8 Common HVAC Problems (and How to Get Them Fixed Fast!)
Is your AC blowing hot air or not turning on at all? Have you noticed loud, strange noises coming from the outside unit? Or, does your house seem to be full of humidity all the time?
These are all very common HVAC problems. And we're going to tell you how to fix them with this guide.
Also, if you didn't see your particular problem listed above, don't worry. We're about to explain several other HVAC issues and their solutions below. Read on to learn what you need to do to get your HVAC working again.
1. The Air Filter Is Full
The most common cause of any HVAC issue is a full air filter. When your air filter is full to capacity, it's completely clogged up with dust.
Then, the hot or cold air is blocked and can't get through when the fan blows. Still, the system tries very hard to keep working anyway, causing many of the problems on this list.
So, before anything else, change your air filter and see if it solves the problem. Change it again every 2-3 months.
2. The Thermostat Isn't Set Correctly
Other perceived HVAC problems are actually due to user error. For instance, your fan might be cycling constantly because it's set to "On" instead of "Auto."
Before we can troubleshoot, make sure you know how to use your thermostat. Then, test every feature of your thermostat to make sure it's working properly. If it isn't working right, replace it.
3. Your Furnace Is Out of Fuel
Here's one more DIY solution to try if your furnace is on the fritz. If you have a furnace that runs on heating oil, check the fuel reserves. Your problem might be nothing more than an empty fuel tank.
Perform all of these first three steps (filter change, thermostat test, fuel check) before continuing down this list.
4. High HVAC Bills
If your energy bills for this heating or cooling season seem way more expensive than last year, your HVAC is working too hard. This might mean that there's a clog in the air ducts or that your fan needs lubrication. change your air filter and lubricate your outdoor unit if you are comfortable doing so.
If these steps don't solve the issue, call a professional. It's likely that your HVAC is working inefficiently because it needs to be repaired or replaced. Also, an HVAC technician can remove any clogs in your ducts.
Also Read: 10 DIY HVAC Maintenance Tips for Homeowners in 2022
5. Strange HVAC Noises
There are many, many odd noises that a malfunctioning HVAC makes. Most of these require professional help. Still, here are some ideas on what these noises mean and if there's anything you can do about them.
A Very Loud HVAC
You should never hear more than a low hum from your HVAC when it runs. If you have to shout over the noise when speaking, your HVAC or some of its components may be worn out.
You can try lubricating it. Otherwise, call an HVAC professional.
A Loud Banging
One loud pop or bang noise when the system starts is usually the ducts settling. Ducts that aren't properly installed/insulated do this when they get warmer or colder.
A professional will need to insulate the ducts better or remove/reinstall them to solve this. However, as annoying as this sound is, know that it's also harmless.
Flapping or Clanking That Starts Slow and Then Speeds Up
The sound described in this title is almost always caused by debris (leaves, food wrappers, etc.) contacting the fan blade. Fortunately, you should be able to solve this yourself.
Shut down the system and try to reach and remove the debris. Then, run it again to test.
If this is unsuccessful, call in the professionals. There might be some other HVAC component in the path of the fan blade.
Metal Grinding
Shut off the system and call for emergency HVAC repair if you hear metal grinding against metal. This is usually what it sounds like: two components grinding against each other. Grinding metal causes sparks, which cause fires.
Squealing or Screeching
If you hear this noise whenever the system starts up, try lubricating the fan. Have a professional take a look at it if that doesn't help. There's probably a loose component causing the noise.
Rattling or Any Other Sounds From the Fan
Use the DIY steps above if the outdoor unit is rattling or making any other sound we didn't already mention. That is, check for debris, lube it up, etc. If these don't work, call professional HVAC repair services.
The Furnace Is Rumbling
If your furnace makes rumbling noises, it's probably having difficulty lighting. If resetting the pilot light doesn't work, get professional help to clean, fix, or replace the igniter.
Also Read: 7 Common Residential HVAC Repair Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
6. Odd Odors
There are also a lot of strange smells that can come out of your vents. Basically, all of these smells are from health-hazardous issues that only professionals can fix. Examples include burnt-out wiring, mold, or a dead animal in the system.
In other words, call it in right away.
7. HVAC Is Leaking Moisture
Moisture leaking from your system might be poorly-draining condensation. Or, it might be a potentially deadly refrigerant leak. Call for emergency HVAC service to find out for sure.
8. The HVAC Runs All the Time
If you know the thermostat is set/working correctly, your fan shouldn't be running all the time. This would mean that your HVAC is unable to heat or cool your home properly so it just keeps trying. Only a professional can diagnose and fix this issue.
9. Constant HVAC Shutdowns
When your HVAC keeps shutting down unexpectedly, there could be an electrical problem. That is, your home's circuit breaker or the HVAC's auto-shutoff feature is tripped so as to prevent an electrical overload. Cease using the system and have a professional look at it.
10. Warm AC Air
Air duct clogs and low refrigerant levels are common causes of warm AC air. Unless changing the air filter solves the issue, you need a professional to fix it.
11. Excessive Indoor Humidity
Your AC automatically dehumidifies the air as it runs. If your indoor air is always humid anyway, have an HVAC technician make sure that it's working right.
Use These Solutions or Get Help For These Common HVAC Problems
Hopefully, you're able to solve some of your common HVAC issues with the DIY solutions in this guide. But if your HVAC issue requires professional help, let us fix it. Click the "Call Us Now" button at the top of this page or contact us here so we can get started.
