Author: NTM

7 Common Air Conditioning Issues to Watch Out For

air conditioner

When rooms are blocked off, and air movement throughout the house is disturbed, common central air conditioning problems emerge. If you have an air conditioner, you’ll need to know when to seek regular air conditioning service. 

And there’s a problem with the operation. Close your home’s windows and exterior doors as much as possible to isolate the room or a set of related rooms from the rest of your house. Read on to learn about home cooling for a list of typical air conditioner problems and what to look for.

When selecting an air conditioning service in Alabaster, AL, know what to ask for to maintain your air conditioner. Below are the reasons why you need the help of a professional:   

Insufficient Upkeep

The air conditioner ceases to work effectively if the filters and air conditioning coils become unclean, and the compressor or fans will possibly fail early.

Drainage Issues

Check the condensate drain when humid outdoors to ensure it’s not clogged and draining correctly. If your room air conditioner isn’t level, it cannot drain effectively.

Failure of Electric Controls

The compressor and fan controls can deteriorate, especially if the AC is turned on and off repeatedly. Electrical connections and contacts should be examined during a professional service call since corrosion of wire and terminals is an issue in many systems.

Leaks of Refrigerant

If your AC is short on refrigerant, it was installed incorrectly or leaks. If it leaks, merely adding more refrigerant will not solve the problem. 

A skilled technician should repair any leaks, then test the repair and charge the system with the proper quantity of refrigerant. 

Remember that your air conditioner’s performance and efficiency are optimal when the refrigerant charge meets the manufacturer’s specifications. Refrigerant leaks can also possibly be hazardous to the environment.

Sensor Issues

A thermostat sensor is situated beneath the control panel of room air conditioners and detects the air temperature entering the evaporator coil. The air conditioner may cycle continually or act erratically if the sensor is knocked out of place. Adjust the sensor’s location by carefully bending the wire that keeps it in place near the coil but not touching it.

The Air Conditioner Doesn’t Turn On

If your air conditioner isn’t turning on, check your thermostat batteries. If the batteries are dead, replace them. Look at the thermostat settings to determine if the cooling mode is on if the batteries are in good working order. 

Noises From the Air Conditioner

Depending on the failure, an air conditioner might emit various sounds. Below are some of the reasons why your air conditioner is making strange noises:

  • A refrigerant leak creates a hissing sound.
  • It might be a relay issue if you hear clicking sounds when turning on and off your air conditioner.
  • Noises like hammering or pounding indicate a blower or motor assembly problem.
  • The compressor or fan motor creates a screeching noise.
  • Faulty electrical components cause a buzzing sound.

Conclusion 

Above are common air conditioning issues that homeowners may encounter before or during peak air conditioning. To avoid more severe air conditioner difficulties, you should look for an air conditioning repair in Alabaster, AL. 

Mainline Heating & Air provides dependable heating & air conditioning service and quality products to our Birmingham, Pelham, Alabaster, and Jefferson/Shelby county area customers. For emergency heating and ac service, call (205) 664-4751.

4 Essential Tips on How to Maintain Heat Pumps

hvac

We understand how important your heat pump is to operate at its greatest capacity. You depend on this system for comfort, whether you need to keep warm or cool down. Taking proper care of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is the best way to ensure it will function efficiently and reach its full-service life potential.

Here are some tips to help you achieve that:

1. Clean Your Filter

Keeping your air filter clean is one of the best ways to ensure that your heating and cooling system is operating at its best. A dirty air filter simply doesn’t allow enough air to pass through to cool down or heat your home.

Installing a new filter can cost as little as $10, which means you will be getting a lot of bang for your buck. Get in the habit of changing your filter every few months (or whenever your system tells you to), and you will experience improved performance and your heating, and cooling system will last longer.

2. Set Your Thermostat

Setting your thermostat to the right temperature is also a great way to ensure your system is working efficiently. If your home is too warm, your system will constantly be working to keep the temperature at a set level, which means you’re wasting money.

If your thermostat is set too high, it could cause your system to break down sooner. When the thermostat is set about five degrees higher than it needs to be, this can cause your system to work three times harder than it needs to be.

