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Table of Contents

1. Dealing with Poor Airflow

2. Inconsistent Heating or Cooling

3. How to Handle a Noisy HVAC System

4. Addressing High Energy Bills

5. What to Do When Your HVAC System Won't Turn On

6. Understanding and Preventing HVAC System Short Cycling

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Understanding 6 Common Heating and Air Conditioning Problems in 2024

Updated Mar. 18, 2024Kimberly Hillegass4 min read
Common Heating and Air Conditioning Problems

Your home's heating and air conditioning helps keep your family comfortable all year round. However, like any other system, it's not immune to problems. Being aware of common heating and air conditioning failures can save you from major headaches down the line. In this article, we'll explore six frequent HVAC issues and provide expert advice on how to address them. We'll cover everything from poor airflow and inconsistent heating or cooling to a noisy HVAC system and high energy bills. Whether your HVAC system won't turn on or you're dealing with frequent system cycling, we've got you covered.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Replace your AC air filter regularly to prevent air flow problems that can cause uneven heating and cooling.
  • Check your owner’s manual for troubleshooting tips when you experience heating or cooling problems.
  • Clearing a clogged condensate drain or replacing a bad capacitor can restore AC cooling quickly in the summer.

1. Dealing with Poor Airflow

Problems with airflow can affect the efficiency of your HVAC system, leading to a host of issues. This section will help you understand the causes, effects, and solutions for poor airflow, ensuring your HVAC system works at its best.

Common causes of poor airflow include a clogged or dirty air filter and blocked vents. Over time, dust and debris can accumulate in the filter, obstructing the airflow and reducing the system's efficiency. Blocked or closed air vent can also lead to air flow problems and poor HVAC performance. Poor airflow can lead to increased energy consumption, higher utility bills, and uneven heating or cooling in your home.

To enhance the airflow in your HVAC system, ensure you regularly check and replace your air filters. If you notice persistent airflow issues, schedule HVAC service and we’ll send you a service technician who can identify and fix any underlying problems.

2. Inconsistent Heating or Cooling

Uneven temperature distribution in your home can be frustrating. Various factors could cause this, including improper insulation and issues with your HVAC system. Regular maintenance and tracking temperature variations in your home can help identify and resolve these problems. Also, scheduling regular maintenance can help prevent temperature variations, ensuring consistent comfort throughout your home.

3. How to Handle a Noisy HVAC System

Unusual noises from your HVAC system can indicate potential issues. Understanding what these noises mean can help you troubleshoot the problem or know when to seek professional help. Some of the common noises include rattling or vibrating sounds, banging noises, screeching sounds, and clicking noises. To troubleshoot, you can:

  • Check for loose parts.
  • Clean or replace air filters.
  • Lubricate moving parts.
  • Check fan blades for obstructions.

Check your owner’s manual for additional tips on preventing noises. If the noise persists, it's best to seek professional help.

4. Addressing High Energy Bills

High energy bills can be a concern for many homeowners. Various factors, including improper maintenance and outdated equipment, can contribute to increased energy consumption. Regular maintenance and upgrading to energy-efficient systems can help reduce your utility bills. Also, simple steps like cleaning or replacing air filters, ensuring doors and windows are sealed, and using ceiling fans can help lower your energy usage.

If you have an outdated system and need a new unit, schedule an appointment with a Sears Home Services HVAC Expert to begin the replacement process.

5. What to Do When Your HVAC System Won't Turn On

When your HVAC system won't turn on, it can be frustrating and uncomfortable. Various issues could cause this, including:

  • Power supply problems.
  • Thermostat issues.
  • Faulty wiring.
  • Clogged air filters.
  • Failed capacitor.
  • Clogged condensate drain.

Following a few troubleshooting steps can help identify and resolve these issues. For example, when the air conditioner won’t start and water is dripping from below the inside unit, you can almost bet that the condensate drain is clogged and a tripped float switch is preventing the air conditioner from working. In that situation, follow the troubleshooting steps described in this DIY video to get your air conditioner working again:

However, if the problem persists or if you're unsure about any of the steps, schedule repair service and we’ll send a Sears Home Services HVAC Technician to your home to get your AC working again in no time.

6. Understanding and Preventing HVAC System Short Cycling

Short cycling, or frequent system cycling, can affect your HVAC system's performance and energy efficiency. It can be caused by an improperly sized system, a malfunctioning thermostat, a dirty air filter, or a refrigerant leak. Proper sizing and regular maintenance can help prevent short cycling, ensuring your HVAC system operates efficiently.

If you haven’t scheduled your system for maintenance recently, set up that service now and we’ll send an HVAC technician to your home to tune up your heating and cooling system. The tech will get your unit in top shape and discuss any problems that could be causing short cycling such as an undersized unit.

If you need to replace your HVAC unit, schedule a free consultation with a Sears Home Services Heating & Cooling Expert. We’ll discuss options for replacing your system and provide financing options to help you get the job done.

At Sears Home Services, we want to help you manage your home wisely and keep your family comfortable.

Schedule your HVAC repair now!

Rely on our skilled technicians to diagnose and repair your HVAC equipment, ensuring optimal comfort in your home.

Call (213) 596-2538 or schedule online now.

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