Showing posts with label DIY AC Repair. Show all posts
Showing posts with label DIY AC Repair. Show all posts

Common Furnace problems and their solutions

With the arrival of winters when days and nights start getting colder, people usually prefer to
carry out the function of their furnaces; particularly Canadians whose most favourite home heating element is nothing but furnace. The problem; however, arises when homeowners feel their Furnace is not working properly and look out for HVAC help to resolve the issue or consider minimizing the issue by applying various DIY techniques.

This blog is dedicated to the solutions to common Furnace problems. But before going into finding the solutions to the problems, we must also throw some light on the most common problems residential furnaces face. Below are some of the most common issues which the furnaces usually face. Their solutions will also be discussed.



Heating problem - Check circuit breaker 

If the furnace is not performing the basic function of producing heat, you might consider checking the Thermostat. If the thermostat is already set to heating then the probable reason for non-functioning is that some fuse is broken. Check if the circuit breaker controlling the Furnace is in the ON position. If this does not help, the problem is in the wiring of the circuit.

Compromised Air Flow - Try cleaning the filters

In case the furnace is working but not producing enough heat and there’s a compromised air flow, ensure that the air filter is clean. This is one of the most essential components of the HVAC system and requires regular maintenance and cleaning. Dirty filters compromise the air flow and burden the system. So if a compromised air flow is felt, make sure you check the air filters and if found dirty, immediately clean/replace them.

Ignition problem - Replace damaged ignitor 

The ignition problem results in decreasing the capacity of the furnace to produce heat. This
problem is common in gas furnaces operating with a thermocouple. For instant resolution of the
issue, inspect the ignitor. In case it is damaged, change it. If this DIY doesn't help, consider calling a professional for help since this portion of the Furnace requires some professionalism and technical knowledge and excessive DIY can result in creating further issues.

Continuous cycling problem - Check filter and Thermostat

A frequently turning ON and OFF Furnace is a sign of trouble. It can be caused by a dirty and old air filter that needs replacement or an improperly programmed Thermostat. Check both.

Noisy blower - Oil it! 

A slight operational noise is normal for a Furnace and how does a normal noise sounds like, you know very well. When an unusual noise from the blower unit is felt, it is most possibly because of the friction in the components. Oil the blower fan for a quick resolve.

Dampness around the unit 

The Furnace unit may develop moisture and eventually dampness around it. Water leaks from the Humidifier connected to the ductwork may as well result in dampness and consequently short-circuiting. To resolve this, dry the unit and its surroundings properly by first switching the system off. If the problem persists, call a professional.

What are the Furnace problems that you frequently face and what are the DIY's you use to resolve them? 

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A DIY guide for fixing iced up Air Conditioner


Whether you're using a Central Air Conditioner, a Split system or a window unit, AC icing up is a scenario that you must have faced if you're already using Air Conditioner for several years. Although this is a frustrating situation and often puts a homeowner in the worries of whether it is time for him to replace his system, it is not a difficult to fix the problem and neither a one that necessarily requires a professional's help. In this blog, we are going to help you find you why your Air Conditioner freezes up and what you can do when that happens. 

Insufficient Air Flow

Air Conditioners work on the principle of throwing inner heat out on the evaporator coil and then bringing the cool air back. But when the Air Conditioner fails to evacuate indoor heat, the evaporator coil doesn't get sufficient heat to keep going with normal operation and instead freezes up as a protest. Well yeah! 

Low refrigerant = Icing up

The refrigerant used in Air Conditioners is usually Freon which is a gas. During operation as the gas expands, the cooling effect is produced. When there's only a limited amount of gas left and the pressure/temperature settings are the same, the gas expands to create an overly cool temperature. As a result, all the moisture/dampness around the evaporator coil turns into ice causing icing.

Temperature changes

Many times, the reason behind AC icing up is the change in the outdoor temperatures. As the temperature drops, the pressure in the unit drops which result in icing up.

Mechanical failures and icing up

Among the most common reasons comes the mechanical failure issues. Blocked air filters, twisted or torn refrigerant lines, improper blower fan operation, all of these have the tendency to cause icing up of the AC unit.

Solutions for fixing iced up AC unit

Let's now talk about some solution to fixing the iced up Air Conditioner unit.

- Clogged Filters as we mentioned above become the reason for causing icing. Check the AC's air filter for blockage. Consider using good quality filters that are also compatible with the system you have and change them at least after 3 months.

- The evaporator coil needs to have a smooth air flow through it. As it gets dirty, there's a blockage of airflow and this results in icing. Make sure the evaporator coils are clean

- A dirty ductwork restricts the air flow and causes the same consequences as the blocked filter does. The air flow restricts and therefore, icing is caused at the outdoor unit

Final word

Keeping appliances maintained is a good way to keep unexpected sudden repairs at par. Nonetheless, HVAC situations like AC icing up, insufficient cooling, AC shut off and similar issues are common and can be faced even by people who do keep their appliances maintained so it is good to keep yourself equipped with the necessary knowledge of their why's and how's.
We hope this blog helped you learn the basics of AC iced up scenario.

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