3. Change or Clean Your Filter Every Three Months

This tip is also related to your air filters. If you wait longer than three months to change or clean your filter, it could affect your system’s performance. You might not notice the decrease in performance since you’re used to your system working a certain way, and you might not be aware of how much money you are wasting on energy.

Do yourself a favor by making sure your air filter is clean and your system will work better. This is also a great way to save you money since you won’t ever realize how much money you save through efficiency.

4. Check Your Connections

Your HVAC system needs to be properly connected to work efficiently. If you have any loose connections, it could be the reason your heating and cooling system isn’t working as well as it could be.

When you notice that your system is blowing air that seems cooler than usual or your vents are blowing hot air, it’s a good idea to have your HVAC system checked out by one of our technicians. Inspections for our service area can be found on our website and heating and AC repair Cost.

Conclusion

Whether you need to change your filter or your system is not functioning correctly, you owe it to yourself to get the best heating and cooling system possible. It’s easy to forget how important these systems are to our comfort, but they will last longer and work more efficiently if you follow these tips.

Mainline Heating and Air provides dependable heating and ac service and quality products to our Birmingham, Pelham, Alabaster, and Jefferson/Shelby county area customers. Our quality products include air conditioners, heat pumps, gas furnaces, air handlers, package units, home generators, tankless hot water heaters, UV lights, humidifiers, filtering systems, and dehumidifiers. We are uniquely qualified to help you select the comfort system that best fits your home and budget. If you need heating and AC service in Alabaster, AL, call us at (205) 664-4751 today!

3 Reasons Why You Should Replace Your Air Conditioner

home with air conditioner

An average air conditioning unit is expected to last ten years. We see households with air conditioners that are more than 30 years old because they have maintained them properly. They are, however, more prone to cooling issues and AC breakdowns caused by an aging air conditioner.

This article is for you if you’re unsure when to replace your air conditioner. We’ve compiled a list of compelling reasons to replace your air conditioner.

New Air Conditioner Models Saves More Electricity

Innovative air conditioning technology has resulted in more energy-efficient AC models. The rise of AC inverters has improved the units in terms of electricity consumption by varying the speed motors and temperature settings. Furthermore, using newer models has resulted in savings of up to 40 percent of the total cooling costs for an average household.

It is essential to recognize that previous technological standards may no longer be appropriate for today’s demands. As the world shifts to more eco-friendly technology, it is recommended that you upgrade to newer models to save the environment and your wallet.

Repairs May Cost More Than Buying a New Unit

If the cost of keeping your air conditioner running exceeds the price of a newer, more dependable unit, it’s time to replace it. Repairing an out-of-warranty air conditioner may add hundreds of dollars to your total repair cost.

When it comes to servicing an older air conditioner, there is also the possibility of additional fees. For a variety of reasons, your initial air conditioning repair bill may rise. An air conditioner may require hard-to-find or no-longer-manufactured parts, necessitating the use of custom-built or as-close-to-original-as-possible parts. Furthermore, multiple components may fail simultaneously, necessitating the purchase of additional parts and labor. In addition, diagnosing and repairing older air conditioning systems may take longer than diagnosing and repairing newer air conditioning systems.

Lets You Avoid Sudden Cooling Breakdowns

You don’t want your cooling system to fail in the middle of a hot day. However, air conditioners become overworked in scorching weather, and common breakdowns occur.

We already knew that everything gets worn out over time. If you need consistent cooling in your home, an old air conditioner may not be the best choice. As a result, it is preferable to replace it to avoid any unanticipated breakdowns. Replacing it can provide you with relief and peace of mind.

Have you ever thought about what would happen if your air conditioner broke down during the night? Feelings of anticipation can get so strong that they make it hard for you to do your daily chores and make you anxious about when things will break down. You and your family will have more faith in your home’s ability to keep you cool at all times if you replace an older air conditioner with a new one.

Conclusion

Despite your best efforts, there may come a time when it is more economical to replace your air conditioner than to fix it. When determining whether or not to replace your current air conditioner, three crucial elements to consider are its age, condition, and performance expectations. Therefore, if your air conditioner is not cooling your home effectively, it is time to contact an air conditioning contractor.

Do you have doubts about keeping or replacing your current air conditioner? Call us immediately, and one of our skilled HVAC technicians will analyze and recommend a replacement for your existing air conditioning equipment. This summer, avoid being trapped in the heat!

