Common HVAC Problems at Sterling, VA Homes- And Solutions

As fall sets in, homeowners in Sterling, VA shall begin to think about the HVAC systems in the homes to get ready for the cold winter weather. Seasonally, it is often easy to find issues with the heating/ cooling systems of homes that went unnoticed when the summer weather prevailed. When HVAC issues are not identified and addressed, HVAC systems may not function efficiently, monthly utility bills can be affected by increased costs, or an HVAC system failure may occur. To help homeowners in Sterling stay comfortable and energy-efficient, it is essential to recognize the common patterns of HVAC issues and solutions that occur in their HVAC systems. 

In this post we will cover 

  • Clogged filters and the effects of them 
  • Thermostat Issues and resolution 
  • Airflow Issues and troubleshooting  
  • Neglected Maintenance & Tune-Ups  
  • System life span & the prep & winterizing  
  • Efficient tips for Sterling Homeowners  
  • Benefits of Smart Thermostats  
  • Data on Sterling, VA area  
  • How Ezist makes it easy for homeowners to request HVAC service/ 

1. Clogged Filters- The Hidden Efficiency Killer

The most encountered issue found in HVAC systems, especially for Sterling homes, is dirty/clogged air filters. Over time dust, pollen, pet dander or other debris, can accumulate in their respective filters causing insufficient airflow, making your HVAC system work much harder. Insufficient airflow causes inefficient use of your system, and inefficient use can lead to more power usage operating the HVAC system.  In a similar vein, clogged filters can even shorten the life expectancy of the HVAC system altogether.  

Why it matters: 

  • Insufficient airflow can cause inconsistent heating/cooling throughout your home. 
  • Insufficient airflow can cause excessive stress on the blower motor, which can lead to costly repairs.  
  • Insufficient airflow can negatively impact indoor air quality; which is unhealthy, and uncomfortable.  

How you can fix it:  

  • It is best to check your filters monthly, especially when the seasons change. 
  • Change disposable filters every one to three months, based on use or as the manufacturer’s instructions indicate.  
  • For reusable filters, be sure they are scrubbed clean and scorched before reattaching.  

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing a clogged filter can improve HVAC efficiency by up to 15% and can lower utility bills in homes in Sterling, VA.

2. Thermostat Troubles: Wrong Readings and Bad Control

The thermostat has a definitive role in controlling the environment for comfort and safety. Bad thermometers lead to bad readings, which leads to uneven temperatures, short cycling, and effective energy usage.  

Here are common problems that arise with thermostats: 

  • Inaccurate readings 
  • Does not control the heating and cooling 
  • Poor placement (within close proximity to a heat source or sunlight) 
  • Older styles or bad models 

Solutions to troubles with thermostats: 

  • Calibrated or faulty thermostats could be repaired or replaced, as needed. 
  • You should consider dielectric the thermostat, to a neutral spot away from sunlight or any air vents. 
  • Installing a programmable or smart thermostat allows for adjusting temperatures automatically based on use, and it can save money while increasing comfort. 

Local HVAC companies in Sterling that look to upgrade older homes’ thermostats report annual heating and cooling reductions of 10-15% by upgrading thermostats.

3.Airflow Problems: Hot and Cold Rooms

Hot and cold rooms or uneven temperatures show signs of bad airflow in a home in Sterling. Typically, this is caused by: 

  • Blocked or closed vents 
  • Ductwork that is blocked 
  • Badly or dirty fan components 

Effect: 

  • Rooms (one) may feel cold while others are hot. 
  • The HVAC unit is working harder, which leads to more wear and more energy consumption. 

Fixes: 

  • Ensure vents are opened and not blocked. 
  • If still having airflow troubles, get HVAC serviced and access ducts. 
  • Check components of fan motors and belts for defects or worn parts. 

According to Home Energy Saver, homes with poor airflow may incur energy expenses 10-20% higher than those with good airflow, so it is essential to address these issues before the winter season begins. 

4. Maintenance Neglected: Preventive Care is Important

One of the reasons HVAC systems fail prematurely is a lack of early annual maintenance. In Sterling, preventive care, including seasonal inspections and tune-ups, can expose problems and save homeowners money on costly repairs. 

Important regular maintenance that can be done: 

  • Cleaning evaporator and condenser coils 
  • Checking refrigerant levels  
  • Checking motors and bearings for lubrication  
  • Examine for wear on electrical components  
  • Perform safety control tests  

Benefits of preventive maintenance:  

  • Increases system lifespan 
  • Decreases chance of emergency repairs  
  • Improves energy efficiency and indoor air quality  

The National Association of Home Builders notes that systems with annual maintenance last 3–5 years longer than those without.

