Did your heater leave you stranded during winter? Are you worried your AC won’t last through summer?
Looking back, you may have made some mistakes along the way. Not to worry, though. HVAC mistakes are fixable.
Mistakes are typically the consequences of DIY repairs or inexperienced contractors. While you can repair your own heating and cooling, the risk for HVAC repair mistakes is high. You also have to pay more to fix these mistakes.
Let’s avoid these problems before they ruin summer. Discover three common HVAC issues and how to prevent them.
1. Ignoring Furnace Sounds
Is your furnace particularly talkative?
While furnaces emit sounds when they kick on, those sounds shouldn’t last more than a few seconds. Anything beyond is cause for concern.
Scraping sounds are one example.
That scraping sound is likely the dry HVAC bearings scraping against the motor. Ignoring this sound will eventually lead to repairs. Remember to lubricate your bearings to avoid damages.
You can fix the scraping sound yourself or call an HVAC professional. You may find that a maintenance plan is more cost-effective in the long term.
Listen for the followings sounds too:
- Consistent clicking
- Rumbling
- Loud pops
- Banging
- Squealing
- Humming
- Thumping
These sounds could indicate everything from burner issues to motor problems.
Ignoring smells is even worse. You may have a dangerous gas leak on your hands. Call an HVAC company immediately if you smell something strange.
2. Resorting to Duct Tape
No one’s arguing the greatness of duct tape. However, it’s not a solution for everything.
One of the most common HVAC repair mistakes involves duct tape.
For example, duct-taping that small furnace leak isn’t the best idea. Duct tape isn’t designed for that. Furthermore, the adhesive hardens and weakens when exposed to changing temperatures.
If you resort to duct tape, make sure you’re using duct tape with aluminum foil. It’s best to avoid fixing furnace leaks with duct tape entirely. Instead, use an HVAC sealant or caulk.
There are different types of caulks. You want a silicone-based caulk for furnace leaks. You can always ask a hardware employee or call your local HVAC contractor for help.
AC refrigerant leaks also demand your attention but not your roll of duct tape. Assured Mechanical LLC outlines more common HVAC issues, like filter problems and clogs.
3. HVAC Repair Mistakes with Filters
Repairing your own air filters is a recipe for disaster if you don’t know what you’re doing.
For starters, you should replace your filters every three months or so. Dirty filters increase indoor air pollution in the home. They also worsen spring allergies by circulating dust, debris, and pet hair.
It’s easy to forget when you have “lifetime” filters. However, lifetime filters are merely washable. These filters must be changed every 90 days, as well.
You may find it easier to call an HVAC company. You won’t run the risk of installing the wrong filters, either.
Avoid Common Mistakes
Don’t pay for a DIY mistake. Remember these HVAC repair mistakes to avoid even more trouble.
Now is a great time to check your HVAC system. Do you have more home improvement projects on the back burner? Discover more ideas in the blog!
