allows the refrigerant gas to cool, and return to a liquid state. This liquid at low pressure is chilled and then returned to the evaporator to continue the cooling process. The process repeats until it reaches the temperature you want for your home or office.

To ensure that your condenser runs efficiently, make sure that the area around it is clear of debris. The condenser’s fans can pull leaves, twigs and other debris into the unit, creating clogs and hindering the cooling system from functioning efficiently. It is recommended to keep trees and bushes cut back so that they don’t encroach on the unit. This will reduce the chance that berries, nuts or branches enter the system and cause clogging. Keeping your condenser free from debris can add 1-2 additional years to the lifespan of your AC system.

Evaporator

The evaporator circulates warm air inside your home. It is made of a series of u-shaped tubes that are set into panels. Air from the blower fans is blown over these coils. This draws heat from the indoor air and then transfers it to the refrigerant. The refrigerant liquid is transformed into a gas and circulated throughout the cooling system to cool the indoor air.

The law of thermodynamics states that heat moves from hotter to colder objects. When the evaporator functions correctly, the heat energy is transferred from the refrigerant that is warm to the warm air. This causes the refrigerant’s water to boil or evaporate into gas. In 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 specialized structures that improve the transfer of heat. These are known as fins, and expand the surface area to facilitate the transfer of heat. Copper and aluminum are both used to make Evaporators, each with distinct advantages.

An evaporator that has a buildup of organic growth can be prone to problems. This can be the result of mildew or mold. If this happens, the bacterium will produce a smell that spreads throughout the house. This could cause discomfort.

It is crucial to choose an evaporator that can be easily maintained and cleaned. When selecting an evaporator it is crucial to consider the working environment. Some evaporators can endure harsh environments, whereas others can be used in moderate environments. You will also want 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 cold or hot air throughout your home until you reach the temperature setting. The fan can be turned on auto or constant. We recommend that you keep the fan running continuously to maximize efficiency and reduce your electricity bill. If your system’s fan is continuously running, we can replace it with a new ECM blower motor that is up to 70% more efficient than old PSC motors and pays for itself in savings over the duration of the unit.

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

Filter

The filter is used to circulate air in the home before it is heated or cool. It removes impurities and also stops dust and pet dander from getting into the system to contaminate internal components. It shields the family from illness spread by airborne pathogens. It also ensures that the system is operating efficiently. A dirty filter makes the system work harder and can cause it overheat or breakdown.

Homeowners should replace their filters on a regular basis. The label will tell the homeowner if they should replace it every 30 days or every 90 days. If a homeowner isn’t certain which type of filter they require, they should consult an HVAC professional. A professional can assist them in selecting the right filter for their home based on the climate and how often they use their system, and personal factors such as the presence of allergies or smokers in the house.

The filter is typically located in the return air duct or in some cases, the blower compartment of the furnace. The return air duct may be found on the wall, floor or ceiling, or even in the utility closet, and it typically has a large metal grate that covers the filter. The filter is accessible to homeowners and service technicians in order to facilitate cleaning and replacement.

Filters are evaluated based on their MERV rating (Minimum Effectiveness Reporting Value) which reveals how well they can capture various sizes of particles. A low-MERV is able take on larger contaminants like dust mites and pet dander but not fine allergens or germs. High-MERV filters can snag a variety of contaminants, but it doesn’t affect the flow of air.