5. Reduced Lifespan: Indications Your HVAC is Due for Replacement 

HVAC systems typically have a physical lifespan of 10-15 years, depending on usage and level of service. Minor problems that progress without repair may also accelerate the wear on the system as a whole, leading to undesired repeated service calls or premature replacement of the system. 

Reducing signs your system is nearing the end of its lifespan:  

  • Resource Strain (more frequent service visits, parts replacement and unable to achieve space temperature)  
  • Noise (increased equipment noise or vibration)  
  • Costs (utility bills increase or are abnormal without changes in use)  
  • Temperature Regulation (temperatures are inconsistent, cold or hot air emit from airflow registers)  

How to protect your system: 

  • Schedule preventive tune-ups twice a year (spring and fall). 
  • Replace worn-out components promptly. 
  • Consider upgrading to energy-efficient models when the system reaches the end of its expected lifespan. 

In Sterling, VA, the average age of the HVAC system is 12 years, highlighting the importance of proactive maintenance and timely replacements. 

6. Preparing your Unit: The Comfort of Winter in Sterling 

If you haven’t already been preparing your HVAC unit, then now is the time of the year you want to put together your unit in preparation for the winter:  

  • Check furnace burners and ignition sequence 
  • Check for drafts and seal leaks in ductwork 
  • Clear outdoor units of leaves and debris 
  • It probably even wouldn’t hurt to double-check that your HVAC unit is operating efficiently 

Investing time in preparing now can prevent an emergency repair call during the cold months, benefiting both your family’s comfort and, more importantly, your home’s economic efficiency.  

Be energy efficient and lower your heating bill! 

Energy Efficiency is beneficial, especially in Sterling, VA, where the average monthly electricity cost is around $134, with heating accounting for approximately half of that bill.   

A few actions to take into account for energy efficiency are below:  

  • Install programmable thermostats 
  • Seal ducts and insulate vents to minimize air leaks 
  • Upgrade to energy-efficient HVAC units 
  • Clean and replace the filters regularly  
  • Tune up your service contractor when needed and follow the HVAC manufacturer’s recommendations 

Making small purchases, such as these, can lead to significant reductions in energy consumption of 20% or more, all to save the homeowner money and improve performance.  

A Point of Tech: Smart Heating 

As a point of tech, many homes in Sterling use smart thermostats as a much more efficient system for home energy for you to heat, while giving you much more control and functionality. 

Advantage: 

  • Learn your routine and adjust temperatures automatically. 
  • Smartphone app remote access. 
  • Integrates other smart home devices. 
  • Alerts when maintenance is needed or shows unusual consumption. 

Homeowners who adopt smart thermostats report lower energy bills, increased comfort, and a longer lifespan for their HVAC systems. 

Sterling, VA HVAC Stats and Insights 

  • Loudoun County continues to grow, the demand for HVAC services will continue to grow. The Loudoun County population grew over 35% in the past ten years. 
  • HVAC repair requests in Sterling almost double from September to December. 
  • Furnace repair costs increase from $180 – $650, depending on the seriousness of the problem. 
  • The average age of HVAC systems in homes in Sterling is 12 years old, making it especially important for regular system care. 

These findings highlight the importance of timely repairs and preventative care to Sterling homeowners. 

How Ezist Makes HVAC Service Requests Easy in Sterling? 

Handling the HVAC services does not have to be complicated. Ezist provides a platform for homeowners and property professionals to track and request HVAC services.  

 Start managing your assets smarter and easier with Ezist:  

Submit a service request and skip the ongoing hold times from professional HVAC repair service:  

Create a Service Request :  https://ezist.net/service-request/ 

Homeowners can avoid the wait time, track their service history, and know they are getting certified members of their HVAC system. 

Conclusion 

Fall in Sterling, VA is the best time of time of year to check your HVAC system. Clogged filters, malfunctioning thermostats, no airflow, not enough maintenance, and age are things your HVAC system professionals are telling you when they see your system. You can save money, energy, and time by proactively taking care of these concerns and making your HVAC systems efficient and effective to improve comfort levels in your home through the colder months. 

Ezist – Free Asset management App can help Sterling homeowners supercharge the request for HVAC services to service and repair, inspection visits, or tune-ups, and peace of mind so you can more efficiently manage your home comfort. 

Let’s get started. Please submit your HVAC service request today!