Do you know why your HVAC is not doing well and how to avoid HVAC failure altogether? The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) does not name a single top reason for HVAC failure. However, their research and industry consensus indicate that the overarching issue with HVACs is a lack of proper maintenance. When you don’t properly maintain your HVAC system, it can quickly lead to component malfunctions, which are frequently cited as the most common issues. This article will cover the components most susceptible to failure if your system is not maintained.
Usual Components Susceptible to Issues
While any piece of your HVAC system can cause an issue, specific components are more likely to cause significant problems if your system isn’t properly maintained.
Prevent Clogged Air Filters to Avoid HVAC Failure
Your air filters keep the air in your home clean. If they have become grungy or clogged, they will restrict airflow. This makes the system work harder, raising your energy bill and stressing the blower motor and other components. Ultimately, this can lead to overheating and complete system malfunction.
Dirty Coils
One more factor to avoid HVAC failure is having dirty coils. Your HVAC system has evaporator and condenser coils. Over time, they can collect dust, grime, and dirt layers. If they are excessively dirty, they can’t transfer heat effectively. Much like the clogged air filters, this forces your system to work harder than normal. This will lead to increased energy consumption and cause parts like the compressor to fail early.
Refrigerant Leaks
The refrigerant in your HVAC system is used to cool your home. If there is a leak in the refrigerant line, it can cause a slow loss of cooling ability. ASHRAE research shows that many commercial and residential air conditioners have problems with improper refrigerant levels. If the level is too low, it forces the system to work inefficiently and can ultimately lead to a frozen evaporator coil and compressor failure.
Electrical Problems
When you get routine HVAC maintenance, the technician will look for any electrical issues. If you skip it, you can end up with corroded wiring and worn-out contactors. It can cause an electrical breakdown, which can cause the system to malfunction or completely shut down. They are also a potential fire hazard.
Clogged Condensate Lines
One of the jobs of your HVAC system is to remove moisture from the air. It then drains through a line. If you don’t properly maintain your system, this line can become clogged with algae growth and mold. This will cause the unit to leak water, which can potentially trip a safety switch that will shut off your system.
The Consequence of Neglect
You will face consequences if you don’t avoid HVAC failure. ASHRAE research has noted that a “significant amount of energy is wasted by malfunctioning or ill-maintained building systems.” Research indicates that the average commercial air conditioner operates with an airflow that is 15-25% below the ideal level. A lack of proper maintenance and upkeep often causes this. It shows why it is essential to invest in regular maintenance checks. These checks will find issues before they become a big problem and ultimately save you from costly repairs.
Avoid HVAC Failure With Capital City Comfort Solutions
While it might seem like your HVAC unit is doing fine, it is still important to schedule regular maintenance. A certified technician can find minor issues before they become big problems or identify areas where your system is working harder than it needs to be. They can then fix the issues, such as clogged air filters or refrigerant leaks, so your system runs at its best.
Do you need to schedule HVAC maintenance? Contact us today to make an appointment.