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. Its blower uses propane or natural gas to generate heat for the furnace while electricity powers the cooling components in an all-electric system.

Vents (or registers) are found in the ceiling or wall of each room. If you can keep them open to ensure that air circulation is properly distributed throughout your home.

Thermostat

The thermostat is an important part of your HVAC system. It regulates the temperature of your home by turning on and off the fan and compressor until they reach a set temperature. It also switches on the air exchanger to help bring fresh air from outside into your home, while venting old, indoor air through your ductwork.

The majority of thermostats are digital, however, some older models exist. Digital thermostats are controlled by a thermostat. This device has metals that alter resistance when the temperature changes. The thermistor is connected an microcontroller that converts changing resistance into a temperature reading. Thermostats are available in variety of styles, including programmable and smart thermostats that allow you to monitor your home’s energy consumption and make adjustments.

Thermostats can be placed on the walls of your home’s interior, usually in rooms that are most frequently used. The location of a thermostat in your home can affect its accuracy. A thermostat placed in direct sunlight, for example, may show a higher temperature than the actual room temperature. This could cause your system to run more or less. If your thermostat doesn’t work properly, try resetting the device. If this doesn’t help contact an AC technician.

If you’re considering replacing your thermostat, be sure to check out the different options available to you and consider a programmable model to reduce your energy costs. A thermostat that is programmable will automatically adjust the temperature of your home according to your schedule, rather than having you manually manipulate your HVAC system on a daily basis. You should also check to see if there is a more efficient model, such as one that is ENERGY STAR certified or energy-efficient.

Condenser

Condensers are often the culprit when your air conditioner isn’t performing properly. The condenser unit is made up of many different parts that all need to work in harmony in order for the unit to function. The entire system can be affected if any of these components are damaged or worn out. Problems with the condenser include a malfunctioning condenser control board or leaks of refrigerant.

The refrigerant gas from the compressor is pumped into the condenser, where a fan blows cool air from outside over the coils. This helps the refrigerant reduce its temperature and then transform to a liquid. The liquid that is cooled returns to the evaporator to continue the cooling process. The cycle is repeated until the desired temperature for your home or business is achieved.

The most important thing you can do to keep your condenser working properly is to make sure that the area around it is clear of debris. Leaves, twigs, flowers, grass and other debris may be carried into the unit by the condenser fan. This can create clogs that hinder the 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 will decrease the chances that berries, nuts or branches can enter the system and block it. The condenser that is free of debris can add two or three years to the life of your AC system.

Evaporator

The evaporator moves warm air in your home. It is comprised of a set of tubing that is u-shaped, and placed into panels. The air from the blower fan is blown across these coils. This draws heat from the indoor air and transfers it to the refrigerant. The liquid refrigerant is converted into a gas and circulated throughout the cooling system in order to cool the indoor air.

The law of thermodynamics states heat travels from colder to warmer objects. If the evaporator operates correctly, this heat energy is transferred from warm air to the colder refrigerant. This causes the refrigerant’s water to boil or evaporate into a gas. During this process, the latent heat (which cannot be measured using a thermometer) is transferred from the air to the refrigerant.

The coils are designed with specialized shapes that enhance heat transfer. Fins are used to increase the surface area of coils. Some evaporators are built using copper while others use aluminum, with each material providing its own set advantages.

An evaporator that is afflicted with a buildup of organic growth is susceptible to issues. This can be the result of mildew or mold. If this occurs, the bacterium will produce a smell that spreads throughout the house. This could cause discomfort.

To avoid these problems, it is essential to select an evaporator that is easily cleaned and maintained. It is also recommended to consider the working environment when selecting an evaporator. Certain evaporators are designed to endure harsh environments, whereas others can be used in moderate conditions. It is also important to make sure that your evaporator is covered by a warranty that will safeguard you and your investment.

Fan

Your HVAC system’s blower motor works to circulate the cold or hot air throughout your home until the thermostat you have set is attained. The fan can be set to auto or constant. We suggest keeping the fan on constant to maximize efficiency and save money on your electricity bill. We can replace the fan motor in the event that it is continuously running. The new ECM motor is 70 percent more efficient than the older PSC motors. It is able to pay for itself over the life of the unit.

If your fan only operates on high, the short circuit or broken relay could be preventing your thermostat from adjusting to the fan.

Filter

The filter is used to circulate the air around the house before it is heated or cool. It filters out impurities and stops dust and pet dander from getting into the system and contaminating the internal components. It also protects family members from the spread of diseases by tiny pathogens floating in the air. It also ensures that the system works efficiently. A dirty filter makes the system work harder and can cause it overheat or breakdown.

homeowners should replace their filters regularly. The label will inform the homeowner if they should replace it every 30 days or every 90 days. The homeowner should consult an HVAC professional if they are unsure of the type of filter they need. A professional can help homeowners select the appropriate filter for their home, based on factors like temperature, how often they use their system and even personal preferences, such as whether there are smokers or allergy sufferers living in the home.

The filter is usually found in the return air duct or, in some cases, the blower compartment of the furnace. The return air duct can be found on the floor, wall or ceiling, or in a storage closets, and it typically has a large metal grate that covers the filter. Ideally, the filter should be easily accessible for homeowners and service technicians to facilitate cleaning and replacement.

Filters are rated based on their MERV rating (Minimum Effectiveness Reporting Value), which shows how well they capture different sizes of particles. A low-MERV is able capture larger contaminants such as dust mites or pet dander but not fine allergens or germs. High-MERV filters can snag various contaminants without affecting the flow of air.