Mainline Heating and Air is a heating and AC service that has been providing high-quality products and dependable installation since 1989. We are highly qualified to assist you in determining which comfort system is best for your house and budget. Reach out to us today!

4 Things You Can Do at Home to Maintain Your Air Conditioner

air conditioners

Maintaining your air conditioning unit should be one of your household priorities to ensure it will run smoothly for years to come. Experts recommend having your AC serviced at least once a year for maintenance, but the ideal frequency is twice a year.

When you’re hiring AC maintenance services, it’s best to do it right before the seasons change. Doing this ensures that your air conditioner is working properly by the time the weather becomes too hot. That being said, there are things you can do at home to keep up the maintenance of your AC unit. Taking up these practices will do a lot to ensure that it will provide the cold air you need even at the peak of summer.

Here’s what you can do:

1. Clean the Air Filters

Regularly cleaning or replacing your air filters is an excellent habit to take up if you want to extend the longevity of your AC unit. If your air filter is washable, you don’t have to replace it as long as you clean it every two or three months. 

If the air filter is too dirty, it could affect the performance of your air conditioner. If you feel like your unit isn’t cooling a room properly, you probably need to clean your air filters.

2. Keep the Area Around the Condenser Unit Clear

Your air conditioner’s condenser unit needs space to breathe, which is why you should keep that area clear. Avoid placing any plants or other belongings near the condenser unit and keep it clear of debris. 

Every once in a while, make sure nothing is blocking the air circulation. You can incorporate this habit into your regular yard work routine so that you don’t forget to do it.

3. Clean the Condenser Unit

The condenser unit also needs to be cleaned because it can be prone to collecting dryer lint, mold, mildew, or other harmful particles. If you’re not cleaning your condenser unit regularly, it could affect the lifespan of your air conditioner. 

Make sure to avoid using pressure washers because this could damage the condenser. Instead, use a hose that emits a gentle stream of water.

4. Check the Drain Lines

Your air conditioner’s drain lines also need maintenance, so it’s best to check them regularly. The drain lines are responsible for keeping your AC unit from flooding your home or causing a water backup. They also keep your air conditioner from spewing unclean air into your home. 

To make sure these are working correctly, clear all nearby debris, mold, algae, or even pests. If you live in a humid climate, you may need to get these checked regularly by hiring professional AC services.

Conclusion

Maintaining your air conditioner is essential if you want to avoid spending a lot of money on a new unit every other year. By following the tips mentioned above, you can significantly prolong your unit’s lifespan and improve its performance. You won’t even have to worry about whether or not your air conditioner is going to cool down a room properly. 

That being said, it’s essential to hire professional AC services at least once a year to ensure your unit is getting the proper care beyond what you can do at home.

Contact Mainline Heating and Air for professional air conditioning services in Birmingham, Pelham, Alabaster, and Jefferson county areas. Our team ensures only the best quality services for all our clients.

5 Clear Signs a Gas Furnace Needs Repairs This Instant

furnace

Your home can’t be without a gas furnace during a particularly cold day or those long winter nights. The furnace disperses heat throughout your house, keeping everyone warm and cozy. Though these well-built machines last from 15 to 30 years, they still need regular furnace repair, especially when you sense it doesn’t work as well as it once did.

Here are some sure-fire signs a gas furnace needs repairs this instant:

The Smell of Gas in the Air

You will smell gas every time you turn on a furnace during cold seasons. The scent of ethanol is entirely normal and is not a cause of alarm.

This is no longer normal when you continue smelling gas as the furnace continues to run or when the scent becomes more potent as you move closer to the furnace. These two signs mean your furnace is leaking gas.

Immediately contact a heating and AC service to fix the problem as gas leaks could lead to a fire or explosion when they come in contact with anything flammable.

Little to No Heat Dispersed

Another positive sign your gas furnace needs fixing is when the appliance does not distribute heat or disperses heat at a weaker level.

This problem could be caused by leaks, thermostat issues, cracks in the heat exchanger, or simply the inability to cope with extremely frigid weather.

Before contacting a repair crew, check if someone left the furnace temperature at a lower level or if the temperature is set at the usual levels. If it is the former, all you need to do is set it to the right heat. If it is the latter, call your heating and AC service to do regular maintenance.

