Possible Reasons Why Your HVAC Stopped Working

Every HVAC system is a complicated unit of various moving parts working together. Whether you have a recently installed system or one that has served you well for many years, certain wear and tear of parts and collection of dirt is bound to happen. This can result in malfunctions in your Bay Area HVAC system.

Regular cleaning and preventive maintenance can help avoid minor issues before they turn into big repairs. Also, knowing what can go wrong inside an HVAC system and what to do in those situations, can help keep you and your system safe. Here are some possible reasons why your HVAC system ceases to function properly.

1. The air filters in the system need to be changed

In case of an HVAC malfunction, the first thing you must check is the filter. If the air filter is clogged due to dirt and debris, it prevents cool air from reaching your vents, thus, preventing your rooms to be cooled properly. Changing the air filter and restarting the unit usually solves the problem.

Filters of heaters too trap fine particles and clogged filters will not give proper warmth to your house. The heater will have to work overtime and will increase your energy costs. Change filters every few months for efficient heating and cooling.

2. The thermostat is not working correctly

The thermostat relays setting requirements and preferences to your system and the unit functions accordingly. If the thermostat is broken, wrongly set or the batteries are dead, the system cannot function. You can open the thermostat plate and check inside for loose or broken wires, battery power and dust.

3. The pilot light on your furnace is out

Older models of gas furnaces have a small flame called the pilot light which is responsible for heating. A strong gust of wind can often extinguish this flame. You need to relight the flame to get your heater working again. New models have an electric ignition source so one need not worry about the pilot light.

4. Refrigerant levels are low

The refrigerant in your air conditioner is responsible for cooling the air. Low refrigerant levels need to be checked and topped up for proper cooling. Any leaks must be repaired quickly.

5. Fans are malfunctioning

The fans that bring in outside air or expel warm air from the house can malfunction at times. A faulty motor, lack of lubrication or worn belts can result in cooling problems.

6. Evaporator coils are frozen

The evaporator coils in your system hold the refrigerant and must stay warm to circulate the coolant. Frozen evaporator coils will have ice-like build up on them and the house will receive warm air instead of cool.

7. Leakage in the ducts

All the conditioned air around the house is transported to each room through the ducts. Any leak in the ductwork will cause expensive conditioned air to be lost to the environment. Also, the system has to overwork, causing more wear and tear along with higher energy bills.