Commonly Asked Heating and Cooling System Questions

When it comes to heating and air conditioning, there are a multitude of questions that homeowners may have about their systems. This is especially true when your system stops operating the way it should, and you are faced with the task of having to contact an HVAC professional. Many of these questions can be easily answered, but not easily repaired. Here are some common questions that you may have when your home’s heating or cooling system malfunctions.

Why is the Unit Leaking?

If your air conditioning system is undercharged or leaky, it may be low on refrigerant. If you are experiencing a leak, adding more refrigerant may not solve the problem. When this happens, a trained technician will need to repair the leak, test the quality of the repair, and finally charge the system with the proper amount of refrigerant. In order for your system to perform at its best, the manufacturer specified amount of refrigerant should be added. Refrigerant leaks can also be detrimental to the environment. 

Why Won’t the System Turn On?

If your air conditioning system refuses to turn on, more than likely the thermostat has been set incorrectly. The unit may also be experiencing electrical issues (power not reaching the unit). This issue can be remedied fairly easily by simply checking to make sure that the thermostat is set properly, and that the system is actually on. You should also check your circuit breaker, since a tripped fuse could easily be the culprit.

Where is The Standing Water Coming From?

Over time, it is common for homeowners to notice standing water next to their unit. This is because the system creates moisture from condensate. This water collects in a pan, and exits through a tube or a drain in the floor (sump basin). If you notice an unusually large amount of accumulated water, it may be a sign that there is a disconnection or blockage present in the tube. A professional can easily inspect the tube or sump pump. If there is an issue, the tube will need to be replaced or the blockage will need to be removed. 

Is the Unit Dead?

Nothing can last forever, and there will times when a unit refuses to turn on at all. This can be caused by a malfunctioning compressor that will need to be professionally replaced. If the compressor stops working properly, the unit will not function. The professional repair will require small parts, Freon, and labor costs, which will cost between $500 and $1800. This is a fairly expensive repair, but it will get your system up and running again once you contact a company that specializes in heating and cooling Chicago.

Why Won’t the Thermostat Work?

If your thermostat refuses to function correctly, you will not be able to comfortably control the temperature of your home. This problem usually stems from a malfunctioning thermostat system, which is located behind the control panel. If the sensor is not installed or positioned properly, your system may behave strangely or refuse to turn off. This can be fixed by the majority of home owners, but if you are unsure, you may want to contact a professional.

Final Notes

In short, there are many questions that you may have about your improperly functioning AC system. Some of these issues have fairly simple solutions, but others will require you to seek out additional assistance. By remembering to inspect and maintain your unit, it will continue to work under even the most extreme circumstances.