5 Common Boiler Issues & Troubleshooting Tips

As boilers grow in popularity across the U.S., some tout them as the perfect way to control the temperature in your home. They utilize gas, oil, or electricity, which they burn to heat water, which then flows as steam through a series of pipes and radiators to warm the home.

Boilers can often also heat water for household use. These appliances boast a long average lifespan and are known for delivering heat evenly and consistently.

Regardless of how trustworthy your boiler is, you’re bound to run into an issue down the line, just like any other appliance. When this happens, it’s critical that you have a team of professionals ready to help when you need it.

A technician works on a boiler

The Top 5 Boiler Issues Users Face

A boiler can face many issues, but we’ve narrowed them down to the top five complaints we get the most, as well as some troubleshooting help.

Your Pilot Light Is Out

There’s an easy way to tell if a boiler is working: a pilot light. The pilot light is a small blue flame that runs to ensure the system is working as it should while receiving the proper gas supply for your boiler. If you see the light is out, there’s an issue.

When your pilot light goes out, it’s likely because the thermocouple on your system has broken, causing your gas supply to be cut off within the boiler. Luckily, you have a couple of options to try to fix this yourself. You can attempt to reignite the flame yourself or read the manual that came with your boiler if reigniting the light doesn’t work. If the light continuously goes out, it’s time to call BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning.

Lack of Heat or Hot Water

While a pilot light can be fixed easily by yourself, figuring out the cause of a lack of heating may be more challenging. If your boiler has ceased heating your home or your water, it’s time to call in a professional. Luckily, the techs from BVSM know exactly what parts do what and which ones to replace, making this (usually) and quick and easy fix.

Water Leaking Around Your Boiler

One of the trickier things on our list is figuring out what is causing a water leak around your boiler. There could be a damaged part, eroded pipes, or a slew of other causes when it comes to leaks.

If you notice that your boiler has started leaking or find large pools of water by your boiler, you need to contact a professional immediately. Trained professionals can inspect your boiler, identify the issue, and craft a high-quality solution to stop your boiler from leaking.

Unusual Noises Coming From Your Boiler

Another issue that calls for professional inspection is hearing unusual noises from your boiler. Like the other reasons, this issue requires a professional diagnosis because many sources could be causing it. Before diving into those, it’s important to note that a low hum is a normal sound for a boiler to make. Anything else, though, is a sign of trouble.

When your boiler makes noises, you could have a variety of problems. The common answer is air in the system; however, there are other low-level possibilities as well. For example, there could be an issue with the pump within your system, or it could be related to low water pressure. Since there are so many options, you’ll need a professional to step in.

Boiler Is Not Connecting to Your Thermostat

An often overlooked issue with boilers is that homeowners can’t connect their boiler system to their thermostat. After all, what’s the point in having a boiler if you can’t tell what temperature you’re setting your home to? The most common fix is just making sure all your settings are right. When setting up a boiler, it can be easy to end up with a wonky thermostat.

If you’ve double-checked everything and ensured it wasn’t an accident, the next step is to check your thermostat. You’ll need to make sure the settings are correct, it’s got batteries, and everything is paired properly. If that doesn’t do the trick, then it’s time to consult a professional or manual for your boiler and thermostat.

Choose BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning for Fast, Affordable Boiler Repair

The team at BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning doesn’t mess around when it comes to the quality of your home’s boilers. For over 65 years, we have provided outstanding services throughout Monaca, Beaver Valley, and surrounding communities. With a commitment to greatness, a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and NATE-certified technicians, you can trust us with your home. From boiler repairs to installations and maintenance, we’ve got you covered.

Don’t hesitate to schedule boiler repair services today. Just call 724-417-9550 or schedule an appointment with BVSM online!

Heat Pumps vs. Furnaces: Which Is Right for Your Pennsylvania Home?

When it comes to heating a home, there are a few options. Furnaces have been popular for a long time, but heat pumps are having their moment. These systems move heat from one space to another to provide warmth, working very efficiently in the process.

It can be tough to tell which type of heating system is right for you. If you’re in the market for a new heating system, consider the benefits of heat pumps before purchasing another furnace.

Heat Pumps: What Are the Pros?

