# Why Is this Not Working? Homeowner HVAC Edition

- Link: https://alpscomfortair.com/not-working-homeowner-hvac-edition/
- Published: 2016-04-12T23:40:51+00:00
- Author: kathypuig

![Why Is this Not Working? Homeowner HVAC Edition](/wp-content/uploads/Why-Is-this-
Not-Working-Homeowner-HVAC-Edition.jpg)

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](http://www.actionairfishers.com/top-reasons-why-your-furnace-is-leaking-water/).
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](http://www.achrnews.com/blogs/16-guest-blog/post/120878-common-cures-for-a-loud-air-conditioner)
at the beginning of each summer. Also, check to make sure there are no loose screws.

If you need assistance or have questions about your HVAC unit please [connect with us on Facebook!](https://www.facebook.com/AlpsACandHeating/)