Houston is known for its hot and humid summers, and with that comes a unique set of HVAC problems. As temperatures soar, it’s important to be aware of the common HVAC issues that may arise during the summer months.
1. Low Refrigerant Levels
When the refrigerant levels in your HVAC system become too low, it can lead to a variety of issues. Your system may not be cooling as efficiently as it should, or it may be blowing warm air. Low refrigerant levels can also cause your system to freeze up, leading to further problems. To ensure your system is running at peak efficiency, it’s important to have the refrigerant levels checked regularly.
2. Clogged Air Filters
Air filters are an essential part of your HVAC system, as they help to remove dust, dirt, and other particles from the air. If the air filters become clogged, it can lead to a variety of issues. It can cause your system to run inefficiently, resulting in expensive energy bills. It can also make the air quality in your home suffer, as the air filters are not able to do their job properly. Replace air filters every 30 to 90 days to avoid these problems.
3. Dirty Coils
The coils in your HVAC system are responsible for helping to cool the air. If the coils become dirty, it can lead to a variety of issues. The air may not be cooled as efficiently, leading to pricier energy bills. It can also cause ice to form in your system, which could potentially ruin costly components and lead to a breakdown. Your system's coils should be cleaned by a professional once a year to avoid these issues.
4. Leaky Ducts
Leaky ducts can lead to a variety of problems. If the ducts are not sealed properly, it can lead to energy loss, as the cooled or heated air is not able to be contained within the ducts. It can also result in higher energy bills, as the system is not able to perform as efficiently as it should. To ensure your system is running at peak efficiency, you should have the ducts inspected annually and sealed if necessary.
5. Faulty Thermostats
The thermostat is the control center of your HVAC system. If it’s not working properly, it can lead to multiple issues, like lower efficiency and higher heating and cooling costs. It can also lead to temperature fluctuations, as the thermostat is not able to accurately control the temperature in your home. A technician should inspect your thermostat yearly and recalibrate it if necessary to prevent the issues above.