Heat pumps offer a variety of benefits compared to furnaces. The first advantage of these systems is their ability to both heat and cool.

A furnace will only provide heat, while a heat pump moves heat from inside the house to the outside for cooling and vice versa for heating.

Another major perk of heat pumps is their energy efficiency. They use far less energy to heat and cool your home. Gas and electric furnaces will use more energy, costing you more in the long run.

In general, heat pumps are also less expensive to install compared to other HVAC options. Installing a new furnace and air conditioner is usually more costly than installing a single heat pump to do both.

Finally, heat pumps don’t rely on burning any fuel except for a bit of electricity. This greatly reduces the amount of potential air pollutants in your home. Gas furnaces and wood stoves can put a lot of debris into your air, while a heat pump won’t add anything to the air.

Is a Heat Pump Right for My Home?

Several factors need to be considered when choosing to install a heat pump in your home. The size of your home will be important. Large homes may struggle to stay warm with a heat pump, but smaller homes may be perfectly fine to stay heated all winter.

Another factor is the cold temperatures in certain areas around Pennsylvania. Some areas are much colder than others, and a heat pump may not be as effective. In other areas, however, temperatures barely go below freezing, and a heat pump can be more than sufficient.

It’s best to talk with a professional HVAC technician like the pros at BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning before deciding. We can discuss your needs and help you determine if a heat pump or furnace is best for you.

You Can’t Go Wrong With BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning

For nearly 70 years, BVSM has been making homes more comfortable. Our NATE-certified technicians are experts in their work and use the best tools to install the best HVAC systems.

We also provide furnace and air conditioner repairs, replacements, and maintenance. Look to our team to get your HVAC system working right.

Schedule a heating system installation today — call BVSM at 724-417-9550 to get started.

Indoor Air Quality Tips for Dry Winter Air

The air inside your home can become terrible during the winter months. When your heater runs constantly, it can deliver pollutants into the air. With the windows closed all season, bad air doesn’t have much chance to escape. It’s important to do what you can to keep your air as clean as possible in the winter.

With the right techniques and systems, you can experience high-quality air in every room during winter. Look at our tips for keeping your air quality high during the year’s coldest days.

Indoor Air Quality in the Winter

The quality of indoor air is commonly lower than that of outdoor air. A lot of dust and debris can enter your home and cause allergic reactions or serious respiratory issues. Just a few causes of low air quality in the winter include:

  • Recirculated air: During the winter, your doors and windows are closed more often, leading to the same air being circulated all day. If there are pollutants in your air, they don’t have much chance to escape.
  • Pet dander circulation: If you own a pet, their dander enters the air all the time. During the winter, this dander can circulate throughout the home easier than at any other time of year.
  • Pollen and mold: If you have flowering plants in your home, pollen can enter your air and spread around whenever the HVAC system runs. If mold is present anywhere, the same can happen.
  • Pollutants from heating units: Certain heating units, like wood stoves, emit pollutants into the air. These systems can cause issues for the air in your home during the winter months.
  • Drier air: In the winter, you run your heating system more often, drying out the air throughout your home. This dry air allows for pollutants to fly more easily throughout the rooms.

Tips for Combatting Bad Indoor Air Quality

While air quality may suffer during the cold months, there are remedies to improve things. A few actions you can take to clean up your home’s air include:

  • Installing air purifiers: An air purifier can pull in air and clean it up before returning it to the room. Single-room and whole-home units can provide clean air for a single or whole-house, respectively.
  • Cleaning air ducts: The air duct system in your home can get clogged up with dust and debris after years of use without cleaning. A professional HVAC technician can clear the line, reducing the number of pollutants delivered into your home.
  • Upgrading air filters: There are many different grades of air filters on the market. Installing new air filters more often during the winter and using a higher-grade filter can help clean your air.
  • Adding a humidifier: Humidity levels are much lower inside a home during the winter. A whole-home humidifier can add moisture to the air, helping grab dust and other pollutants and making them easier to filter.

Tips for Combatting Dry Air in Your Home

A humidifier can be the best option if your air seems dry. BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning offers humidifier services throughout the Monaca area. These units add moisture to the air and help dampen pollutants so they can be filtered more easily.

