HVAC systems help keep homes cool during the summer heat. However, the demand on your unit to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures significantly rises at such times, increasing the possibility of system failures or breakdowns. Understanding the heating and cooling system issues you’ll likely experience during the hot months can help you prepare better. Outlined below are four common HVAC problems in summer.
1. Poor Airflow
Poor airflow is a common HVAC issue during summer. It influences indoor air quality, temperature regulation, and overall well-being. However, catching air circulation issues early enough isn’t always possible. Their effects may take time to become apparent. Signs you might have poor airflow include:
- High humidity
- Excess dust accumulation
- Uneven temperatures throughout your home
- Bad odors
Poor air circulation in your HVAC system can be due to the following:
- Dirty condenser coils: Condenser coils are usually kept outdoors, increasing the possibility of accumulating debris, dirt, and dust. This can block air circulation
- Clogged air filters: Since air filters are meant to catch dust and other air pollutants, it may lead to the air handler getting clogged, blocking the free flow of air
- Ductwork leaks: If your ducts have unsealed seams or gaps, it causes some of the cooled air to escape, leading to poor air circulation
Professional cooling repairs or maintenance services can help address these issues, improving airflow.
2. Compressor Failure
HVAC system compressor failures are common during summer. Since an AC compressor already releases a lot of heat, the summer heat adds more pressure to the heating and cooling unit, leading to compressor failure. If your compressor overheats, its electrical components will likely melt and even cause the insulation to deteriorate. Considering that hot air retains more water, the issue worsens during the warmer months because a lot of moisture ends up in the HVAC, making the compressor fail.
Excess summer heat causes lubricants and oils to start breaking down, leading to excessive wear and tear damage. Regularly inspecting compressor components and replacing broken or cracked parts can help ensure effective HVAC functioning throughout the summer.
3. Clogged or Dirty Air Filters
Clogged or dirty air filters are a primary can impact your HVAC system’s functionality. They cause your unit to run at a reduced efficiency, meaning it will no longer cool your home as effectively as it should. Dirty or clogged air filters can result in:
- Contaminated air: If your AC isn’t functioning optimally, your indoor air becomes stagnated and unhealthy, leading to or worsening respiratory issues
- Overheating: Clogged air filters force your HVAC system to overwork to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, putting excess pressure on the equipment and causing it to overheat
- Uncomfortable temperatures: Since dirty air filters impact your AC’s functionality, the air inside won’t cool to your desired level, reducing indoor comfort
- High energy usage: Clogged filters make your HVAC work more than it should, raising energy consumption and electric bills
Ensure your AC’s filters are cleaned or replaced before summer begins for optimal function.
4. Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant absorbs heat and facilitates air dehumidification and cooling. If your unit isn’t cooling your house or has challenges maintaining temperature, it could be due to a refrigerant leak. This causes short cycling, reduced cooling output, and high utility bills. Call an HVAC specialist immediately if you notice any signs of a refrigerant leak. Doing a leak check on each service call can help prevent the risk of a refrigerant leak.
Endnote
HVAC systems are highly likely to fail during the warmer months, causing discomfort. Understanding the common summer HVAC problems, including poor airflow, clogged air filters, and more, can help you find ways to prevent them.
