5 HVAC Breakdowns And How To Prevent Them

Unfortunately, HVAC breakdowns in the Atlanta area are not uncommon. Thanks to the area’s hot, humid summers and older homes, there are several local factors that can increase homeowners’ risk of issues. Luckily, there are many ways to prevent HVAC breakdowns and prioritize your comfort throughout the year.

In this article, the HVAC team at Moncrief Heating & Air Conditioning discusses the five most common causes of HVAC breakdowns and the ways in which homeowners can fix or prevent them.

1. Clogged Air Filters

Proper airflow in your HVAC system is key to overall efficiency and performance. When air filters are clogged with dust, dirt, and allergens, it can restrict this airflow and cause the system to work harder than it has to. This results in not only reduced efficiency but also an increased risk of the system overheating or freezing up. To prevent these issues, replace your filters every 1-3 months and schedule routine HVAC maintenance.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

Your thermostat acts as the brain of your HVAC system. If it misreads indoor temperatures or fails to send the proper signals to your system, it can lead to a variety of issues, including short cycling, overheating, and breakdowns. The root of a thermostat issue is often dead batteries, wiring issues, or faulty sensors. To fix this, replace batteries and recalibrate your thermostat. If this doesn’t solve the issue, consider upgrading your thermostat.

3. Refrigerant Leaks

The refrigerant in your HVAC system is what absorbs and releases heat to get your home to the ideal temperature. If your AC or heat pump experiences a refrigerant leak, it can reduce its ability to perform properly. As a result, you can have poor temperature control, ice buildup on coils, and even damage to the compressor. Call a professional technician to locate and repair the leak as soon as you suspect one.

4. Dirty AC Coils

Over time, the coils on your AC can become dirty and grimy from dust and debris. This reduces the effectiveness of their ability to absorb heat or release it outside. This will cause your system to run longer than it should, resulting in strain to the compressor and potential breakdowns. Restore your system with a professional coil cleaning. Then, prevent these issues by keeping outdoor units clear of debris, grass, and leaves.

5. Electrical Component Failures

Your HVAC system includes several electrical components, including capacitors, relays, and circuit boards. If these components wear out or short-circuit, it can cause your entire system to shut down. Let a professional handle these issues. They can inspect wiring and components to determine what parts need to be replaced to restore your system.

Prevent HVAC Breakdowns With Professional Maintenance

Your risk for these common causes of HVAC breakdowns is reduced significantly by scheduling annual maintenance for your systems. Regular tune-ups allow technicians to catch many of these problems before they result in a full breakdown. Professional maintenance can also improve energy efficiency and extend the lifespan of your system. 

Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up With Moncrief Today

Protect your comfort by scheduling an HVAC tune-up for your Atlanta-area home with Moncrief. For over 125 years, we’ve been a trusted provider of comprehensive HVAC care from highly-trained technicians who are licensed and insured. We provide top-tier care for all brands of equipment and are available for same-day and emergency services. Choose our team, and your satisfaction will be our top priority. 

Call Moncrief today to schedule an HVAC tune-up for your Atlanta home.