Improving ventilation by opening all vents and occasionally opening windows can improve air quality. Ensure that any heating units are properly ventilating out of the house. Consider removing plants for the season to avoid pollen development.

These tips and systems can greatly improve the quality of your home’s air during the dry and cold winter months. For indoor air quality services in Monaca, turn to the team at BVSM. Call 724-417-9550 today to learn more.

What Does Hold Mean on a Thermostat?

Programmable thermostats have become increasingly popular thanks to their ability to help families save on monthly energy costs by scheduling HVAC usage only as needed. However, the term “hold” can confuse those unfamiliar with how programmable thermostats operate.

If you’ve recently installed a programmable thermostat and aren’t sure about the “hold” setting, don’t worry. In this blog post, we explain exactly what “hold” means on a thermostat and how this feature can help you optimize the comfort level in your home.

How Programmable Thermostats Work

Before we cover the hold setting, it’s important to first cover the basics of how a programmable thermostat operates. Unlike a traditional thermostat that requires manual adjustments when you want to change the temperature, programmable thermostats let you create a custom schedule for your heating and cooling system.

With a programmable thermostat, families can set different temperatures for different times of the day, ensuring the ideal comfort level for when their homes are occupied. This automation allows you to reduce energy usage while you’re away or asleep, saving you money on your monthly heating and cooling expenses.

What Is the Hold Setting?

When you want to keep a consistent temperature for an extended period of time, the hold setting can be a great benefit. A programmable thermostat’s hold setting allows you to override the programmed schedule to set a consistent temperature.

Essentially, it’s the equivalent of hitting “pause” on your thermostat’s schedule, keeping your home at the desired temperature until you turn it off.

A great example of when this might come in handy is during a family gathering or house party. By hitting “hold” on your thermostat, you can keep the temperature in your home at a set level to ensure your guests stay comfortable. Once the party’s over, take the system off hold to resume your programmed schedule.

Why Is My Thermostat Stuck at One Temperature?

If your thermostat is stuck at one temperature, it’s likely because it’s been placed on “hold,” and no one has manually set it back to its regular schedule. This can sometimes happen if someone accidentally hits the “hold” button.

Another reason for your thermostat being placed on hold is when manual thermostat adjustments are made. When this happens, the thermostat may enter a temporary hold mode to maintain the set temperature until the next programmed schedule change.

How To Take Your Thermostat Off Hold

If you want to take your thermostat off hold, the process is simple. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Find the hold button: It’s usually labeled “hold,” “override,” or has a hold symbol.
  • Press the hold button: This will deactivate the setting and resume your thermostat’s schedule.

Depending on your thermostat model, you may see other buttons, such as “Cancel,” “Run,” or “Run Schedule.” In this case, you may need to press one of these to cancel the hold and resume your programmed schedule.

Schedule Thermostat Repair With BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning

If your thermostat is still stuck on hold after trying the troubleshooting steps above, there may be an underlying issue. Not to worry — the expert HVAC technicians at BVSM are here to help.

With over 60 years of service experience, our thermostat repair specialists will get your system back to working condition in no time.

Request thermostat repair in Beaver Valley today by calling our team at 724-417-9550.

6 Tips for Your Ductless Mini-Split System This Winter

Thermal insulation, house energy efficiency concept isolated on white

As the temperature drops, give your ductless mini-split system extra care this season to reduce the added stress of wear and tear from winter operations. Our team at BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning understands the importance of safeguarding your system to ensure reliable and safe operation you can count on. That’s why we’ve gathered tasks and considerations for your winter preparation checklist.

Here are six tips to help you ensure safe and reliable operation throughout the winter season.

We keep your ductless mini-split system in top shape. Call BVSM at 724-417-9550 for ductless mini-split maintenance in Beaver County, PA. 

Install Your System in an Area With Protective Coverage

Your ductless mini-split system functions by using outdoor air, drawing it in to regulate temperatures within your indoor living environment. During the winter months, snowfall becomes a threat to the efficient and effective operation of your system. When snow accumulates on your system, it prevents your ductless mini-split system from absorbing outdoor air that is heated and transferred into your home.