Gas Alarms Going Off

If your carbon monoxide detector blares at home, that is an emergency. Immediately do the following:

  • Close the gas furnace.
  • Bring everyone outside of the house this instant. 
  • Contact 911 from your smartphone. Do not remain inside the house.

While a regular furnace repair job can quickly fix gas leaks, a triggered home alarm means carbon monoxide has traveled from your basement to your home’s interior. This is caused by a fault heat exchanger, as the gas is not fully transformed into heat, hence the wide gas leakage and weaker heat distribution of the furnace.

Always contact a trusted heat and AC service in the event of a carbon monoxide alarm, as this is a severe appliance problem.

Weird Sounds

Much like a car engine that jumpstarts or a computer that powers on, gas furnaces make noises when ignited. However, hearing prolonged or intermittent noises such as rattling, popping, banging, or squealing causes concern.

  • Banging could mean a furnace’s ignitor is malfunctioning.
  • Squealing could signal a problem with the motor or fan, such as worn-out drive belts ready to break.
  • Popping noises usually come from the ductwork and could mean a problem with the gas passageway. But if you have metal ducts, hearing this is completely normal, as it makes noises during expansion and contraction.

Call a heat and AC service for furnace repair if you hear any of these three sounds, plus others we may not have listed (rattling, whistling, and more).

It Looks and Sounds Old

Perhaps the main root of these problems is the fact your furnace is already past its prime. Signs of an old furnace include a worn-out or rusted exterior combined with one or more of the previous signs mentioned above. It might be better to purchase a new one instead of getting certain parts repaired, but always consult an expert before deciding.

Conclusion

Gas furnaces are sturdy machines that still require maintenance even if they last long. Getting the right repair team is paramount to keeping it in good working condition and your family safe from any furnace-related injuries.

For trusted heating and AC services, contact Mainline Heating and Air! We’ve got over three decades of experience doing furnace repair in Alabaster, AL, as well as offering quality products, including air conditioners, heat pumps, air handlers, and more! Set your appointment with us today!

Four Tips to Help You Choose a Tankless Water Heater

pipes

Many of you may be considering buying a tankless water heater for your home. And while you can choose from a multitude of high-quality water heaters from Mainline Heating & Air, you may not know where to begin when it comes to choosing a water heater. To help you out, we thought it would be useful to prepare a brief article discussing this topic. If this is something that you want to learn more about, read on for four tips that will help you choose a tankless water heater for your home.

Pay Attention to the Warranties

While it may not be directly linked to how your water heater performs, you’ll want to pay extra attention to the warranties it comes with. Good quality heaters will come with an extended warranty that will have you covered in the case they break down. In the case that you’re choosing between two seemingly equal water heaters, the warranty they come with may just help you decide on which heater to get for your home.

Check the Water Heater Efficiency

When it comes to performance, there are very few things that are more important than water heater efficiency. Water heater efficiency is what will dictate how well the water heater can heat water as compared to other water heaters out on the market. While this may seem complicated, you’ll be glad to know that most heaters make use of an energy rating called Energy Factor (EF). You can use EF to compare heaters to see which one is the best when it comes to efficiency. The higher the EF rating, the more efficient the device will be.

Determine the Right Size That You Need for Your Home

You’ll need to determine the right size of a tankless water heater for your home. This can be rather tricky as the “right” size will depend on your specific situation. A good rule of thumb to follow would be to get a larger water heater if you have several people using hot water in your home.

Consider the Power Source

Lastly, you’ll want to consider the power source of the tankless water heater. When it comes to power sources, the most common types are propane and electric. Now, neither of these power sources are better than the others as they all come with unique advantages that can make them a good choice for your home.

Electric power tankless water heaters may be the most convenient. However, you have to be wary if your home is on the older side. Older homes come with weaker electric systems. This can cause problems as adding a water heater could potentially overload your system.

Propane heaters are usually more powerful than electric heaters. They’ll also allow you to save on your home’s electricity bill. The main downside to propane water heaters is they take a while to heat up. So much so that homeowners usually report inconsistent water temperatures when using propane tankless water heaters.

