An HVAC system is vital for providing great comfort and functionality in any season. However, an HVAC unit can encounter issues that disrupt its performance like any complex system. Considering this fact, you need to understand the HVAC problems a resident faces in Saudi Arabia. Without specific knowledge, even a DIY method will fail to show appropriate solutions. In such situations, hiring professional services will come to your rescue at its best. And what else could be a better option than the Silver Foundation?
HVAC is an abbreviation for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. It’s a collective term used to describe different heating and cooling systems available in houses. HVAC systems generally help improve the overall quality of indoor air through mechanical filtration and ventilation. This system comprises central air conditioning units, ductless mini-splits, furnaces, and boilers. It even encompasses large-scale refrigeration used in commercial buildings.
Types of HVAC Systems
HVAC generally works through a cooling system, heating unit, and air duct. Its main principle is to let the air move through living spaces, manage the humidity levels, and offer radiations for cooling and heating.
Geothermal HVAC
Geothermal HVAC systems use the earth as a heat source , using some connected pipes buried in a ground nearby building. This system reduces energy consumption and can be used for extended years.
Packaged HVAC Systems
A packaged HVAC system comprises a single unit designed for heating and cooling your whole living space. It is positioned outside your home and is an outstanding energy-efficient way out.
Hybrid Split Systems
Next, we have a hybrid split system based on an electric heat pump and a furnace. This system helps in cutting down electricity bill costs. It uses natural gas during the cold temperatures.
Cooling & Heating Split Systems – Central
Split system is based on two systems, i.e., one indoor unit and one outdoor unit. It helps heat or cool your living spaces.
Ductless Mini-Splits
Ductless Mini-Splits offer cooling and heating without ductwork. Each system is placed over the designated area for managing that specific room space.
Essential HVAC Components and Their Functions
Condenser Coil or Compressor
The condenser coil helps remove the heat from the refrigerant in your air conditioner. The device is available in a box with metal wiring covering the entire outdoor AC system.
Blower Motor
The blower motor manages the airflow while turning on the fan for air conditioning and heating. Without this device, air won’t be able to circulate within the entire space.
Heat Exchanger
A heat exchanger is a device that transmits heat from one source to two or more separated liquid fluids. Its primary purpose is to do cooling.
Heat Generator
The heat generator device is responsible for converting heat energy into electrical power. This device supplied the home with the required heat during an electrical outage.
Thermostat/Timer
A timer or thermostat helps in controlling the heating temperature in your home. You have to set the device at the desired temperature for its better utilisation.
The Heating Component is Not Working
Most HVAC systems designed today have one primary purpose: to heat the home during colder months. To avoid frustration on frigid days, you have your house installed with an HVAC system. If your system heating component is malfunctioning, troubleshooting is immediately required. Check its thermostat and make sure the temperature has been set accurately. You can also set the fan to auto mode. If the issue persists, hire professional technicians before it damages the entire system.
Furnace Relay Switch Problem
The furnace relay switch plays a significant role in an HVAC system. This switch controls the flow of electrical current moving toward different components within the furnace. It also ensures that the furnace is working efficiently. If the furnace switch is not working correctly, it will stop the furnace from turning on. This sudden situation can cause significant heating issues. Technicians will check the relay switch for burnt connections, corrosion, or loose wiring problems.
A Lack of Cooling
If you think that HVAC systems are just meant for heating purposes, it’s a myth. This system is equally important to cool your house during hot summer days. If you live in Saudi Arabia, you will be familiar with the rising temperature during the summer season. If the HVAC system does not provide appropriate cooling, immediate troubleshooting is required. Hiring the technicians will help you replace or clean the air filters. They might even advise you to adjust the thermostat or replace its batteries. Getting the technician’s help to clean the outdoor unit regularly is also essential.
