Five Common HVAC Issues and How to Prevent Them

Your HVAC system is an investment in your space, whether you’re a residential or a commercial property owner. The duct system that circulates air throughout your home keeps your space warm in the winter and cool and comfortable in the summer. An effective HVAC system is one that runs efficiently, consistently, and is not a money pit.

HVAC systems should only be costing you $150-500 a year between regular tune ups and safety checks. Scheduling regular air duct cleaning keeps your HVAC system running smoothly and avoids common problems that could lead to expensive repairs.

The 5 Most Common HVAC Issues

There are common problems that can pop up in any HVAC system, leading to a decrease in performance or a total outage. These problems are often quickly fixed or avoidable with HVAC cleaning and maintenance.

  1. Dirty Filters

Dirty filters are one of the most common problems for HVAC systems not working efficiently. When dirt, lint, pet hair, and debris catches in the filter, it blocks the airflow and makes the furnace work overtime to maintain your desired temperature. Dirty filters happen when you forget to replace your filter regularly or skip air duct cleaning service and can cause your system to overheat, leading to wear that reduces your system’s lifespan.

We recommend setting a schedule to replace your filters or using a filter subscription service that will send you filters on the recommended replacement schedule. Changing filters regularly can also lower your overall energy bill, as unchanged filters can make your HVAC run longer and work harder, driving up your costs.

  1. Dirty Evaporator Coils or Condenser

Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to a drop in performance. It’s a problem commonly caused by the system’s condenser and evaporator coils becoming dirty. This is especially common in the pacific northwest due to the wet climate that promotes mold and plant growth in and around the system if it is outdoors. If you suspect your system is underperforming, call a professional air duct cleaning company for an inspection.

  1. Water Leaks and Leaky Ducts

HVAC systems produce condensation that is directed through to drainpipes. If these pipes become clogged, the water can back up in your system and leak from the unit. A commercial air duct cleaning service will clear your drains to prevent leaks. Your HVAC system can also leak air if there are any holes in the ducting or if they are not sealed properly. Leaky ducts make it harder for your system to work efficiently to achieve your desired room temperature, increasing your property’s energy bills.

  1. Dirt and Debris Build Up

Allowing dirt and debris to build up in the ducts of your HVAC system can add extra pressure to the ducts, causing long-term damage. At PNW ProClean, we often find large debris, including trash, construction materials, and even old animal carcasses, when doing a duct cleaning service for a new or recently renovated home. Getting your ducts regularly cleaned eliminates avoidable repair or replacement costs. A full replacement of your HVAC system can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $12,000 and most split systems have an average lifespan of 15 years, so don’t spend unnecessary money on premature replacements.

  1. Thermostat Malfunctions

Several common problems can arise from thermostat malfunctions. These issues are either programmable or non-programmable. You should check your thermostat when you identify a potential issue with your HVAC system to determine if it is set correctly. This is generally a much less expensive fix than something related to the duct system itself.

What is the Most Common Part to Fail on HVAC?

The most common problem with HVAC systems comes from the wiring. These wires often fall victim to corrosion, fraying, and disconnection over time. Wiring problems disrupt the power flow in your system and can result in breakdowns, short-circuiting, or the overheating of your system. Regular maintenance can help identify any wiring problems before they can cause damage or lead to expensive and unnecessary repair costs.

How to Prevent Common HVAC Problems

Scheduling regular air duct cleaning services from a professional contractor is the best way to prevent common HVAC problems. Investing in these services can save you from increased energy bills and expensive repair costs if your HVAC system breaks or has a water leak.

PNW ProClean is the leading professional air duct cleaning service in Portland, operating across the Portland metro area. As a locally owned and operated company, we take a client-driven approach to our services with advice on how to avoid common HVAC issues and save money while doing it.

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