Top HVAC Problems in Kansas City and How to Fix Them

If you rely on your HVAC system to stay comfortable year-round, you know how essential it is to keep everything running smoothly. Whether you need air conditioning to beat the summer heat or a reliable furnace to keep you warm in winter, HVAC systems are vital. When they malfunction, it can cause frustration and discomfort. In this guide, we'll walk you through the most common HVAC issues in Kansas City and how to fix them.

When the Kansas City summer heat hits, you’ll want your air conditioning running at peak performance. If your AC isn’t cooling your home correctly, here are some common issues that might be to blame:

• Clogged Air Filters: Over time, air filters collect dust and debris. A clogged filter can significantly reduce airflow and decrease your system's efficiency.
• Refrigerant Leaks: Your AC relies on refrigerant to cool the air. A refrigerant leak can lead to inadequate cooling and higher energy bills.
• Broken Components: An air conditioner has several moving parts, from fans to blower motors. A malfunction in one of these parts could lead to total failure or noisy operation.

Start by checking the thermostat. A malfunctioning thermostat might be the root cause of your issues. If the thermostat is fine, check the air filter. A dirty filter should be replaced immediately.

If the problem persists, you may need professional help. An HVAC technician can diagnose more complicated issues, such as refrigerant leaks or broken components.

Kansas City winters can be harsh, making your furnace a crucial part of your home. If it suddenly stops working, it can create an uncomfortable, even dangerous, environment. Below are some common furnace issues:

• Short Cycling: This occurs when the furnace turns on and off too frequently. An oversized furnace or overheating typically causes it, and it can lead to higher energy costs and system wear.
• Pilot Light Issues: The pilot light ignites the gas to produce heat. It could mean an issue with the gas supply or the pilot assembly if it's out.
• Inadequate Heat: If your furnace isn’t producing enough heat, it might be due to clogged filters, a faulty thermostat, or problems with the gas supply.

Start by checking the thermostat to ensure it's set to heating mode and the temperature is correctly adjusted. If that looks good, ensure the furnace has power. If the problem persists, you may need to call a professional to inspect and repair the system.

More Kansas City homeowners are turning to heat pumps because they provide both heating and cooling in a single unit. While versatile, heat pumps can still experience issues. Here are a few common ones:

• Inefficient Heating or Cooling: This could be caused by a dirty filter, a broken thermostat, or electrical issues.
• Short Cycling: A heat pump that’s too large or improperly sized for your home may short cycle, turning on and off too often.
• Unusual Noises: If your heat pump starts making strange noises, it could indicate loose or broken parts.

Start by checking the thermostat to ensure it's functioning properly. If the thermostat is working but the heat pump is still malfunctioning, it's time to call an HVAC professional. Heat pumps require specialized knowledge, so it's best to leave repairs to an expert.

Your HVAC system plays a significant role in maintaining indoor air quality. When things aren’t working as they should, air quality can suffer, causing potential health issues. Here are some common air quality problems:

• Increased Allergens: A dirty HVAC system can circulate dust, pollen, and other allergens, aggravating allergies.
• Sleep Problems: Poor air quality can cause difficulty sleeping due to congestion or coughing.
• Mold and Mildew Growth: A malfunctioning HVAC system can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can thrive in damp areas.

Changing your air filters regularly (every 1-3 months) is one of the easiest and most effective ways to maintain air quality. You should also schedule an annual HVAC inspection to ensure your system functions properly and effectively filters the air.

Preventing common HVAC problems before they arise is the key to avoiding costly repairs. Routine maintenance is critical in identifying small issues before they become major headaches. At Jack Harrison, we offer comprehensive HVAC maintenance services, including a full maintenance tune-up and inspection, to keep your system running smoothly year-round.