4 Common Summer-Related HVAC Issues (& How to Fix Them)

With the temperature in Wilmington, Claymont, Hockessin, and the surrounding areas rising rapidly, your HVAC is probably working overtime to compensate. Because of constant use, you may run into a few summertime HVAC problems, but don’t worry. You won’t have to tackle them alone!

Aire Serv of Wilmington is ready to help you repair these summer-related HVAC issues with confidence, so your system works efficiently and operates for several years to come.

HVAC Issue #1: My AC is Short-Cycling

Has your AC been coming on and then turning off after a couple of minutes or seconds? Does this constantly happen during the day? This is a summertime HVAC problem we like to call “short-cycling.” Essentially, your air conditioner is always in the start-up position but unable to complete the full cooling cycle because the compressor shuts off prematurely.

The Fix: Various Solutions

Because short-cycling is both a symptom of an issue and the result of an AC problem, there can be several reasons it’s happening to you.

Some of the more common causes of short-cycling include:

• Leaking ventilation system
• Clogged air filters
• Malfunctioning thermostat
• Dirty evaporator coils

An easy DIY fix is to change your air filter and see what happens. If the problem persists, it’s definitely a job for our heating and cooling professionals proudly serving Wilmington, Montchanin, Rockland, Yorkland, and other nearby communities.

HVAC Issue #2: My Thermostat Constantly Malfunctions

Often, when you have a malfunctioning thermostat or a heating and cooling system that operates inefficiently in summer, it may be because the thermostat is outdated or miscalibrated. When this is the case, your AC unit will heat and cool your home unevenly, signaling your compressor and fan to cycle infrequently.

The Fix: Upgrade to a Programmable Thermostat

You may be experiencing thermostat issues because the sensors are less efficient due to age or system incompatibility. This could be costing you hundreds of dollars in wasted energy. Replacing your old thermostat with a programmable one can save you up to 10% of energy costs annually, equating to around $180 a year. Still, you must ensure a new programmable thermostat is compatible with your HVAC system, installed properly, and utilized adequately.

HVAC Issue #3: I Have Consistently Clogged Condensate Lines

Condensation is an inevitable side effect of running your AC. Fortunately, all systems are equipped with a condensate drain line to prevent condensation buildup. However, if your drains are clogged, you may have leaks in hoses and water backup. When water is clogged in drains for long periods, you risk creating the perfect environment for mold to grow behind walls and under flooring.

Some signs that your condensate drain lines are clogged include:

• Increased energy bills
• An AC that isn’t cooling your home
• Mold, dirt, or debris inside condensate lines
• An AC that won’t turn on

The Fix: Clean Condensate Drains Manually

Cleaning out your condensate drain lines isn’t difficult, yet it requires some time to complete the job properly. Follow the steps below to flush your condensate drains.

• Step 1: Turn off the electricity. You’ll need to turn off the electricity to avoid injury while cleaning your condensate drain.
• Step 2: Locate your condensate drain. Typically, it’ll be a PVC pipe on the exterior of your home.
• Step 3: Remove the cap with your hand. You shouldn’t require tools. In fact, we recommend avoiding tools to remove the drain cap, as you could cause damage.
• Step 4: Assess the inside of your condensate drain. If there’s visible debris, remove it immediately.
• Step 5: Use distilled white vinegar to clean the drain. Never use bleach or harsh chemicals to clean your condensate drain.
• Step 6: Replace the condensate drain cap. Wait 30 minutes before restoring the electricity and turning on your AC again.

If you have a licensed HVAC professional perform seasonal maintenance, this is a simple way to remove clogs from your condensate drain lines. However, lack of routine maintenance means one of our AC repair experts in Wilmington, Claymont, and Hockessin should be contacted for guidance and assistance.

HVAC Issue #4: I Have Poor Indoor Air Quality

Have you noticed that your sinuses are constantly bothersome? Or maybe you’ve developed allergies or cold-like symptoms that won’t go away? This could be due to poor indoor air quality, which is most prominent during summer because of increased heat and humidity. While inadequate air quality doesn’t sound like an HVAC problem, your cooling unit may be a contributing factor.

The Fix: Change Your Air Filters & Clean Vents

With humidity sitting at a cool (pun intended) 70.9% on average in our community, air vents tend to attract moisture and have dirt buildup. You should always change or clean a reusable air filter at least every three months to improve indoor air quality. Additionally, dust-free air return vents can improve performance and air quality. Completing this simple task can help you save on monthly energy expenses, extend the life of your HVAC, and reduce the onset of allergies.

Still Having a Summer-Related HVAC Issue? Aire Serv of Wilmington Has Your Fix!

The trust is you’ll probably always experience some type of summertime HVAC problem because heating and cooling systems are complex. Fortunately, Aire Serv of Wilmington will always be here to assist you with almost any HVAC issue you can think of. Our licensed and certified professionals love assisting homeowners like you in and around Wilmington, Claymont, Hockessin, Montchanin, Rockland, and Yorkland.