The heat is not letting up this summer, and we understand the importance of your HVAC system keeping your home and family cool. If your unit is underperforming, there may be a more significant issue at play. Especially in the summer, when it’s extremely hot and humid outside, problems can arise that make it difficult for your HVAC system to keep up with the demands. Check out this list of the most common summertime HVAC issues, how to avoid them, and how Advance Mechanical can help solve them!
Faulty Thermostats
If your thermostat is not set correctly, it can lead to various problems with your HVAC unit, resulting in a hot and stressful summer. You may also notice higher energy bills. Try to keep your thermostat set to a consistent temperature and avoid constantly bumping it up or down. This makes it challenging to regulate the temperature in your house. If your thermostat is malfunctioning, it may be time to replace it with a new one. Programmable thermostats are a great way to regulate temperature, allowing you to control them remotely from your phone, set a schedule and increase overall efficiency. Consult with a professional from Advance Mechanical to determine if a programmable thermostat is right for you.
Humidity
In the summer, you may notice a slight increase in humidity in your home; however, excessive moisture is not normal and may indicate that your unit is struggling to keep up with the heat and humidity. Your AC should both cool the air in your home and dehumidify it simultaneously. If it is unable to keep up, you may benefit from installing a dehumidifier to reduce the workload on your unit. This will help to prevent hot, thick air and organic growth.
Airflow
There is nothing worse than coming inside from a hot and sticky day outside and not being able to cool off. Or, you may have noticed that some rooms get excellent airflow, while others do not. If the airflow in your home is weak, you may have issues with a clogged or dirty air filter, a clogged condensing unit or even damaged or broken ductwork. Any of these things could alter the way the air in your home flows to cool your house. Check and replace your filters first and ensure nothing is blocking any of your vents. If that doesn’t work, the Advance Mechanical team can help! We encourage you to contact us as soon as possible to prevent a minor issue from escalating into a major problem.
Refrigerant Leak
Your AC unit relies on refrigerant to cool your home efficiently. If your system is not maintaining the temperature, you may have a refrigerant leak. This causes your unit to work even harder to keep up. This issue can occur in older or newer models and can be prevented with regular maintenance. If you’ve noticed any warm air, odd noises or exceptionally high bills recently, you may have a refrigerant leak. The Advance Mechanical team can inspect your unit, identify the issue, and provide solutions to get your HVAC unit running smoothly.
Odd Noises & Strange Smells
Speaking of odd noises, your HVAC unit should not be making any screeching, clanging, or knocking sounds. If it is, you may have a problem, including components that have come loose or broken. Another indicator of a summertime HVAC issue is the presence of burning or stale odors. This could mean your unit is overheating or you have organic growth somewhere. Contact us immediately to inspect the unit and its components, as this may be a safety issue.
Preventative Maintenance
Summertime HVAC issues can be avoided with regular HVAC maintenance. Having your unit inspected and repaired regularly will help it function efficiently and maintain its top condition, thereby increasing its lifespan. Check out our recommended preventative maintenance tips:
- Keep the outdoor area around your unit clean and free of debris and leaves.
- Seal and insulate your home to keep cool air from escaping and reduce energy bills.
- Join the Advance Mechanical Comfort Club for free priority service, two-yearly cleanings and tune-ups and discounts on parts, repairs and IAQ products.
- Contact the Advance Mechanical team as soon as you notice any problems.
North Carolina summers are harsh, but your home doesn’t have to be hot and uncomfortable. Leave the HVAC problems to us! We are here to help, offering Peace of Mind Guarantees, top-notch customer service and professional and efficient HVAC repairs, installations and replacements. Let us help keep your home cool all summer long – give us a call today at 252-355-9191!