As the seasons change in Shelby, NC, keeping your HVAC system in top shape is essential to ensure your home stays comfortable year-round. Whether it’s during the scorching summer heat or the chillier winter months, your HVAC system works hard to maintain a pleasant indoor environment. However, like any mechanical system, HVAC units can experience common issues, especially if they aren’t properly maintained. Below, we explore some of the most frequent HVAC problems in Shelby homes and how to prevent them.
One of the simplest yet most overlooked HVAC issues is a dirty air filter. When air filters become clogged with dust, dirt, and debris, they restrict airflow, causing your system to work harder and reduce overall efficiency. This can lead to higher energy bills and even shorten the lifespan of your HVAC system.
Prevention Tip:
Check and replace your air filters every 1-3 months, especially during peak heating and cooling seasons. Regular filter changes ensure better airflow and improve indoor air quality.
Refrigerant is crucial for cooling your home during Shelby’s hot summers. If your system is low on refrigerant, it won’t cool your home effectively, and the system may overheat or freeze up. Refrigerant leaks can also cause damage to the compressor, which is one of the most expensive components to replace.
Prevention Tip:
Regularly schedule HVAC maintenance with Bill Shuford Heating & Air. Our technicians can check for refrigerant leaks during routine inspections and repair them before they cause significant damage.
Thermostat malfunctions can cause your system to run inefficiently, leading to uneven temperatures throughout your home or even system failure. If your thermostat isn’t calibrated correctly or it’s placed in a poor location (like near direct sunlight), it can send incorrect signals to your HVAC system.
Prevention Tip:
Upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat to better control your home’s temperature. Also, ensure your thermostat is installed in a central location, away from drafts or heat sources, for accurate temperature readings.
Your HVAC system relies on ductwork to distribute heated or cooled air throughout your home. Blockages, gaps, or leaks in your ducts can cause inconsistent temperatures and force your system to work harder, resulting in higher energy costs and uncomfortable living conditions.
Prevention Tip:
Have your ductwork inspected and cleaned regularly to ensure there are no blockages or leaks. Sealing any gaps in the ductwork will help maintain efficiency and keep your home comfortable year-round.
The evaporator coil is responsible for absorbing heat from the air inside your home. If it freezes, your system won’t be able to cool your home properly, leading to increased energy consumption and potential system damage.
Prevention Tip:
Frozen coils often result from poor airflow, typically caused by dirty air filters or low refrigerant levels. Keep your air filters clean and have your system inspected regularly to prevent coil freezing.
Like any system that relies on electricity, your HVAC unit can experience issues with its electrical components. Problems like worn-out wires, damaged capacitors, or tripped circuit breakers can prevent your system from running properly or cause it to shut down entirely.
Prevention Tip:
Have a professional technician inspect your system’s electrical components during routine maintenance visits. Addressing small issues early on can help prevent costly repairs down the line.
Many HVAC issues stem from a lack of regular maintenance. Skipping routine maintenance can lead to reduced efficiency, higher energy bills, and costly repairs that could have been avoided.
Prevention Tip:
The best way to prevent HVAC issues is to schedule bi-annual maintenance with Bill Shuford Heating & Air. During these visits, our experienced technicians will thoroughly inspect and tune up your system to ensure it’s running smoothly and efficiently, no matter the season.
Shelby’s weather can be unpredictable, but with a well-maintained HVAC system, you can ensure your home stays comfortable year-round. At Bill Shuford Heating & Air, we offer expert HVAC maintenance, repair, and installation services tailored to meet the specific needs of your home. By addressing common issues early and staying on top of regular maintenance, you can avoid expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your system. If you’re experiencing any of these common HVAC problems or simply want to schedule a maintenance check, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Call Bill Shuford Heating & Air at 704-484-0025 to keep your HVAC system in peak condition. Check out our maintenance service page to learn more about how we can help you prevent some of these common HVAC issues here in Shelby, NC.