Installing your unit in a safe and covered environment like an overhang or roof ensures you receive reliable winter heating. Checking that your system is cleared after heavy snow is a good practice to ensure your home is warm and cozy.

Elevate the Outdoor Unit

Nothing is more beautiful than a pristine layer of white snow, except when it impacts your home heating. After hours of snowfall, your system can risk being buried, reducing the airflow needed to keep your home warm. To prevent the risk of system exposure to ground-level snow, we recommend having your outdoor unit installed on an elevated space — at least two feet off the ground.

Enable Ductless Mini-Split Defrosting

Your system comes with a level of self-defrosting protection, but it’s important to turn those settings on in the winter. If you can access the condenser control, set your ductless mini-split system to defrost, which helps to reduce the risk of frost buildup on your condenser coils from moisture. Doing so ensures your system operates efficiently to deliver reliable services and prevent ice buildup and other winter-related issues.

Lower Your Indoor Unit

It may come as a surprise, but lowering your indoor unit has many benefits, including allowing your system to operate at maximum capacity. Make sure your unit is mounted at least 18 inches above ground level. This allows warm air to enter your room at a lower level, circulating upward for more through heating from floor to ceiling comfort.

Pro tip: Keep the area in front of your indoor heating system clear of furniture and other obstructions to ensure optimal heating.

Get Protection With an Insulated Cover

One of the best ways to protect your ductless mini-split system from the outdoors is with an insulated cover. These covers protect your system from cold temperatures, ensuring it operates efficiently all winter.

Clean and Replace Your Air Filters

It’s the last on the list and probably one of the easiest things you can do to ensure the performance of your system remains consistent. Over time, debris, dust, and buildup of allergens can clog your filters. Cleaning and replacing filters as needed keeps your system operating at its best, maintaining optimal airflow, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality.

Reliable HVAC Services With BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning

At BVSM, we are committed to keeping your HVAC systems operating at peak efficiency, including comprehensive services for your ductless mini-split systems. With expert installation, repairs, and maintenance, our skilled, experienced, and knowledgeable technicians determine and address your heating issues with prompt, quality services. By scheduling maintenance service during late fall to early winter, you can proactively take the right measures to protect the comfort of your home and the reliability of your system.

Schedule ductless mini-split services with BVSM for your Beaver County home by calling 724-417-9550 today! 

Common Furnace Problems & How To Prevent Them

Technician repairing a gas furnace

Your furnace is vital to your home’s heating system — particularly during the frigid Pennsylvania winters. It ensures that your living space remains warm and comfortable; however, like any home appliance, it can be prone to problems.

Understanding these problems and how to prevent them can help you enjoy a more comfortable indoor environment when it counts.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the most common furnace problems you might experience and provide some valuable maintenance tips to prevent these issues in your home.

Six Common Furnace Problems

Several issues can hinder your heating system’s performance unexpectedly. The most common furnace issues include:

Poor Maintenance

One of the most common reasons for furnace failures is neglecting routine maintenance. Over time, dust and debris can accumulate in the furnace, reducing efficiency and causing unexpected breakdowns.

To prevent this, schedule annual professional maintenance and follow some basic maintenance tasks, such as regularly changing filters.

Dirty Filters

Dirty or clogged air filters can restrict airflow, making your furnace work harder to heat your home. This decreases efficiency and can lead to overheating and damage to key components.

Replace your filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, usually every one to three months, depending on usage.

Ignition Issues

If your furnace’s ignition or pilot control system malfunctions, it may not start or heat properly. This could be due to a faulty ignition system or a dirty pilot light. Regular cleaning and inspection can help prevent these issues.

Thermostat Troubles

Sometimes, the problem isn’t with the furnace but rather the thermostat. A malfunctioning thermostat can cause temperature inconsistencies or prevent the furnace from turning on. Make sure your thermostat is in good working order and replace it if necessary.

Inadequate Heating

If your furnace is blowing cold air or not providing enough heat, it may be due to issues such as a malfunctioning blower motor, a faulty limit switch, or an issue with the gas supply. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can address these problems.

Strange Noises

Unusual noises from your furnace — such as banging, squealing, or rattling — could indicate various problems, including loose components or a failing blower motor. These noises should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.

