Dealing with electrical problems in HVAC units can be frustrating. The catch with such problems is that they do not show any signs before happening in most cases. Considering the fact that HVAC units are entirely electrical units, it can be quite difficult to diagnose the root cause of the problem. However, you do not need to panic. Below is a list of common HVAC electrical problems. It will aid you in getting straight to the problem instead of wasting your time and efforts. However, the right way to deal with these problems is to consult air conditioner repair services.

Faulty Wiring

Faulty wiring is amongst the most common reasons contributing to electrical problems in HVAC units. If the wires are not properly installed or there are cracks or corrosion, the wires will not be able to send power or signals to the HVAC unit and the components. As a result, you might observe a decrease in performance or the unit shutting down after a short period of running.

In fact, in the worst-case scenario, the wires can also short-circuit and catch fire. This is usually the case with old units. However, if you have a new unit, maintenance performed by amateurs may also lead to a serious situation. This is why your air conditioner must be fixed by an expert if there is an electrical problem.

At the same time, the maintenance should also be performed by an expert considering HVAC units can be complicated to deal with. Choosing someone simply because they offered cheap rates does not guarantee a skillful job. You might end up in a worse situation than it was later down the road.

Tripped Circuit Breakers Or Blown Fuses

It’s common to see a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse when there is an electrical overload. If your air conditioner suddenly stops working, you will need to check if the circuit breaker is tripped or a fuse is blown. There is no need to panic in such cases as circuit breakers and fuses are technically safety devices that help protect the HVAC in case there is a huge electrical fluctuation.

Fortunately, solving the issue is easy as you can reset the circuit breaker by switching it on. In case of a blown fuse, you will have to replace it. However, if you notice that the circuit breaker is tripping frequently or a fuse is blowing up regularly, it means there is a problem somewhere else. For detecting the cause of the problems, get a professional’s help.

Malfunctioning Capacitors

Capacitors are electrical devices that are responsible for sending signals or power to the electrical components inside the HVAC unit. In most units, there are two types of capacities. The first one is start capacitor which helps the capacitor start functioning. The second is a run capacitor. It helps the compressor keep running. This means that if either capacitor were to fail, your HVAC unit would not be able to run.

Luckily, replacing the capacitors is quite easy. If you have the tools and skills, you can use the user manual to gain access and replace the capacitors. But, keep in mind that capacitors are electrical components and can store a charge. So, make sure to unplug the unit before accessing it.

Moreover, some AC units have a one big capacitor that performs the job of both the start and run capacitor.

Damaged Thermostat

Although, it is rare for thermostats to malfunction but not impossible. Thermostats are the control center of the unit and manage the temperature by recording the room temperature. Based on the readings, the thermostat signals the unit to alter its performance accordingly.

Modern HVAC units come with in-built thermostats that hardly need replacement. However, if you have installed an aftermarket piece like a digital thermostat, it might be that it has malfunctioned and needs replacement. Furthermore, you should also check if the thermostat needs calibration.

This usually happens when the unit is serviced. During the maintenance process, it is common for HVAC units to lose their calibration. To fix this issues, call in an expert.

Dirty Coils

If you have ever looked inside the outdoor unit of an HVAC system, you will find there are coils installed. These coils are important components that primarily help dissipate heat produced as a byproduct of the cooling process. With time, these coils tend to accumulate layers of dirt and dust that make heat dissipation difficult.

So, you should perform regular inspections and maintain the unit accordingly. On top of that, you should also schedule professional maintenance. The expert will carry out deep cleaning and maintenance. Sometimes, the HVAC unit is running without any visible problems until you take a look inside.

Some problems are better to avoid that could leave you stranded in the middle especially when it’s the summer season.

Malfunctioning Compressor

The compressor is the most important and expensive component inside an HVAC unit. This component is solely responsible for producing cooling and warm air. It uses the refrigerant stored in the unit and compresses it. Compressors are rigid components and will last several years until needing replacement.

If you observe that your HVAC system is regularly tripping or is not producing cool air at all, it means there is a problem with the compressor. Furthermore, compressors require a certain level of refrigerant to perform smoothly. If there is a refrigerant leak, the compressor will work harder than usual to make up for the loss of cool air.

If the situation remains, the compressor will slowly turn weak and ultimately give up. You will need to replace the compressor. If your HVAC unit is under warranty, you can get it replaced without any cost. Moreover, if your HVAC unit is producing squeaking sounds, it means the bearings are problematic. Only an expert from AC repair services Stony Brook should deal with any issues related to compressors.

Blower Problems

The blower inside an HVAC unit helps distribute air inside the room. If the unit is not maintained, layers of dirt and dust can accumulate making it a hurdle for the blower motors to function. This is a common problem in HVAC units that goes ignored.

The constant burden wears up the motors, which eventually leads to replacement. This is yet another reason why you should opt for professional maintenance. Blowers should be treated like other essential components inside an HVAC unit.

Can I Perform Maintenance On My Own?

Performing HVAC maintenance is easy and less risky if you can look for any unusual signs & symptoms. You can also invest in appropriate cleaning tools and products to perform regular cleaning tasks. However, when it comes to professional maintenance, you will need to hire an expert.

Expert services surely are expensive but are an investment considering the benefits they provide in the long run. Maintenance performed by an expert helps detect potential problems and fix them before they turn serious. This way, you can keep your unit running smoothly for longer periods.

Conclusion

HVAC units can run into problems out of nowhere but you should be prepared. The above-mentioned tips will help you do that but regular maintenance from HVAC repair services Huntington is a must. Investing in your HVAC unit goes a long way in terms of keeping electrical and other problems at bay.