Do not load your HVAC

A compressor is extremely important to ensure the cooling and heating of your home. By pumping coolant into the system, it produces heat as a standard part of operation. However, in case it gets very hot, it will shut down.

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Overloading of the compressor:

Overload of AC compressor is extremely common reason for malfunction, and normally happens on the coldest or hottest days, when the HVAC is working round the clock. It’s accountable for almost 50% of component failures. This is a very serious issue – and can also be very expensive if it develops into compressor failure. Pertaining to the system’s age, it may require complete replacement of the system.

Compressor Burn out - Causes:

The main cause of compressor burnout is bad installation, neglect, and maintenance, including…

1.     Dirty condenser coils.

2.     Dirty air filters.

3.     Undercharged or overcharged refrigeration system.

4.     Leaks in the refrigerant.

5.     Moisture within the refrigeration system.

6.     Added heat sources situated close to the condenser.

7.     Improper airflow.

8.     Lack of airflow from debris.

9.     Other failures.

10. Loose corroded wires and insufficient electrical supply inside the house, leading to low voltage problems.

How to prevent compressor overloads from damage?

Do not neglect maintenance.

It is a good idea to change the air filter quarterly. Clear all debris from the external system, keeping a clearance of 18-36 inches at all sides, and about four feet above.

Hire a trusted professional.

If you want your HVAC to be properly installed make sure you hire a professional. It is also advisable to undergo routine seasonal maintenance such as, verifying the refrigerant levels, connections and lubrication, operation confirmation, coil cleaning, and the like.

Consider extra protection.

If you add a compressor overload protector, it can secure your HVAC system. Situated close to the condenser, this superior sensor observes temperatures, and shuts the compressor down temporarily for preventing it from overheating. If you turn off the system to let the compressor cool, it can prevent any overload and warn you against problems that may otherwise become very expensive.

In case you have a compressor which is overheated, it is extremely important to uncover why, and not just replace components as that could lead to a repeat. In case your HVAC has experienced increased overheating, make sure you seek help, before it gets too late.

With just a little effort and knowledge, you can make sure that your system runs smoothly and efficiently. It is also a good idea to hire a professional HVAC expert who has the knowledge and expertise to keep your system from running smoothly. Do not neglect HVAC maintenance if you wish to spend less money repairing the system.  

Sealing your HVAC ducts - Why it’s important and how to do it?

We all want an HVAC system that’s energy efficient. If you’ve tried everything from changing the air filters, to using a programmable thermostat, for lowering energy bills but nothing is working, then your ducts may be the issue. Leakage in ducts can affect a family’s comfort, and in a lot of cases you can easily fix the issue on your own.

What is duct leakage?

Leakage in ducts occurs when the conditioned air inside the house escapes the duct system via loosely connected ducts, holes, or incorrectly sealed duct connections. Leaky ducts lead to loss of 20 to 30 percent of the conditioned air running through the HVAC system. Duct leakage does not only decrease a house’s efficiency, but it may also release debris and dust from areas that surround the ducts into the air and increase energy bills.

Signs you have leaky ducts:

Duct leaks can slowly decrease an HVAC system’s efficiency. Here are a few telltale signs that your ductwork is leaking:

1. Your system is running, but you find some rooms cooler/ warmer than the others
2. Your energy bills have increased
3. Your rooms become dusty as you turn the unit on
4. You see peeling metal tape, sealant, or duct tape where some gaps or holes may have been taped up at an earlier time
5. The ductwork in your house is visibly tangled, crushed, or kinked

All the signs mentioned above signal towards an expensive duct leakage issue that may decrease an HVAC’s efficiency.

How to find out where the ducts are leaking?

The best place to begin your search is by analyzing the exposed ductwork. In case you have tile ceilings that are removable, remove them and look for ductwork. Are there any poorly connected joints? Do you see holes as a result of wear and tear, or tangled ductwork?

In case you don’t see any obvious leakage signs, use smoke test for locating problem areas. Turn the system to its fan setting and use incense. Pass the incense smoke over the exposed ducts. In case the smoke is pulled into or blown away from the joint, then you are experiencing leakage.

How to fix leaking ducts?

There are a few simple solutions that can help you fix the problem.

1. Seal the joints

If you see any loose connections, holes, or leaky joints, seal them with a duct mastic sealant or tape. Unlike conventional, rubber duct tape, sealants are more durable and offer better strength.

2. Inspect your vents and registers

Are the vents properly connected? If not, make sure you tighten the wall vents and seal gaps between the register connections and duct system to make sure you are not losing any valuable air. Creating tight connections can help you avoid leakage and keep the system running proficiently.

If you follow the tips mentioned above and still find your energy bills on the higher side then it is best to get in touch with a reputed HVAC expert.

Tips for your HVAC when going on a vacation

Vacations evoke feelings of excitement and adventure. But it’s always important to be ready before you embark on your little journey. There are a lot of things that will require your attention before you leave, such as packing for the trip, intimating everyone about your unavailability, etc. With a huge to-do list in front of you, you may forget taking care of your HVAC system. Below are a few tips you must follow before you leave on vacation.

1. Raising the Thermostat level

When you’re not in town, you won’t need your HVAC system to keep the inside space at a cooler or warmer temperature. If you raise the temperature when out of town you can save a lot on repairs and energy bill in the future. It is best to set the thermostat between 80-85 F.

2. Surge Protection

You may face power outage at your house when you are out of town. In case there is a power surge when you are away, your HVAC could get damaged. By fitting in a surge protector you will ensure that your system does not get damaged because of an outage.

3. Maintenance of air filters

Remember, your HVAC system will still be functioning while you are out of town. Therefore, it is extremely important to make sure the air filter is as clean as possible before leaving. Clean filter can help in preventing malfunctions within your system when you are away.

4. Security

Most of us schedule timers to turn the lights off and on while away. We normally forget to take security measures for our HVAC system. Putting a sensor light or alarm on your HVAC system can offer a lot of protection. Moreover, you can also put a fence around your HVAC for more security.

5. Routine Care

Before leaving for the trip, it is always a good idea to call up an HVAC technician to perform a thorough examination of your system. The tech must check to make sure levels of refrigerant are precise, coils are clean, air filters are clean, all connections are secure, and the like.

These are just a few ways you can keep your HVAC system running efficiently while you are away on a vacation. Your vacation should be a time to relax and de-stress. By making sure you follow the tips mentioned above, you can rest assured your HVAC will remain in a good shape when you come back.  However, when choosing a contractor for HVAC maintenance, make sure you choose a professional who knows his work and can offer you the best possible service at the best possible rate.