Summers in the Panhandle get extremely hot and humid, and because of this, we’re no stranger to HVAC problems this time of year. Florida’s heat and humidity in the summer tests the durability and strength of comfort systems, working them overtime and often leading to breakdowns or premature failure. If your comfort system is struggling with the heat this summer, you should be aware of the most common summer HVAC problems and what you need to do to solve them.
1. Low Refrigerant
If your comfort system is not cooling correctly, it could be because of low refrigerant levels. While comfort systems are never supposed to “use up” refrigerant, a leak could cause low levels or even no refrigerant to be left in the system. Leaks can be caused by improper system installation, corrosion, or damage within the system.
If you suspect a refrigerant leak, it is always safest for you and your family to have a professional find the leak and repair it safely so no further damage occurs. The technicians at Shannon’s HVAC are trained to solve this problem efficiently and effectively before adding more refrigerant to the system. This way, we save you time and money, and can get you comfortable again in no time.
2. High Energy Bills
If your energy bills are through the roof, it could be because you have the thermostat set inefficiently; however, it could also be due to a problem within your comfort system. Your first step when you suspect something is to change your air filter, ensuring proper airflow without obstruction. Next, check to make sure your thermostat is set correctly. If it’s not, the fix could be as simple as changing the temperature!
If you’ve taken all the precautions above and you’re still experiencing unnecessarily high energy bills, bring in the Pensacola HVAC professionals: Shannon’s Heating & Cooling. Our technicians are trained to inspect and repair all aspects of your comfort system with the best service at a fair price.
3. Inadequate Cooling
If your home just can’t seem to cool down, there could be a multitude of reasons. Making sure your comfort system is the correct size for your home is an important first step in the process of buying a new system. If you’ve worked with an inexperienced company, you may have a system that’s too small for your home, and can’t reach the set cooling capacity.
Another culprit could be blocked return vents. Ensure all furniture, curtains, toys, and any other obstructions are not in the way of the air vents to ensure proper air flow into your home. However, the problem could also be dirty or damaged ductwork, requiring an experienced and knowledgeable technician to inspect and repair it.
If your HVAC system is supplying proper airflow throughout your home, but is still unable to keep your home cool, it might be time for a new comfort system from Shannon’s HVAC. Newer variable speed comfort systems have higher SEER levels, making them more efficient and effective than any other systems. Ask us about our most recommended HVAC systems today!
4. Outdoor Unit
It is always good to have a minimum of three feet of clearance on all sides of the outdoor system from trees, bushes, or boundaries, like fences. You should also remove any loose debris from the area, and if that doesn’t solve the problem, your fan could be to blame. If the fan in your outdoor unit has been bent or damaged, it could cause the entire system to struggle or fail. Your local HVAC dealer may need to repair or replace parts of your fan assembly to get your system working properly again.
5. Shutting Off
If your comfort system won’t stay on, it may have a problem known as short cycling. Continuing to let the system short cycle can cause damage to the compressor. Most often, this is caused by a clogged air filter or an electrical problem. It is always advisable to call a professional HVAC technician before attempting to solve an electrical problem. Trying to fix this problem on your own can cause harm to you and further damage to your system.
6. The Unit Won’t Start
If your comfort system won’t turn on, then there is likely a power issue. Check the circuit breaker and ensure the power switch for your system is in the “on” position. Believe it or not, this is a common problem that is often unchecked by homeowners before calling for repair. Also, make sure your thermostat is turned on and set correctly before calling your local HVAC contractor. If the thermostat is set to “off” or “heat,” change the settings and see if the problem is fixed.
7. Noise
A sudden increase in noise coming from your comfort system is likely very worrisome and in many cases, it should be. Screeching or squealing noises could mean a belt or motor is not properly lubricated. If the belt continues running without lubrication, further damage can occur. This problem can sometimes be solved by adding lubricant to the oil port, but it’s best to call Shannon’s HVAC to send a technician out to take a look.
A thumping, rattling, or banging noise could indicate a blower motor problem. If you hear these noises, turn off your comfort system and bring in a professional to prevent further damage. A smacking noise could indicate debris is stuck in the blades or housing. Turn off the system, remove any visible debris, and call your local HVAC contractor if the problem persists.
What’s Next?
While you may experience a few of these issues this summer, there are steps you can take to prevent more problems in the future. Follow these tips to keep your comfort system running at its best all year round.
- Sign up for a maintenance plan with Shannon’s Heating & Cooling.
- Change or clean your air filters frequently.
- Have your air ducts cleaned and inspected for damage about every 3 years.
- Upgrade to a new, variable speed comfort system.
If your air conditioner is struggling to handle the heat this summer, Shannons Heating & Cooling can help. For more helpful HVAC information, check out our other helpful articles on our website.
Feel free to call (850) 698-3101 or email us at [email protected] with any questions or inquiries, and be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