Conclusion

We hope these tips help you choose the best tankless water heater for your home. While it may seem like a lot of work to have to go through the different aspects of a water heater, taking the time to be thorough about your choice of water heater will prove to be beneficial for you and your home in the long run. Be sure to keep all of these tips in mind so that you can make the most informed decision about your choice of a tankless water heater.

If you are ever in need of a tankless water heater, Mainline Heating & Air has got you covered. Our quality products include air conditioners, heat pumps, gas furnaces, air handlers, package units, home generators, tankless hot water heaters, UV lights, humidifiers, filtering systems, and dehumidifiers. For more information, check out the rest of our website!

How to Use Ultraviolet Light to Heat up Your Interior

Ultraviolet Light

Ultraviolet (UV) light is one of the most powerful and effective killers of aerosolized viruses. There are many ways a virus can spread, whether it be through physical contact with fluids of someone infected or even by touching unclean surfaces.

It can happen anywhere, especially in common public areas that people frequent. If you are a healthcare establishment or a retailer, it is very likely that your surfaces are contaminated by unwanted germs. 

UV light has been found as one of the most effective tools to cleanse infected surfaces and people in indoor spaces. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about UV light and indoor cleansing. 

What Is Ultraviolet Light?

Ultraviolet light or UV light is composed of wavelengths at 100 and 400 nanometers. This means it falls just a little way beyond the violet within the visible light spectrum. 

There are three regions within the UV system. There is UV-A, measured at around 315 to 200 nanometers; UV-B, measured at 280 to 315 nanometers; and UV-C, measured at 200 to 280 nanometers.

In these three regions, each has its own degree of acceptable human skin contact. To put it plainly, UV-A light feels more like suntanning, while UV-B burns like the sun. The latter can even cause skin lesions or skin cancer.

On the other hand, UV-C is just the right intensity to remove unwanted pathogens. However, do note that it is hazardous to the eye and skin. Most artificial UV light sources use this region for disinfecting. 

How Does It Cleanse the Area?

These UV rays are designed to kill pathogens. Because photons made up of around 200 to 300 nanometers are absorbed by your DNA or RNA, most photons below 240 nanometers get absorbed by proteins. 

As such, having biomolecules damaged by the absorbed energy effectively cut off any pathogens or prevent infections. This can be triggered by just the right amount of UV light that doesn’t put you at risk but still removes the pathogens.

How and Where Is It Used?

Thanks to technological advancement, there are many UV disinfection devices that you can buy for your establishments or simply for yourself. Hospitals have been using this technology to disinfect operating rooms and patient rooms, and wherever there is possible bacteria growth.

In public transportation, more and more companies are testing UV devices to help cleanse buses, trains, and planes. There are even human-controlled UV machines to clear out any possibly infected areas that humans can’t reach.

But more importantly, UV has been making big strides in interior cleansing. Schools, restaurants, shops, and even some homes can use UV-C lamps overhead and disinfect the air as it circulates. 

Is It Safe to Be Near Humans?

Given the regions of UV rays and the intensity in which it affects human skin, there are debates about whether UV-C, even far UV-Cs, can be used near humans. While there are still some health risks involved, it is very effective in cutting off virus transmissions.

Specifically, the amount of time you can be exposed to the UV rays should be explored further to create effective UV devices that can withstand long hours.

Conclusion

If you are considering a full, easy way of decontaminating your interiors from harmful pathogens, then it might be time to invest in UV disinfection devices. They are very effective in removing pathogens.

If you are in need of heating and cooling repair in Alabaster, AL, you can consult Mainline Heating and Air. We provide quality repair services, including the installation of UV lights in your home for disinfection. Contact us today!

4 Reasons Behind the Burning Smell in Your Furnace

furnace

It can be quite alarming when you notice a burning smell in your home. You may end up checking the whole place to see if there’s a fire only to land in front of your furnace. When your furnace is the cause of the burning smell, you likely have an issue with your furnace that needs to be sorted out. 

While some issues may resolve on their own, others may need further attention. So, it’s important to properly diagnose the cause of the burning. To help you with that, we’ve listed down below some of the most common reasons your furnace smells like it’s burning.

1. Electrical Issues

Sometimes, a burning smell in your home can be due to electrical problems. And they’re not limited to the furnace as many other electrical appliances can have faulty wires and other similar issues. 

