Residential and Commercial Services

Common HVAC Repair Issues

When it comes to keeping our North Carolina homes comfortable, an HVAC heating and cooling system plays a crucial role. But over time, just like any mechanical system, HVAC units may experience problems that need to be fixed. Understanding some of the common problems can help homeowners stay ahead of potential issues and ensure their HVAC systems continue to run smoothly. As a trusted Raleigh HVAC contractor, here are some of the most common calls we get for repair and replacement services:

Air Conditioning Issues

On the cooling side, central air conditioning systems can present a number of problems. One common problem we see is refrigerant leaks. The cooling process relies on refrigerant, which transfers heat from indoor air to the outside. However, leaks may appear in the connections, coils, or refrigerant lines, which could result in system damage and a decrease in cooling efficiency. Signs of a refrigerant leak could include decreased cooling efficiency, hissing noises, or ice buildup on the evaporator coil.

Compressor failure is another potential problem with central air conditioning systems. The compressor is in charge of moving refrigerant throughout the system; when it breaks down, the cooling process as a whole is interfered with. Overheating, mechanical wear and tear, or electrical problems can all lead to compressor failure. If you notice warm air blowing from vents, unusual noises, or frequent system cycling, you're compressor may be on the fritz.

Additionally, airflow problems can impact both heating and cooling systems. Blocked or restricted airflow can strain the HVAC system, leading to reduced efficiency, uneven heating or cooling, and increased wear on components. Common causes of airflow issues include dirty or blocked air filters, obstructed vents or ducts, or malfunctioning blower motors. This can definitely cause an unwanted spike in your energy bills!

If your air conditioner is presenting any of these problems, give an ac repair service call to the Raleigh HVAC pros at Surefire Heating and Air Conditioning today! You will see why we are the most reliable for AC repair Raleigh NC.

Air Conditioning Maintenance

Like all systems in your house, regular maintenance will make sure everything is running smoothly and ready to work properly. As a homeowner, you are likely not aware of all the potential issues that could arise with your HVAC systems. Take this small contactor, for instance (pictured above). Though it is a tiny part of your AC system, if the contactor goes, the system will not work. And you will be stuck with a hot house!

Don't let a burned contactor leave you stranded this summer. Schedule your spring maintenance today and let Surefire Heating & Air Conditioning ensure your HVAC systems are good to go.

Heating Issues

The heating components of an HVAC system have their own list of potential problems. Issues with heat pumps and furnaces can include clogged filters, thermostat malfunctions, and ignition failures, and boilers have their own unique problems. Here are some of the common issues we see:

Boilers are a common type of heating system that uses water or steam to distribute heat throughout a home. A faulty thermostat is one problem that can occur with boilers. Without being able to provide an accurate temperature read, a broken thermostat can prevent the boiler from turning on or off when needed, leading to temperature inconsistencies and discomfort. Additionally, a build-up of minerals in the water tank of the boiler can restrict water flow and lower heating efficiency. This buildup (or scaling) can result in reduced heat output, increased energy consumption, and potential damage to the boiler's components.

Furnaces are another popular heating option, typically powered by natural gas, propane, or electricity. One common issue with furnaces is a dirty or clogged air filter. A dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing the furnace to work harder to heat the home and potentially causing overheating or system shutdowns. Ignition problems are also common in furnaces, whether due to a faulty pilot light, ignition control module, or thermocouple. Ignition issues can prevent the furnace from starting up at all, leaving the home without heat during cold weather months.

Heat pumps are versatile heating and cooling systems that extract heat from the air or ground and transfer it indoors during the winter months. One issue that can occur with heat pumps is a malfunctioning reversing valve. The reversing valve controls the direction of refrigerant flow, allowing the heat pump to switch between heating and cooling modes. If the valve fails, the heat pump may become stuck in one mode, resulting in inadequate heating or cooling. Last, and similarly to central air conditioner units, another potential problem with heat pumps is refrigerant leaks. Leaks can cause a drop in heating efficiency and, if left unaddressed, may result in costly repairs.

Call Surefire for Heating and Cooling and the BEST AC Repair Raleigh NC has to Offer

Our technicians have over 10 years of experience servicing all the common HVAC issues listed above, and then some. We're sure you understand that regular maintenance and prompt repairs are key to addressing many of these issues. Call to have your HVAC systems checked by us today, and consider our Maintenance Program.

With the Maintenance Program, you have annual scheduled inspections and tune-ups that can help identify potential problems early, allowing for timely repairs and maximizing the lifespan of your system. Of course, addressing issues promptly can help prevent more extensive and costly repairs down the line - saving you money! 

Contact us today for a Free Quote on repairs, maintenance, or full system installation or replacement!

Russ R.

May 2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Extremely quick turnaround on replacing our 23 year old PTAC when we were having trouble finding anyone that could even do the work. Very thorough testing after install. Thrilled to have things cool again. Highly recommend!

Ben B.

June 2024

Thomas R.

July 2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Excellent service. I highly recommend calling Surefire Heating and Air for all your HVAC needs