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 electric HVAC unit runs on propane, oil, or natural gas as fuel to heat the furnace.
Each room has vents (or registers). They are situated on the ceiling or walls, or on floors. If possible keep them open to ensure air circulation is properly distributed throughout your home.
Thermostat
The thermostat is a crucial part of your HVAC system. It regulates the temperature in your home by turning on and shutting off the fan and compressor to reach a preset temperature. It also activates the exchanger to pull fresh air from outside into your home and then vent stale air through your ductwork.
The majority of thermostats are digital. However there are older models. Digital thermostats are controlled by the thermistor. The device is made of metals that alter resistance as temperatures change. The thermistor is connected to a controller converts the resistance change into a temperature. There are various kinds of thermostats that include smart and programmable thermostats. They allow you to monitor and adjust your home’s power consumption.
Thermostats are installed on the walls of your home, typically in rooms that are most frequently used. The place of your thermostat will affect its accuracy. A thermostat placed in direct sunlight, for example could show a higher temperature than the actual temperature of the room. This can cause your system to run more or less. If your thermostat isn’t operating correctly, you can try reset it however if this does not solve the issue, you should call an AC technician for help.
You should consider a programmable thermostat if you are replacing your current thermostat. You can save money on your energy bills. A thermostat that is programmable will automatically adjust the temperature of your home according to your preferences, rather than requiring you to manually manipulate your HVAC system every day. It’s also worth a look to determine if you can locate an alternative that will provide you with even greater savings on energy, like an energy-efficient or ENERGY STAR-certified thermostat.
Condenser
Condensers are often the culprit when your air conditioner isn’t functioning as well as it should. The condenser is made up of many different parts that all need to be working in sync for the unit to function. The entire system could be affected if any of these components are damaged or worn out. The most common problems found in the condenser include a malfunctioning control board or refrigerant leaks.
The refrigerant gas from the compressor is pumped into the condenser where the fan blows cool outside air over the coils. This allows the refrigerant to get cool and transform into a liquid state. The liquid that is cooled returns to the evaporator to continue the cooling process. The cycle is repeated to achieve the temperature you want for your office or home.
To ensure that your condenser is operating efficiently, make sure that the area around it is clear of debris. Leaves, twigs, flowers, grass, and other debris can be taken into the unit by the condenser’s fan and cause clogs that prevent proper operation of the cooling system. It’s also a good idea to keep the trees and shrubs trimmed so they don’t get in the way of the unit. This can reduce the chance that branches, berries or nuts will fall on the system and cause a blockage. Keeping your condenser free from debris can add 1-2 additional years to the life of your AC system.
Evaporator
The evaporator is a component that allows warm air to enter your home. It is made of a series of u-shaped tubes, which are then set into panels. The coils are blown by air from the blower. This transfers heat from the indoor atmosphere to the refrigerant. The refrigerant’s liquid becomes a gas that is circulated through the cooling system to cool your air.
The law of thermodynamics states that heat flows from colder to hot objects. When the evaporator operates correctly, the energy of heat is transferred from the refrigerant that is warm to the warm air. This causes the refrigerant’s water to boil or evaporate into a gas. In this process, the latent heat (which cannot be measured using thermometers) is transferred from the air to the refrigerant.
These coils are constructed with specific structures that aid in the transfer of heat. These are known as fins and increase the surface area to help in the transfer of heat. Certain evaporators are constructed with copper while others make use of aluminum, with each offering its own set of advantages.
One of the most common problems with an evaporator is the accumulation of organic growth. This can be caused by mold or mildew. If this is the case, the sour odors produced by the bacteria will be spread throughout the home and can cause discomfort.
To avoid these issues, it’s essential to select an evaporator that is easily cleaned and maintained. It is also recommended to consider the environment you will be working in when choosing an evaporator. Some are built to withstand harsh conditions, while others can work well in moderate environments. You should also ensure that your evaporator is protected by a warranty which will protect you and your investment.
Fan
The blower fan of your HVAC system circulates hot or cold air in your home until you reach the temperature setting. The fan can be turned on auto or constant. We recommend keeping the fan on at all times for maximum efficiency and to cut down on electricity costs. We can replace the motor of the fan in the event that it is continuously running. The new ECM motor is up to 70 percent more efficient than the old PSC motors. It pays for itself over the life of the unit.
If your fan only runs on high, an unbalanced circuit or a malfunctioning relay could be preventing the thermostat settings from reaching your fan.
Filter
The filter is used to circulate the air throughout the house before it is heated or cooling. It eliminates impurities and also stops dust and pet dander from entering into the system to contaminate internal components. It also shields family members from illnesses spread by tiny pathogens that float in the air. It also ensures that the system is functioning properly. A dirty filter causes the system to perform more efficiently, which could cause it to overheat and break down.
homeowners should replace their filters on a regular basis. The label will tell them whether they should do it every 30 days or every 90 days. If a homeowner isn’t certain which kind of filter they should use, they should consult an HVAC professional. A professional can assist homeowners choose the right filter for their home, based on factors like the climate, the frequency they use their system, and even personal factors for instance, whether there are smokers or allergy sufferers in the home.
The filter is situated in the return air duct or in certain cases, the blower compartment, of the furnace. The return air duct is normally placed on the wall, ceiling or floor, or in the utility closet. It typically has a large metal grille that protects the filters. The filter should be accessible to both homeowners and technicians for easy cleaning and replacement.
Filters are rated according to their MERV rating (Minimum Effectiveness Reporting Value) which indicates how well they are able to capture different sizes of particles. A filter with a low MERV rating is able to remove larger particles such as dust mites and pet dander however it’s not as efficient in catching small allergens or germs. High-MERV filters, on contrary, are able to capture various contaminants without limiting airflow.