You cannot have a high-quality HVAC unit in Hammond, LA for only a few dollars. The heating and/or cooling equipment is pretty expensive. So when it malfunctions, which definitely would happen at one point or another because this equipment is not made to last forever—some probably panics thinking they would need a replacement. But more often than not, an HVAC repair in Hammond, LA is enough.
That is why we have come up with this blog to share some of the common problems you will encounter with your HVAC system. Understanding the root cause of common HVAC issues hopefully eases the anxiety and helps you make an informed decision.
Not Enough Heating or Cooling Power
Does it still feel hot indoors in the summer even when you turn the A/C setting high? Or do you still have to layer your clothes even in front of the furnace? In this case, your HVAC system might have any of the following issues.
Clogged filter – Your HVAC system has a filter designed to trap contaminants in the air so the unit will only blow clean, cooled or heated air. Over time, the pollutants will likely build up in the filter and restrict airflow, thus resulting to an inefficient HVAC system.
Low refrigerant charge – This likely happens to air conditioning units and air source heat pumps. A/C and ASHP require a specific amount of refrigerant to function properly. However, problems such as holes in the coil can result in a refrigerant leak. A low refrigerant charge can cause poor cooling or heating.
Wrong Size – It’s also possible that your air conditioning or heating system is just not powerful enough in the first place. HVAC units come with cooling or heating capacity. For instance, an A/C with 14000 BTU can effectively cool a 500 sq. ft. room. Install it in a 1000 sq. ft. room, and you surely would have comfort problems later down the road.
If this is the problem, you likely need a replacement instead of an HVAC repair in Hammond, LA.
HVAC Not Turning On
Cannot get the HVAC system to turn on? Some root causes of this problem are simple enough that you can fix them on your own, while others require expert attention. Here are some of the possible reasons why your HVAC does not turn on.
Tripped Circuit Breaker – This is a possibility if your HVAC system uses electricity to function. A circuit breaker is a safety device that automatically cuts the supply of current in your property when it detects a power surge, an excess of current, or a faulty component. Check the circuit breaker if your HVAC system and other appliances aren’t working. It might have tripped.
Blown Fuse – A blown fuse can stop the HVAC from turning on. You can check for this problem if you have electrical knowledge and a voltmeter. However, since this task involves electricity, it’s best to leave it to professionals if you aren’t adept and confident in handling the job. You may also need to contact an HVAC repair technician in Hammond, LA because there may be an underlying problem that needs to be fixed.
Thermostat Issues – If your thermostat isn’t working, then your air conditioning unit itself won’t work. A lot of things could go wrong with a thermostat. The battery may have gone bad, or there is some loose wiring. Or it could also be as simple as having the wrong thermostat setting. So if your unit isn’t kicking on, always check the thermostat first.
Close Gas Valve Or No Gas Supply – Gas-powered furnaces won’t kick on if the gas valve is closed. Someone may have accidentally shut the valve or just forgot to open it again. If the gas valve is open, but the furnace still won’t turn on, the problem may be with the gas supply. Check the other gas-powered appliances. If they also don’t turn on, you know what causes it
HVAC Constantly Runs
It’s perfectly fine to have an HVAC system that constantly runs in the extremes of temperatures. But having an HVAC that won’t turn off is a completely different story when the season does not require its service. No matter how inconvenient it is, the problem can happen to anyone. If it happens to you, you sure will wonder what’s wrong and what you can do to turn the equipment off.
Thermostat Problems– Faulty or broken thermostats may also cause the HVAC to run nonstop. If the thermostat cannot be fixed anymore, don’t worry. Take this time to upgrade the device into something easier and more convenient to use, like a programmable or smart thermostat.
Stuck Fan Limit Switch – If the thermostat is all good, but you still cannot turn the A/C off, the fan limit switch of the equipment may be stuck in an override position. The limit switch is located near the unit’s blower fan. Reset the limit switch and see if it solves the problem.
HVAC Leaks Water
Do you often see puddles of water underneath or near your HVAC system? Unless you’ve got plumbing issues or a toddler who is just a fan or knocking a glass of water, then you should take a look at your HVAC system. HVAC units aren’t supposed or made to leak water. If it does, something is wrong and may require an HVAC repair in Hammond, LA.
Disconnected or Clogged Drains – Air conditioning and the heating system produce water during the cooling and heating process. The water is safely directed away from the property via the system’s drainage. However, the pipes can get disconnected or clogged with dirt over time. The water won’t have anywhere to go but into your floor.
Damaged Drain Pan – This is an issue with air conditioning units. Cooling systems come with a drain pan located under the evaporator coil, which catches water droplets from the condensation process. Over time and without proper care, the pan may start to corrode and develop holes, resulting in water leaks.
Clogged Condensate Trap – Some high-efficiency furnaces come with a condensate trap. If it’s caked with dirt, the condensate may back up and overflow out of the equipment resulting in a water leak.
Frozen Coil – The ice in the coils will likely melt once you turn your air conditioning off. While there’s the drain pan to catch the melting ice, it may fail to catch everything, especially if the ice extends beyond the dimension of the pan.
A frozen coil is a result of other problems like dirty filters. So if the water leak is due to ice in the coils, there’s a need to further assess the condition of your HVAC to determine the root cause of the problem.
As you notice, a simple problem with your HVAC could have many other underlying causes. Without the right knowledge, one may end up with the wrong diagnosis. If you’re treating the wrong issue, then you’ll be causing more problems with the unit. This is why it’s important to leave the HVAC repair job in Hammond, LA to professionals.
When To Contact A Professional HVAC Technician
If you encounter the problems above, all you need to do is to hire a licensed and trusted HVAC technician to get the unit back up and running.
A few problems like replacing the filter can indeed be fixed with just your toolbox and confidence. Take note of the word few. Unless you are ready to risk more than hundreds or thousands of dollars worth of investment, don’t attempt to tamper with your HVAC.
If you’re not ready to spend a few bucks for a professional HVAC repair technician in Hammond, LA, think about it. With a professional HVAC technician, there’s no need to purchase tools for repair. Furthermore, you get access to the tech’s years of experience and knowledge that cannot be found in books. They will be able to figure out the problem with your residential HVAC system and fix it in no time. Hence, saving you hours of discomfort.
How Much Does An HVAC Repair Cost?
Your HVAC technician would need to hear the complete details of the issue or see the problem themselves to be able to provide you with a quote. If a contractor provides you with an estimate without getting into the details of the project, they are likely only there for your money.
Generally, an HVAC repair price in Hammond, LA varies depending on various factors, not only on the type of the problem. The complexity of the issue would also affect the price. Furthermore, if there’s a need to replace a broken component, you have to pay for the replacement part. There’s also the service call fee and labor cost.
If you want to learn how much you’re going to spend on your HVAC repair in Hammond, LA, it would be best to get in touch with professionals.
At Fire and Ice Heating & Air, our technicians are available round-the-clock to accommodate emergency repair needs. So don’t hesitate to contact us at your most convenient time. There will be a staff waiting to answer your queries, provide you with a quote, or guide you in getting our HVAC services.
You can reach us out at (225) 954-2312 to learn more or schedule an appointment.
