3 Signs of a Bad Air Handler in Alexandria, VA
An air handler is a large fan component that distributes the hot or cold air that your HVAC system produces around your home. It works in tandem with many different kinds of HVAC systems, and if it malfunctions, it will have some adverse consequences for your comfort in Alexandria, VA. Here are three signs that your air handler may have gone bad.
1. Fan Issues
You should pay close attention to any issues with your HVAC system’s fans. Because of the air handler’s function, fan malfunctions often suggest that the air handler itself may be faulty. To discover whether anything is wrong with your system’s fans, listen for any strange noises and check whether air has stopped moving out of your vents.
2. Blower Motor Malfunctions
The blower motor is the device that powers your HVAC system’s fans. In most air conditioners and heat pumps, the blower motor is located directly inside the air handler unit.
Dirt and other contaminants can clog the blower motor and reduce its efficiency. Also, various parts of the blower motor, like the blower wheel, the run capacitor or the relay, may malfunction. Noises like grinding, whistling and squealing commonly point to these problems.
3. Condensate Pan Leaks
The more strenuously your air conditioner works, the more condensation will appear on the coils inside its air handler. Eventually, the unit will need to get rid of that water, which is why a special condensate pan exists. However, if that pan sustains enough damage, or the condensate pipe becomes clogged, water may leak out of it.
To handle this problem, we recommend calling an HVAC maintenance or repair technician. A tune-up may also be able to take care of your fans and blower motor. In general, you should schedule maintenance at least once or twice per year.
Without a strong air handler, your HVAC system’s performance will decline, and you’ll end up quite uncomfortable in Alexandria, VA this fall. To make sure this doesn’t happen, call Vernon the Heating & Cooling Specialist and ask for air conditioning services.
Image provided by iStock