Don't Let Your HVAC System Fail: 10 Common Mistakes to Avoid [Infographic]

Maintaining your HVAC system may not be the most exciting household task, but it’s one of the most important. Many homeowners overlook simple HVAC maintenance tips , which can lead to costly repairs, inefficient operation, and even system failure right when you need your unit the most.

To help avoid unexpected breakdowns, our HVAC experts in Howard County have put together an easy checklist for any homeowner to use to catch HVAC repairs before they happen. Simply save our HVAC maintenance checklist and consult it the next time you’re worried about your HVAC unit.

The Importance of Avoiding Common HVAC Problems

Your HVAC system (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) is responsible for keeping your home comfortable year-round. It regulates the temperature, provides proper ventilation, and maintains air quality, ensuring a pleasant indoor environment regardless of the weather outside.

For homeowners in Howard County and surrounding Maryland areas, an annual HVAC maintenance checklist can help you avoid common breakdowns that may be an issue during extreme winter weather, high humidity, or unexpected heat waves.

Proper maintenance of your HVAC unit ensures your HVAC system runs efficiently, reducing energy consumption and preventing costly repairs. A well-maintained system also extends its lifespan, saving you from having to replace the unit early.

With the right HVAC maintenance checklist, you can catch these common HVAC problems before you need to repair or replace your unit, saving you time and keeping you comfortable year-round.

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make with HVAC Systems

1. Ignoring Regular Maintenance

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is neglecting regular HVAC maintenance. Skipping annual HVAC inspections can allow minor issues to snowball into major problems. Preventive care is crucial to ensure your system operates smoothly and efficiently.

A licensed technician can detect worn-out components, clogged filters, and other problems that might go unnoticed.

Solution: Schedule Seasonal Maintenance
Regular seasonal maintenance can help you catch issues early and ensure your system is ready for extreme weather. Schedule HVAC inspections in Howard County with ASC HVAC during fall and spring to prepare for rough weather.

2. Not Replacing Air Filters

Air filters play an important role in keeping your HVAC system running efficiently. Yet, many homeowners forget to replace them regularly, leading to reduced airflow and increased strain on the system. Dirty air filters not only lower indoor air quality but also force your system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and potential damage to internal components.

Solution: Replace Your Air Filters Seasonally
Check your air filters every 1 to 3 months and replace them as they become clogged or ineffective. If you have pets or suffer from allergies, it’s wise to replace air filters once a month to stay on top of energy efficiency and unit health.

3. Blocking Air Vents

Blocking air vents with furniture or other objects can restrict airflow and make your HVAC system work overtime. This not only reduces its efficiency but can also lead to overheating.

When airflow is obstructed, the system has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, which puts unnecessary strain on the unit and can shorten its lifespan. Many homeowners aren’t aware that furniture blocking air vents can have a big impact on the heating and cooling of their home.

Solution: Check Your Air Vents Twice a Year
As you schedule your bi-annual HVAC inspection, this is the perfect time to check your air vents and overall airflow. Ensure rugs, couches, chairs, shelves, and other furniture are not obstructing any vents.

4. Incorrect Thermostat Settings

Many homeowners are unaware that setting their thermostats too high or too low can cause their HVAC system to work inefficiently. Frequent temperature changes can lead to more wear and tear on the unit rather than streamlining heating and cooling.

Solution: Invest in Smart Thermostats
Keeping a consistent temperature and using programmable thermostats can help optimize energy use, reduce wear, and increase comfort. A smart thermostat allows you to monitor and control your HVAC system remotely, so you can take control of your HVAC from anywhere.

5. Skipping Professional Tune-ups

Some homeowners attempt to handle HVAC maintenance on their own, thinking they’ll save money. However, skipping professional tune-ups can lead to missed issues that only a trained technician would spot. This is because HVAC systems are complex. Attempting DIY repairs or maintenance can lead to improper handling and potentially more significant damage down the line.

Solution: Partner with a Local HVAC Company You Trust
Hiring the same HVAC company for HVAC maintenance can go a long way toward saving you money and ensuring you don’t miss common HVAC problems. A few bucks a year can extend your unit’s lifespan by years.

