4 Reasons Why Your HVAC Unit is Overheating

01/07/2021

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It would be quite devastating getting home only to find out that your HVAC unit is not working. This is a common scenario when the HVAC system overheats. Once it overheats, it will trip the circuit breaker until the underlying problem is fixed.

Knowing the risk of an overheating HVAC unit, you might be curious to know what causes the problem. Common reasons include a dirty air filter, dirty fan blades, frozen or dirty cooling coils, or too much use of the HVAC system. Let’s break down these reasons and explore some quick fixes.

1. Clogged Air Filter

The HVAC filter prevents contaminants from finding their way into your home. The filter collects a lot of dust, pet dander, and other dirt in the process, which can clog it. When it gets clogged, it means that there won’t be sufficient airflow through the system.

With inadequate airflow, other components are forced to work harder to keep your home comfortable. Following the strain, your HVAC unit eventually overheats. To be safe, check your air filter regularly and replace it if you notice any build-up.

2. Dirty Fan Blades

As time goes by, dirt might build up on the fan blades of your unit. As with a clogged air filter, dirty fan blades will force the motor to work extra hard to keep the fan spinning. Consequently, the strain leads to overheating. Consider cleaning the fan blades from time to time to avoid build-up.

3. Frozen or Dirty Cooling Coils

The cooling coils are part of the outdoor unit. The coils absorb heat from inside your home and release it outside. Notably, these coils can get quite dirty, and that prevents the heat from escaping efficiently.

Therefore, the HVAC unit will have to strain to reach your desired temperature, resulting in overheating. How can you lower the chances of dirty cooling coils? An effective way is scheduling regular maintenance since a technician can spot and fix dirty coils.

4. An Aging HVAC Unit

Like any other machine, your HVAC unit has an estimated life span. As it approaches the end of its working life, its performance might significantly drop. Inevitably, the already underperforming components will have to struggle to keep your home comfortable, leading to overheating.

To avoid falling victim to the problem, consider replacing the unit if it has exhausted its operating life.

If your HVAC unit keeps tripping your circuit breaker, these are some of the possible reasons. While you can fix some on your own, such as changing the air filter, some might need a professional’s attention. Give us a call today for exemplary services.

Resources:

https://www.timothyoffheating.com/about/blog/how-stuff-works/4-reasons-air-conditioner-may-overheat/

https://www.hydesac.com/air-conditioner-overheating-possible-explanations/

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