Did you know that over the past year, people’s electric bills have increased by nearly 20% around the country?
Heating and cooling your home is becoming expensive but is still a necessity for most people. If you want to make the most of your money and unit, you need to keep an eye out for problems that could be costing you.
Keep reading to discover the most common HVAC problems that contribute to bill increases and energy waste!
1. Clogged Filters
One of the most common HVAC problems people deal with is also the easiest to fix.
If you haven’t changed out your air filters, it’s time to buy some replacements. Over time, the dirt and dust clog the filters, impacting the efficiency of your unit. Without a clean filter, your HVAC motor has to work twice as hard to pump air through the vents.
Other issues that may stem from clogged filters include overheating and shutting off. Home cooling filters are generally cheap and you can swap them out within a minute. Wear gloves and glasses while changing them in case they are dirty and get debris in the air.
2. Dead Batteries
Many people make the mistake of paying high bills because they can’t identify the true problem.
Although your HVAC equipment is connected to your electricity, there are other components to consider. If the unit looks good but your bills are high, you should check your thermostat next. Grab the thermostat manual and make sure it’s functioning correctly.
Often, changing out the batteries can fix the problem and help your HVAC sync with the thermostat again.
3. Inability to Ignite
Home heating is critical during the winter and if you’re dealing with ignition problems, you need to get them resolved quickly.
In some instances, your pilot may just need a cleaning to ignite again. Sometimes, however, your flame sensor or burners could be causing mechanical issues. If you’re using gas furnaces, always check your gas supply and shut it off if you need to adjust anything.
Contacting HVAC technicians is important if you can’t get your pilot to light. They can assess your unit and prevent causing further damage or hazards.
4. Unsettling Noises
If you’re laying in bed one night and start hearing a hissing or screeching sound, you may want to check your HVAC unit.
Depending on your unit, some noises may be normal. However, if you can hear something strange or new, it needs to get checked. Loud noises can often indicate mechanical issues, and a technician can help put them back in place.
There are also bearings in the motors of the HVAC units, which wear down and need to get replacement over time.
Prevent HVAC Problems
A malfunctioning HVAC unit isn’t only annoying, but it can also cost you a lot of money.
By discovering the most common HVAC problems, you can keep your bills low and ensure your machine is properly working. If you can’t fix the problem with a filter or battery replacement, don’t hesitate to call a technician for help. Regular maintenance will prevent you from having to pay a lot of money at once.
If you want to learn more about heating and cooling equipment, read our blog for the latest content!
