You rely on your HVAC system to keep your Dayton home nice and comfortable season after season. If your furnace and AC are well maintained, they probably do a great job for you. However, short of a complete breakdown, how can you really tell if your HVAC system is working at top speed and efficiency? Here’s what to know.
Reduced Airflow from the Vents
Your HVAC system needs adequate and consistent airflow to work at top speed. One of the most common hindrances to adequate airflow is a clogged air filter. The typical media filter is designed to last one to three months before it needs to be replaced. Be sure to stay on top of filter changes to ensure your furnace and AC continue to work great.
Unbalanced Airflow from the Vents
A well-designed HVAC system is supposed to deliver balanced airflow to all the rooms of your home. However, it is quite common for airflow to be weaker in some rooms than in others. This difference in air pressure is usually the result of leaky air ducts or ducts that were sized incorrectly. Your HVAC technician will need to inspect the ductwork to identify and remedy the problem.
Unusually Noisy HVAC System
Unusual noises from your HVAC system are a sure sign the furnace, AC, or ductwork isn’t working at top efficiency. Here’s what to listen for:
- Bang or boom. This noise could indicate a gas build-up in the furnace, which could crack the heat exchanger. Turn off the system and call your HVAC technician.
- Rattling. Rattling and clamoring noises in the ductwork often indicate loose ducts that need to be sealed. If the rattling noise is coming from the furnace, you may have a leak or a crack in the heat exchanger. This is a dangerous situation. Call your HVAC technician right away.
- Metal scraping. Scraping and grinding noises often indicate a problem with the blower motor, which also requires professional HVAC assistance.
If your HVAC isn’t working at top speed in your Dayton-area home, contact the HVAC professionals at Ace Hardware Home Services today.
