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Top 10 HVAC Issues and Their Solutions

HVAC technician cleaning filter of air conditioning unit.
One of the most crucial systems in a Gibsonia rental property is the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. Not only is the HVAC system actually tasked to keep your tenants restful and comfortable during the entire year, but in fact, it also helps add to the longevity of your property. As it is such a crucial system, it’s vital to have a proper idea about the most common complications that may pop up – and how to settle them. To make this very easy for busy investors like you, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 HVAC issues and their solutions.

Blocked Registers and Vents

If your tenants are complaining of rather poor heating or cooling in the rental home, the first thing you should look at is whether the registers and vents are blocked. Furniture, home décor, and storage boxes can all easily block registers and vents, creating airflow issues. By clearing the space around each vent and register, you can strengthen how your HVAC system runs.

Dirty Filters

Another known issue with HVAC systems is that filters are not being changed frequently. HVAC filters help maintain the perfect air circulation by keeping debris and dust out of your ducts and equipment. If the filter gets stuffed by dust, not only will the HVAC system have to work intensively to heat or cool the home, but as a matter of fact internal parts may become busted as well. The fix here is quite an easy one: see to it that the filter is being changed as per the manufacturer’s instructions. While multiple systems warrant a new filter every three months or so, particular systems may need the filters replaced as often as once a month.

Obstructed Condenser Unit

One of the most widespread reasons an HVAC system starts to lose effectivity is because leaves and debris have collected around the unit, plugging the condenser. A plugged condenser unit can cause your HVAC unit to overheat, probably damaging it. To amend the trouble, clear the area around your HVAC unit, including any leaves or debris that may be clinging to the exterior.

Dirty Coils

Exactly like the condenser, an HVAC system depends on condenser coils to function suitably. When the coils get dirty, the HVAC system cannot maintain suitable airflow, and your unit may overheat. That’s why, it’s important to have your condenser coils cleaned regularly. Typically, about once or twice a year.

Dirty or Leaky Ducts

If your HVAC filters are not changed repeatedly, dust can proliferate in the ductwork, narrowing the space for air to flow. In older houses, it’s further possible for ducts to become dirty or leaky caused by rodents, insects, or cracks and holes. Any of these problems will cause reduced airflow and poor efficiency of your HVAC system. To secure that your ducting isn’t the source of the problem, be sure to have it reviewed and cleaned based on the ascertained needs.

Slow Blower Fan

All HVAC systems use one or more blower fans to move air throughout the rental house. If there is a complication with the blower fan, that can bring on airflow issues and make your HVAC system much less effective. As time goes by, fans can wear out or turn to be coated in grime. The solution to a slow blower fan is to have it looked over and either cleaned or replaced as soon as the problem is seen.

Leaking Refrigerant

If your HVAC system is an older one (or has not been maintained perfectly in the past), you may have a refrigerant leak. Leaking refrigerant can induce reduced cooling and airflow problems. Normally, the issues build up gradually as the refrigerant slowly leaks out. To handle the issue, have your unit intently inspected and repaired by a seasoned HVAC technician.

Faulty Thermostat

From time to time, the problems you think are coming from your HVAC unit are created by the thermostat. An unsound or broken thermostat can make it hard to maintain a comfortable temperature in the house while making your HVAC unit work harder than it should. If you’ve had your HVAC unit assessed and can’t identify any issues, make certain to carefully check and replace your thermostat before assuming you need to replace your entire system.

Wrong Size Unit

The same as rental homes, HVAC units come in a wide selection of sizes. It’s important to have the precise unit for your space. Units that are too small won’t heat and cool your property correctly, while units that are too big will commonly cycle on and off too frequently, inducing stuffy interiors and high levels of humidity. To correct this issue, have an HVAC expert examine your heating and cooling needs and make a recommendation for you on whether you need to replace your ongoing unit with one that is the appropriate size for your Gibsonia rental property.

Outdated HVAC System

One last thing to consider, another common HVAC system issue is that the unit or the ductwork is old or outmoded. This is especially correct in older homes that have been renovated, but, in fact, the HVAC system and ducting weren’t updated along with the rest of the house. To effectively improve the airflow (and the efficiency) of your HVAC unit, ask an expert regarding updating your ductwork. You may find that even very small and easy changes can make an immense difference.

There are several common issues with HVAC systems that can be evaded simply by having a regular, professional maintenance fulfilled per year. But on the other hand, remembering to schedule HVAC maintenance can be arduous when there are a bunch of other tasks competing for your attention. Instead, why not grant the care and maintenance of your rental properties to the Gibsonia property managers at Real Property Management Skyline? We help rental property owners like you keep your HVAC systems in great shape, saving you money by easily extending your unit’s useful life and keeping your tenants comfortable in the home all year. To know more, contact us online or call us at 412-770-1234 today!

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