Lack of Regular Maintenance
Another major problem in an HVAC system is the general need for regular maintenance. You are investing considerable money in buying an HVAC system; if you properly maintain it, you save your money. Regularly maintaining the system will ensure it works efficiently and in excellent working order. In the maintenance process, a technician goes for routine check-ups, changes the filters, replaces the lubrication parts, and performs general cleaning of the entire unit. Neglecting the maintenance will cause the efficiency to decrease, and higher energy bills will come your way.
Refrigerant Leaks
Air conditioning systems depend entirely on the refrigerants to fully cool the air. With proper refrigerant fluid levels, the air conditioning system can keep up with cooling the home efficiently. One of its major causes is due to refrigerant leaks. Refrigerant fluid leaks will reduce the cooling capacity of the system and can also harm the environment.
Thermostat Issues
Proper temperature control is essential for the comfort of your home. Thermostat problems can occur due to wrong settings, malfunctioning systems, or poor location. These difficulties not only cause discomfort but also waste energy. To avoid these concerns, keep your thermostat adjusted regularly.
Electrical Problems
HVAC systems are not simply mechanical equipment. They also include complicated electrical systems. The electrical components of an HVAC system might malfunction over time. As it strives to keep your home warm, it may encounter problems such as loose connections, damaged cables, or electrical control issues. In some circumstances, electrical problems might cause the HVAC to fail. If you suspect these concerns within your HVAC equipment, we recommend contacting a technician to evaluate and remedy the issues immediately.
Strange Noises or Odours
Though the work of an HVAC is crucial, it should never come at the expense of your comfort or calm. If you detect strange sounds or odours from your air conditioner, one of its components may malfunction.
Worn-out parts and loose components make strange noises, and odours might be created by mould development or unclean filters. These concerns must be discovered and handled before they escalate into significant difficulties that require expensive repairs.
Clogged Condensate Drain
Air conditioners generate condensate as they cool the air. This condensate drains through a pipe, which can become clogged over time. A clogged drain line can allow water to back into the system, causing damage to the AC’s operation. To avoid these problems, check and clean the condensate drain regularly.
Clogged Condensate Drain
Air conditioners generate condensate as they cool the air. This condensate drains through a pipe, which can become clogged over time. A clogged drain line can allow water to back into the system, causing damage to the AC’s operation. To avoid these problems, check and clean the condensate drain regularly.
A To Do List To Mark
Before you hire any technician for the service of the system, make sure you cross the below tasks off your maintenance to-do list:
- You should clean or replace any filters inside the system’s indoor unit. Clear it from any leaves, dirt, or debris particles.
- You should keep the weeds, plants, shrubs, or vegetation at a distance of 18 inches away from the outdoor unit. This will avoid debris build-up.
- Watch out for any leaks. Check the holes or leaks in the ductwork or system. Leakage can also happen in cabinets or evaporator coils.
- Listen closely to any strange noises coming from the system.
- Pay attention to any unusual odour or suspicious smell as soon as you start the system. Call the technician to inspect the scent better.
- Move away any drapes, furniture, or rugs that block the supply and return vents.
Conclusion
We have described all the HVAC problems individually, which you can quickly resolve through expert help. Silver Foundation offers comprehensive HVAC services to allow your system to run smoothly. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you change the air filters?
Changing the air filters at least after one month is a good rule of thumb. This generally depends on the area where you are living. It also depends on how much dirt and contaminants it is catching.
What size unit do you need?
The answer to this question depends on different factors. This includes attic space, house type, walls, and insulation.
How can you improve the indoor quality?
Enhancing indoor quality by regularly changing the air filters is easy. You can also use air purifiers to ensure proper ventilation. Control humidity levels and provide the living space clean and dust-free.
Can you perform HVAC maintenance yourself?
No, you cannot! You can change the filters yourself. But for comprehensive maintenance, you should hire professional services. They can better address the issue and bring potential solutions.
What is the lifespan of an HVAC system?
HVAC systems have a lifespan of approximately 15-20 years. However, this lifespan can increase or decrease depending on different factors. This includes maintenance, usage, type of system, and the quality of the equipment.
