For homeowners, every season typically means dusting off some outdoor gear or breaking out some new clothes. Some look forward to some more warmth, while others prefer the cooler temperatures. But one thing remains constant, your home HVAC system is working!

You depend on your home HVAC system to keep you and your family comfortable throughout the year. Although, there are many common HVAC issues that really need professional assistance to fix, many homeowners can look for common home HVAC signs to signal any pending issues.

It helps if you ask the right questions to know if a pro is needed to keep a small issue from turning into a big problem. So, here are some common home HVAC questions that many new homeowners may find useful.

Home HVAC 101: FAQs

HVAC simply refers to the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems throughout your home. Home HVAC systems should typically be checked annually.

Plus, homeowners that follow annual maintenance can expect to increase the longevity of their HVAC system.

1. Can I increase the efficiency of my HVAC system?

Proper maintenance is a great way to increase the efficiency of any HVAC system. As noted above, common HVAC maintenance includes an annual check-up. In addition, cleaning or replacing air filters (which any homeowner can do) and adding shades to rooms with significant sunlight to keep the general temperature in check.

In general, taking steps to reduce the workload of your HVAC system will increase its efficiency.

2. Why are some rooms in my home at different temperatures?

Generally, improper ductwork is the culprit. The air ducts carry air (hot and cold) throughout your home. Ductwork varies between homes. However, typically supply lines lead to individual rooms of your house with a damper at the main supply line. This restricts airflow. When some rooms cool or heat much faster than others, it may be because the dampers are not balanced.

Finding the right balance of dampers will help each room of the house receive the right amount of heated or cooled air. As a result, each of the rooms in your home will remain comfortable every season!

3. What does home HVAC maintenance cover?

Typically, HVAC maintenance covers general inspections of your heating and cooling equipment looking for anything that restricts proper airflow throughout your home.

• Check vents and ducts for any debris or dust.
• Test your thermostat to ensure it is working correctly.
• Inspect air filters to ensure they aren't interfering with regular airflow.

If a trusted HVAC professional perform routine maintenance on a schedule, then homeowners should expect:

• Ensuring a safe and comfortable home.
• Keeping your warranty intact.
• Reducing your energy bills.

At Snappy Electric, Plumbing, Heating, & Air, we offer maintenance plans that include spring and fall tune-ups to ensure your heating and cooling systems are working when you need them!

Home HVAC 201: FAQs

4. How do I fix my pilot light?

Pilot lights, which powers the components of your home HVAC system, including hot water heaters and central heating systems, do go out occasionally.

If your pilot light goes out more than once per season, this could indicate a problem. Although some homeowners will shut them off for the summer, everyone should know how to light his or her pilot.

5. Is my thermostat working properly?

Panic is the general feeling when the heat or AC goes out, particularly during a cold stretch or heat wave!

Fortunately (somewhat), frequently the cause of an outage is actually a broken thermostat. The first step is to check the batteries, then consult the instruction manual for other simple DIY fixes.

If you cannot fix the thermostat, then consult an HVAC pro because a qualified technician can remedy the situation much quicker due to experience.

6. Is my air filter clogged?

Air filters are a small, but critical component to any home HVAC system. Check air filters monthly and change them when dirty. Even if the dirty filter in your system seems to be doing its job well, it could be causing your system to work harder to produce the desired results.

Keeping your filter clean can prevent premature wear to your system and save you money, too. If you are not sure how to check, clean, or replace your air filter, then this should help.

7. What is leaking?

In HVAC terms, leaks generally refer to refrigerant leaks. These leaks mean the AC unit will no longer be able to cool the air. As a result, the AC will blow air, but not cold air. Small leaks at the valves are often the cause and sometimes finding the exact point of the leak can be very difficult.

If you have tried everything else and believe this might be your issue, it is usually best to call your HVAC technician to address the issue.

Additionally, air leaks will also impact your monthly energy costs throughout the year. Air may "leak" outside of your home through gaps in the windows, doors, and even electrical sockets. To identify and fix these leaks, then many homeowners will have a home energy audit completed because this will source the leaks and provide a list of projects to fix the leaks.

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Ultimately, taking some preventative steps will help to maintain your HVAC system.

If you decide that a professional HVAC technician should be called to your home, then here are some tips to find and hire the best HVAC pros around your neighborhood.

Of course, the team here at Snappy Electric, Plumbing, Heating, & Air offers 24/7 reliable and trustworthy service. Contact us today with any home HVAC needs!