Your home is a significant investment, and you want to be sure that you know how to protect that investment. Keeping yourself up-to-date on common homeowner issues is one way to ensure you’re prepared for anything. Understanding the top five problems with residential HVAC systems, for example, will allow you to quickly remedy any that occur.

Problematic Thermostats

Thermostats are one of the top problems with residential HVAC systems, and it’s usually down to user error. Sometimes, the error is with installation or programming but often, it’s simply a matter of misunderstanding of how it works.

One of the most common errors is turning the thermostat to “on” to trigger the heat or AC. This normally just turns on the whole-house fan. Set the thermostat to “AUTO” and then set the appropriate temperature to trigger the AC or heat.

Smart thermostats often result in a confused homeowner. Take the time to understand how to use the controls. Wi-Fi thermostats suffer from blocked signals, so make sure it is getting a strong connection if the system isn’t turning on and off as expected.

Dead batteries result in a complete shutdown of the system that appears to be a major failure. Luckily, these are simple to replace.

Ductwork Noise

Banging and noise in the ductwork is a common HVAC problem reported by homeowners. The noise often indicates an issue that you can quickly remedy. Banging and thumping usually means a weak spot in the ductwork, where poorly supported structures move when the air is turned on.

Loud whistling or whooshing is caused by leaks in the ductwork connections or even a dirty air filter.

If you’re a handy homeowner, you may want to fix the duct supports and leaking connections yourself. Otherwise, it’s a good idea to call a professional to prevent any further loss of conditioned air and wasted energy.

Broken Blower Motor

One problem that homeowners frequently face is a lack of air movement. The blower fan in your indoor unit should be forcing the conditioned air through the ducts for distribution by the vents. If you don’t feel air movement at the vents when the system is running, it could be a blown blower motor.

Open your air handler and check for obstructions or loose wires causing the motor failure. Call a technician if you cannot remedy it with cleaning or reconnection.

Deferred Maintenance

The single most common of the top five HVAC problems is lack of maintenance. After simple thermostat failures, most HVAC issues are caused by neglect.

With neglect, short term problems become long-term system damage. Reduce wear and tear by following a regular maintenance schedule:

Change air filters every 30 to 90 days

Clean the air coils once a year

Clean the outdoor compressor unit and remove overgrowth semi-annually

Make an appointment now with the experts at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning in Chattanooga for regular inspection and cleaning. Avoid expensive failures with an affordable maintenance plan to extend the life of your system.