Why Is this Not Working? Homeowner HVAC Edition

Why Is this Not Working? Homeowner HVAC Edition

Our natural first reaction to something not operating correctly is usually: why is this not working? Our second reaction is to promptly Google the issue, trying to find an easy solution. But when it comes to our air conditioning and heating systems, technical difficulties are trickier than replacing an old light bulb in your refrigerator.

Here are general answers to the top 3 most common questions homeowners have in regards to their HVAC systems. For specific issues with your HVAC systems, ALPS recommends you speak to a professional technician to diagnose and address any and all repairs.

Why Is My Furnace Leaking Water?

This is one of the most popular questions, if not the most common issue people tend to have with their furnace. There are a few reasons for this and most of them are not threatening in any way.

If you have a high-efficiency furnace natural condensation will emit from the system in order to properly cool down the exhaust. But if your tubing is damaged, broken or not functioning properly, then this could be the cause of your leak (it could also be a clogged drain).

Extra tip: to check if your furnace is high- or low-efficiency, take a look at the vent pipe. If it is white plastic then it is high-efficiency because standard efficiency units use metal exhaust pipes.

Why Is My Furnace Not Heating?

A faulty furnace that isn’t heating or is very inconsistent is another common problem that homeowners face. And as always, it seems that these issues tend to occur right when we need our units to function the most (which is why it is important to have routine maintenance checks). A heater that doesn’t seem to want to heat when you are freezing is very frustrating, and there are multiple reasons for this.

First, check your thermostat and make sure it is on, there is always a chance you just forgot to turn it on or someone in your house turned it off and/or switched the temperature down. Your heating system may be equipped with an emergency shut-off switch for the furnace. If your system is so equipped, locate it and make sure it is turned on. There could also be a broken or loose fan belt or bound or tight blower motor.

Why Is My Air Conditioner So Loud?

A loud air conditioner can make living situations uncomfortable and frustrating. We need to be cool during those warm summer nights, but the revving of our units can be keeping us awake.

Your unit may have a lazy fan that needs to be repaired, cleaned or replaced. Fans that produce a rattling or harsh humming noise may be loose or need cleaning. Your motor might also need lubrication to help things run a bit more smoothly. Some units come with unsealed motors and you will be able to apply lubrication in the form of SAE 10 oil placed in the oil ports. You may prevent the occurrence of noise by oiling the air conditioner motor at the beginning of each summer. Also, check to make sure there are no loose screws.

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