No matter what you do to conserve, your energy bills seem to be going up. The problem might be that your overtaxed HVAC system is being asked to do too much: Either it’s the wrong size for your home, or there’s a problem with your airflow. Whatever the cause, it will not only cost you more money but result in frequent breakdowns as well, ultimately wearing out the system more quickly. Here are the signs of an overtaxed HVAC unit.
- Constant running. This is the first indication that something is wrong. If your system just runs without stopping, then it’s having a hard time bringing your home to temperature. It has to work harder to heat or cool the space, driving your energy bills up in the process.
- Short cycling. This is a different type of overtaxed HVAC. The system runs for a couple of minutes, then turns off for a couple of minutes, then turns on again, etc. This can be just as taxing to your system and your energy bills as when your system is running continually, since the unit repeatedly shifting on and off wears it out prematurely. Short cycling is often a sign that your HVAC unit is too big for your home and should be replaced.
- Hot and cold spots. If one room is warm while another is cool, that could be a result of your house’s layout. However, if you have hot and cold spots across the same room, it’s a sign that your unit is overtaxed. The air isn’t being distributed evenly, so the system must work harder to compensate.
- Clammy air. Your HVAC system is supposed to dehumidify the air as it heats or cools it. If certain rooms are uncomfortably humid or your skin feels clammy, it could indicate several possible issues. It may mean a drainage problem with the condenser coil, or it might be the result of the wrong-size system. Either way, to make up for that discomfort, your system has to work harder and use more energy.
For help lightening the load on your overtaxed HVAC system, contact us at Ace Hardware Home Services. Dayton’s home comfort is our top priority.