6. Closing Off Unused Rooms

It might seem logical to close vents in unused rooms to save energy, but this can actually upset the balance of your HVAC system. Closing vents can lead to pressure imbalances, causing your system to work harder, which reduces its efficiency and lifespan.

Solution: Use Fans to Distribute Air Flow
If you’re looking to improve the heating and cooling of one room over another, use fans to help move the hot or cold air to its desired location. Open doors when possible to allow all air to distribute evenly throughout your home.

7. Ignoring Strange Noises or Odors is a Common HVAC Problem

Unusual sounds or smells coming from your HVAC system are often signs of trouble. Ignoring them could lead to a system breakdown. Rattling, banging, or strange odors may indicate worn-out parts, leaks, or other serious issues that need immediate attention. You never want to ignore any signs of malfunction from your HVAC unit.

Solution: Check Your HVAC Unit Monthly
At the same time you do your air filters and other maintenance, check the HVAC unit while it is operating. Listen for odd noises and see if you detect any strong odors. If so, call your local HVAC company. Remember, an HVAC unit should be odorless and emit a hum as it runs – any other signs mean a breakdown is coming.

8. Incorrect Sizing of HVAC Systems

An HVAC system that’s too large or too small for your home will result in inefficiency, higher energy costs, and reduced comfort. Too small and you won’t have the energy needed to cool or heat your entire home. However, an HVAC unit that is too large won’t be able to properly regulate the temperature in your home at a consistent level, causing you higher energy bills.

Solution: Consult with the Pros on a New HVAC Unit
Before installing or replacing an HVAC unit, make sure to consult a professional who can assess the appropriate size for your home. Bigger isn’t always better and cheaper isn’t always affordable in the long run, so use the resources available to find the right HVAC installation for your home.

9. Overworking the System in Extreme Temperatures

Running your HVAC system non-stop during extreme heat or cold can overwork it, leading to breakdowns and higher energy bills. Homeowners often neglect their home’s energy efficiency during the high Maryland heat in the summers or crank it in the cold winters, but this overworks the unit outside of its capabilities.

Solution: Monitor Energy Usage and Efficiency
During extreme weather, try supplementing your HVAC with fans or space heaters to reduce strain on the system. Keeping an eye on your energy usage can help you identify when your system might be working harder than necessary, indicating potential problems you want to avoid.

10. Not Understanding Your System’s Age

As your HVAC system ages, it becomes less efficient and more prone to breakdowns. Knowing when to replace it can save you from constant repairs. If your system is over 15 years old and experiencing frequent issues, it may be time to consider a replacement.

Solution: Upgrade Your HVAC Unit Before It Breaks Down
Waiting until your HVAC system completely stops working can be a disaster during extreme weather. Stay on top of maintenance and consult with your HVAC company on when it is best to update your HVAC unit.

Stay On Top of HVAC Maintenance with Ease

Avoiding these common HVAC mistakes will not only save you money on repairs and energy bills but also extend the life of your HVAC system. Regular maintenance, smart thermostat use, and professional tune-ups are essential to keeping your system running smoothly.

Save our HVAC maintenance checklist and keep it handy for each season change – you’ll be surprised how better your unit runs when you stay on top of regular tune-ups and spot disasters before they break down your unit.

HVAC FAQs

How often should I replace my HVAC air filters?
Typically, every 1-3 months, but more frequently if you have pets or allergies.

How do I know if my HVAC system is the right size?
A professional assessment is the best way to determine the correct size of an HVAC unit for your home.

Can I perform maintenance on my HVAC system myself?
You can perform basic tasks like changing filters, but professional tune-ups are crucial to spot repairs.

What are the signs that my HVAC system is failing?
Strange noises, reduced efficiency, and higher energy bills can all indicate potential problems.

How can I reduce my HVAC system’s energy consumption?
Regular maintenance, smart thermostats, and sealing ductwork can all help reduce energy consumption of your HVAC unit.