When the smell is caused by electrical issues, it will often smell like burning plastic. And if you smell this coming from your furnace, it’s crucial to turn it off immediately. 

Since electrical issues are serious and often dangerous, it’s best not to try to fix them yourself. Instead, you should hire a furnace repair service to take a look at the problem. Often, the burning plastic smell is caused by the furnace being too hot, thus melting some of the components. A professional will be able to identify which components have been damaged and replace them.

2. Dust

A lot of dust can settle inside the furnace. And what you’re smelling may be the dust burning. This scenario is most likely to happen when you first turn it on after the summer. If this is the case, the smell will only continue as the dust burns away, and there is no need to panic. However, if the smell persists for more than a day, you probably should contact furnace repair technicians to see what the problem is.

3. Oil Filter

If you notice a smell of burning oil coming from the furnace, the problem probably lies in the oil filter. To resolve the problem, you simply need to replace the filter. In general, oil filters must be replaced every three months. And if you have pets or smoke inside your home, you should replace the filter more frequently. If the filter has been there for too long, it will likely cause that burning oil smell. However, if replacing the filter still does not solve the problem, you would have to get furnace repair services.

4. Gas Leak

The smell coming from your furnace may seem like rotten eggs. If this is what you’re smelling, it is crucial to turn off the furnace immediately and contact a professional.

A rotten egg smell can indicate a gas leak, which is a very serious problem. So while waiting for the professionals to arrive, it’s best to open the windows and allow clean air to circulate. Having clean air in the furnace room will help reduce the risk of serious damages. Once you provide air circulation, it’s best to get out of your home in the meantime. 

Final Thoughts

Burning smells coming from your furnace may be a serious problem. But sometimes, the issue can be resolved on its own. Either way, it’s important to identify the cause of the smell to know what appropriate action to take next.

If there’s a problem with your furnace, you can count on Mainline Heating and Air to fix it. We do furnace repair in Alabaster, Birmingham, and more from 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. We also offer quality products and are uniquely qualified to help you select the comfort system that best fits your home and your budget. Call us now to speak with someone about your heating needs!

5 Important Factors That Affect Indoor Air Quality

kitchen

We can’t overstate how important it is to have good indoor air quality. Having fresh and clean air to breathe will And while we here at Mainline Heating & Air sell a slew of different products that can help you improve your indoor air quality, it’s best that you understand that there are other things you have to consider when it comes to indoor air quality. 

To help make things easier for you, we’ve put together a list of the five most important factors that affect indoor quality. Hopefully, this article proves to be useful when it comes to helping you best understand how to improve the indoor air quality in your homes.

Chemicals

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) from new paint, flooring, and other furnishings can cause several health issues. Cleaning products can also introduce harmful chemicals into your space. Be sure to be meticulous about everything that’s used in your home. It would be best to opt for non-toxic products if the option is available.

Ventilation

Air circulation and ventilation are incredibly important when it comes to improving indoor air quality. Insufficient ventilation will trap the polluted air indoors. To avoid this from happening, we suggest that you keep the doors and windows open so that fresh air can get into your space. An exhaust fan will also do wonders when it comes to ventilation, so it would be worth considering as well if you have the resources to spare.

Humidity

Many of you may not know this but humidity plays an important role when it comes to indoor air quality. You have to keep the humidity at an optimal level to ensure that the air is clean. Having too much humidity will cause mold to grow, while the lack of humidity can cause rashes and dry skin. If you find that your space is lacking in humidity, we recommend installing a humidifier as it can help raise the humidity in your home.

HVAC Issues

While your HVAC system is meant to improve the indoor air quality in your home, it can be a source of problems as well. Dust or dirt in the ductwork and other components can ruin your home’s indoor air quality. Excessive moisture can also cause mold and mildew to grow in your home. The only way to avoid this is to have your HVAC system regularly checked and maintained. 

Pets and Pests

Both your pets and pests can be a source of allergens. These allergens can cause the overall indoor air quality to drop significantly. If you or anyone you live with have any allergies, then it would be best to minimize your exposure to the allergens that trigger an allergic reaction. If you have many pets at home, we advise you to clean regularly. You’ll want to vacuum more frequently to ensure that you clean up all of the hair that your pet sheds. 

