Homeowners spend at least $4,500 to replace damaged HVAC systems. In some cases, the amount can go north of $9,000. If you need to replace the ductwork, you should expect to spend anything between $6,500 and $12,000. The price includes the total cost of adding a new furnace and AC unit to your property, and it may vary depending on the brand you choose to install.
If you depend heavily on the functionality of your HVAC system, you should be able to identify potential problems with the unit before they get out of hand. The best way to avoid such huge costs is by understanding some of the issues and detecting and having them fixed before they become more severe.
This article looks at some of the most common HVAC system problems you need to look out for to avoid more extensive and costly repairs. Read on for more information.
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System Wear and Tear
The HVAC system works more than any other appliances or unit in your home. Because of this, it is naturally more susceptible to natural wear and tears on some of the mechanical components that make up the system. Some of the most affected parts include the belts and bearings that connect down to the ductwork. When these parts cannot reach peak functionality, the efficiency of the entire unit drops. You should schedule annual maintenance where a qualified HVAC technician inspects the unit and repairs any damaged parts.
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Dirty Air Filters
Dirty air filters have to be the most common problem you will run into with your HVAC system. It is also the easiest one to correct. The primary function of air filters in an HVAC system is to eliminate different kinds of contaminants present in the air. The pollutants may range from pollen to pet dander and dust. If you have a problem fixing dirty filters, you can call an expert to do it. When the air filters clog due to contaminants and other foreign particles, they will put more strain on your HVAC unit since air cannot move through the unit freely.
This may result in overheating, which can consequently cause a total system shutdown. Replacing the air filters helps increase the efficiency and service life of the HVAC unit.
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Ventilation Issues
If you think that your system has ventilation issues, there are some common signs you need to look out for. First, you may have to do some repairs if the system is overworking. Low indoor air quality can also point towards poor ventilation within the system. The uneven temperature range in different parts of the house can also signify a poorly ventilated HVAC unit.
Before you turn on the HVAC system the next time you want to use it, make sure it does not show any of the above signs. If you have such issues and have trouble cleaning the HVAC unit or fixing them on your own, make sure you call a qualified technician.
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Leaking Water
You should remember that both furnaces and air conditioners can condense water. This explains why they have pipes and drains that can get rid of the extra moisture in the system. If the pipes and drains develop clogs, the water will leak into the house, causing unprecedented damages. It can also cause the growth of mold in the piping and your home. Mold growth is a significant health hazard for you and your entire family. If you notice any water leaking from your HVAC system, have it fixed as soon as possible.
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Noisy Vents
Anytime you hear noise coming from your air vents, it is a sign that it could have a problem. Issues affecting the ductwork, primarily loose connections, often cause a noisy air vent. If you do not want to break the bank to pay for repairs, you should have the problem fixed as soon as you notice it. Also, make sure that the ducts have proper insulation to avoid any loud noises from the expansion and contraction of the ductwork as the temperatures change.
If the evaporator freezes, the ice that builds up around the coils means you no longer get cooling in your home. Prevent dirt from building up around the evaporator as it is the leading cause of ice ambulation. You can use a self-rinse coil cleaner, or a spray can clean the evaporator.
You cannot live without your HVAC system. However, failing to maintain it properly can result in huge costs. Watching out for some signs can help you save money on expensive repairs. Look out for dirty air filters, system wear and tear, and ventilation issues. Some other common signs include leaking water and noisy vents. If you notice any of these signs, call an HVAC repair technician to solve the problem before it becomes more severe.
