Not having access to heating or air conditioning in your Hillsboro, OR home is often the result of an HVAC emergency. This situation can happen at the worst possible time, leaving you uncomfortable and potentially in danger. If you know what to look for and how to react when an HVAC problem arises, you can lessen the impact, keep everyone safe and maybe save money on repairs.
Refrigerant Leaks
A refrigerant leak is a critical problem that can affect your HVAC system’s performance and potentially put your health at risk. Signs of a refrigerant leak include the following:
- Decrease in cooling performance
- Development of ice on evaporator coils
- Hissing noises close to the unit
When it comes to refrigerant leaks, the evaporator coils, which are metal components of HVAC systems, are the most prevalent culprits because they corrode and eventually develop microscopic holes. The failure to properly seal or tighten connections during an improper installation is another common cause of leaks. On top of that, leaky components might be the consequence of manufacturing flaws by the manufacturer. Leaks can also occur when refrigerant lines fracture or become loose due to normal wear and tear. This becomes worse when there is vibration and movement within the system.
As soon as you notice any loss of refrigerant, turn off your HVAC system. If you detect an unpleasant, chloroform-like odor, open the windows to let in some fresh air. Because of the dangers involved in this situation, you should not try to replenish the refrigerant on your own. As quickly as possible, get in touch with a certified HVAC specialist. They’ll have the necessary special equipment and supplies to locate and repair the leak.
Keep in mind that while modern refrigerants aren’t poisonous, they can nevertheless deplete oxygen levels in closed areas. When dealing with any refrigerant leaks, safety must always take precedence.
Electrical Issues
Electrical failures or short circuits can occur due to old or poorly installed wires. Older homes with inefficient electrical systems are more likely to have circuit overloads that cause breakers or fuses to blow. If any of the electrical components, such as motors, contactors or capacitors, are not working properly, the system will not function. Corroding electrical connections caused by moisture exposure can also result in sporadic failures or complete outages.
To prevent additional damage or dangers from occurring, turn off the HVAC system when an electrical problem occurs. If the circuit breaker is not already reset, check it. If it doesn’t work, get in touch with a certified HVAC specialist who can safely diagnose the issue and fix it while checking that all electrical components are in working order.
Thermostat Failure
There are several potential causes for thermostat failure in HVAC systems. Improper calibration is a common cause of inaccurate temperature readings and inappropriate system operation. If the HVAC system is unable to communicate with the thermostat due to weak connections or faulty wiring, it will stop working. Furthermore, outdated or inefficient thermostats may wear out and stop working properly. Problems with power supply, such as empty batteries in thermostats that use batteries, can also cause malfunctions.
The first thing to do when a thermostat stops working is to see if the batteries need replacing. Inspect the wire connections to make sure they are tight. Consider getting a newer thermostat if the one you have is old and inefficient. To fix or replace the thermostat and restore appropriate system operation, call a professional HVAC expert.
Frozen Coils
Low refrigerant levels or restricted airflow are the usual culprits behind frozen coils in HVAC systems. Insufficient heat absorption by the evaporator coils can cause them to freeze in conditions with limited or no airflow, as is often the case with filthy air filters or blocked ducts. Coils can also freeze over when refrigerant levels are too low, which happens frequently due to leakage. If not fixed, this problem will reduce cooling efficiency and may cause additional harm.
When dealing with frozen coils, always cut off the power. This will give the ice time to thaw. If the air filter is dirty, you should go ahead and replace it with a new one. If there are any duct blockages, remove them. If the issue continues, it’s important to call a professional HVAC expert who can check for leaks in the refrigerant and get the system working properly again.
Blocked Airflow
A decrease in efficiency and a host of operational problems can result from airflow obstructions in HVAC systems. Clogged vents, dirty air filters and holes in ductwork are common culprits. Reduced airflow makes the system work harder to circulate air, which might cause it to overheat and use more energy. This can also result in uneven heating or cooling, which can lead to unpleasant interior conditions.
To fix clogged airflow, inspect and replace the air filters on a regular basis to ensure they are clean. Before continuing, clear the vents of furniture and other obstructions. Find any damage or obstructions in the ducting and clean it if needed. For optimal system efficiency and comfort, it’s best to have a professional HVAC technician diagnose any airflow problems if they don’t go away with simple maintenance tasks.
Gas Leaks
Any sign of a gas leak in an HVAC system should prompt immediate action to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Leaks, corrosion, weak connections and malfunctioning system components are common causes of gas leaks. In addition to increasing the likelihood of fires and explosions, gas leaks pose health dangers such as carbon monoxide poisoning. If you see an unusual spike in your gas bill, hear hissing noises near the gas line or smell something that resembles the odor of rotten eggs, it could be an indication of a gas leak.
Turn off the source of the gas and get everyone out of the house immediately if you think there’s a gas leak. To prevent the gas from igniting, stay away from any electrical sources and open flames. To find and fix the leak, call your gas provider and an HVAC specialist.
Clogged Condensate Drains
The evaporator coils draw moisture from the air, which is then emptied by the condensate drain. Over time, debris such as dust, grime and mineral deposits can clog the drain line. Damage to floors, walls and ceilings can result from water backing up and overflowing due to a clogged drain. Mold, which can be harmful to human health, can also thrive in environments with too much moisture.
Inspecting and cleaning the condensate drain line on a regular basis will prevent obstructions. To dissolve any accumulation, use a solution of vinegar and water. Quickly remove the obstruction or call an HVAC technician if you see water collecting around the unit or any indications of water damage.
If you’re dealing with an HVAC emergency, Pro Heating and Cooling, Inc. is the company to call. We help homeowners in Hillsboro with heat pump repairs, ductless HVAC, indoor air quality solutions, VRF systems, gas piping and much more. To schedule an emergency HVAC repair, call us today.