Conclusion

Hopefully, this article proves to be useful when it comes to helping you improve the indoor air quality in your home. Be sure to keep all of this information in mind so you can take the necessary steps that will fix any indoor air quality issues that you may be having. For those of you who are having HVAC issues, it would be best to call in the professionals.

If you are looking to improve your indoor air quality, Mainline Heating & Air has got you covered. Our high-quality products include air conditioners, heat pumps, gas furnaces, air handlers, package units, home generators, tankless hot water heaters, UV lights, humidifiers, filtering systems, and dehumidifiers. For more information, check out the rest of our website!

Hear the Warning Signs: 7 HVAC Noises You Shouldn’t Neglect

hvac

Is your HVAC system creating odd sounds? Those odd sounds you hear could be a wake-up call for an impending repair. Almost every household appliance makes noises and we get used to them. But if they are producing sounds that are not normal, we should not ignore them as they can be a signal of more serious issues. 

It’s important for owners and renters to learn more about this problem. Here are the most common HVAC noises, what they mean, and what to do if they occur.

1. Clicking

Depending on where the clicking noise is originating from, it might suggest a few different problems. If the clicking is coming from your HVAC equipment, there might be a problem with the compressor. This is an issue that should be addressed by an expert. If the clicking is coming from your furnace and you have recently turned on the heat, it is usually an indication that your system is working well. However, if the clicking continues, contact a specialist because the problem might be in the ignition system, which is terrible news.

2. Clanking

Similar to the thwap and thunk sound, these HVAC noises might be produced by anything being dislodged or caught in the fan or blower. If the rattles and clanks become bangs or have continuously grown in loudness, it’s advisable to bring in an expert to evaluate which sections require HVAC maintenance or repair.

3. Popping

A popping sound after turning on your heat or air conditioner for the first time in a long time may not be a reason for alarm. This is frequently caused by the ductwork expanding or otherwise adapting to the change in air temperature, and it should subside within a short period of time. If the popping sound persists, or if you have not recently encountered any significant fluctuations in temperature, it may be a good idea to seek the assistance of an HVAC repair professional.

4. Thwapping

If your HVAC noises are more thwapping or thunking, it might be as simple as an object trapped in the fan blades. Keep an ear out for a difference in loudness when your air conditioner is turned on and off. If you only hear the noise when the air is blowing, your fan blade may be broken. You may be able to locate the obstruction and remove it yourself, but if you are unclear whether you require HVAC repair, contact an expert.

5. Buzzing

When your air conditioner or condenser buzzes or hums, it might be that the compressor is broken or the power is too hot. Another reason for a buzzing AC is worn-out condenser rubber feet. This causes the condenser to tremble and hum. Buzzing might be a sign of a loose component or a leak. In any event, if you hear a buzz, call your HVAC professional.

6. Squealing 

AC systems will scream like a car with a loose belt. A loud screaming suggests a worn or misplaced fan belt. Also, bear in mind that humidity can cause a fan belt to expand or compress, throwing it out of alignment. Another reason for this screaming might be a shortage of lubrication in the engine. In this situation, a particular type of lubricant may be used to remedy the problem. If you hear screeching, keep your AC running but call an HVAC professional immediately away. 

7. Banging

A hammering sound indicates a loose or broken item. A loose or broken connecting rod, piston pin, or crankshaft commonly causes this AC noise. Listen for pounding and contact your HVAC specialist. They can help diagnose the issue, find the source of the pounding, and determine what can be done.

Conclusion

These are the most common HVAC noises that you as a homeowner may hear. Your system may make other noises as well. If you’re worried about the sounds your HVAC system is making, don’t hesitate to contact HVAC repair and HVAC maintenance specialists. 

They’ll take care of the problem quickly. It’s better to be cautious than sorry, and it’s good to pinpoint the source of the problem as early as possible.Mainline Heating and Air 

Mainline Heating and Air has been providing dependable heating and air conditioning service in the Alabaster, Birmingham, Jefferson/Shelby, and Pelham county area since 1989. We also offer quality products, including air conditioners, air handlers, gas furnaces, heat pumps, home generators, package units, tankless hot water heaters, humidifiers, UV lights, dehumidifiers, and filtering systems. Our excellent team of experts aims to help you select the comfort system that best suits your home and your resources. Contact us today at (205) 664-4751.