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If you're noticing increased heating or cooling expenses and/or more system malfunctions lately, an overtaxed HVAC unit may be the cause. Furnaces and air conditioners are engineered to operate within specific limits during typical operation. Under certain circumstances, however, wear and tear on certain components may be excessive, impacting system reliability, raising operating costs, and even shortening the life span of the unit.
An overtaxed HVAC unit doesn’t happen by itself. It’s typically the result of some abnormality in operation or the failure of a specific component. Here are some basic measures to help avoid excess stress on heating and cooling units, aka an overtaxed HVAC.
Replace the system air filter on time. In general, that means installing a new filter at least every other month during heating season and every month during summer AC season.
Ensure that supply and return vents in every room are kept open and not blocked by furniture or other obstructions.
Keep thermostat settings within the normal recommended range of operation for the unit — even when cold spells or heat waves strike.
Remember to schedule annual professional preventive maintenance on heating and cooling units with a HVAC contractor. In many cases, this service is required to keep the furnace and/or AC warranty valid.
Indications that HVAC units are being overstressed may include:
Furnace odors. Overheated furnace components may produce acrid odors that are noticeable in airflow emitted from system vents.
Squealing, squeaking, or groaning noise in ductwork. This may be an HVAC system blower in the central air handler malfunctioning due to excess wear.
The furnace turns itself off and will not restart. An overheating furnace may trigger a safety sensor that turns off the furnace to prevent damage or fire. Get professional diagnosis and repair to restore heating.
Short cycling. If a furnace or air conditioner repeatedly cycles on but then turns off rapidly, failure of a critical component may be occurring. Turn the unit off at the thermostat and contact a qualified HVAC service provider.
If you suspect symptoms of an overtaxed HVAC component, contact the service professionals at Air Assurance.