Preventing Furnace Problems Through Maintenance

Now that we’ve covered some of the most common furnace problems, let’s explore some ways regular maintenance can help prevent them:

  • Annual inspections: Schedule a yearly furnace inspection by a qualified technician. They can identify and address potential problems before they get worse.
  • Replace filters: Regularly replace air filters as recommended by the manufacturer. This improves airflow, reduces strain on the system, and maintains indoor air quality.
  • Clear vents: Make sure all vents and registers are unobstructed to maintain proper airflow throughout your home and prevent your system from overworking.
  • Check thermostat: Verify that your thermostat is functioning properly and replace the system if it’s outdated or showing signs of malfunctioning.
  • Thorough cleaning: Regularly clean the furnace’s blower and fan, and lubricate moving parts to reduce friction. These steps are usually covered during your annual maintenance appointment.
  • Flue & ventilation: Inspect your system for blockages or leaks in the flue and ventilation system to prevent carbon monoxide buildup from threatening your family’s health.
  • Eliminate clutter: Maintain a clean and clutter-free area around the furnace to prevent dust and debris from entering the system and leading to unit failure.

Get Expert Furnace Repair With BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning

Have you noticed any of these common furnace issues with your home’s heating performance? BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning can help. With over 60 years of dedicated service to Pennsylvania families, we’re confident we can quickly resolve even the most complex malfunctions.

Request fast, effective furnace repair in Beaver Valley, PA, by calling BVSM at 724-417-9550 today. 

7 HVAC Maintenance Tips to Get Your System Ready for Fall

Air conditioner surrounded by fall leaves

As the days grow shorter and the air becomes crisper, it’s clear that fall is just around the corner.

While many of us look forward to cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice lattes, it’s also time to prepare our homes for the changing weather. One crucial aspect is preparing your HVAC system for fall.

Proper HVAC maintenance ensures that your system operates efficiently, helps you save on energy bills, and prolongs the life span of your equipment. Here are our top HVAC maintenance tips for helping you get your system ready for fall.

Change the Air Filter

Changing the air filter is one of the simplest yet most effective maintenance tasks for your HVAC system. A clogged or dirty filter can restrict airflow, making your system work harder and less efficiently.

For the best results, replace your air filter every one to three months, depending on your system and the air quality in your area. This will ensure your HVAC system can deliver clean, warm air during fall.

Clean the Vents & Ducts

Over time, dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate in your vents and ducts, reducing the efficiency of your HVAC system. Before fall arrives, clean your vents and inspect your ducts for any signs of blockage or damage.

Consider hiring a professional duct cleaning service if needed. This will improve your indoor air quality and help your system run smoothly during the colder days ahead.

Check the Thermostat Settings

Review your thermostat settings to ensure they’re appropriate for the fall season. Consider programming your thermostat to lower the temperature when you’re asleep or away from home. This can help you save on energy costs while keeping your home comfortable.

Test the Heat Function

Before the chilly fall nights set in, turn on your heating system to test its functionality. Make sure warm air is coming from the vents, and no unusual sounds or odors come from your system. If you notice any issues, promptly contact a professional HVAC technician for repairs.

Seal Any Air Leaks

Inspect your home for drafts and air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings. Proper insulation and sealing of these gaps can significantly reduce energy loss and keep your home warmer during fall and winter. It also lightens the load on your HVAC system, reducing energy consumption.

Consider a Heating Replacement

If your HVAC system is old and inefficient, fall is an excellent time to consider upgrading. Newer systems are often more energy-efficient and can save you money on heating costs in the long run.

Many utility companies also offer rebates and incentives for upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC equipment.

Not to mention, under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), Pennsylvania homeowners can receive up to $2,000 in tax incentives for qualifying heat pump installations and $600 for qualifying installations of oil furnaces, boilers, and natural gas furnaces.

Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection

While DIY maintenance is essential, you also need to have a professional HVAC technician inspect your system at least once a year. A fall HVAC inspection will ensure your system is in good working condition before winter.

Technicians can identify and address potential issues, such as worn-out components or leaks, to prevent costly breakdowns later.

Request Your Heating Tune-Up Today

Don’t let winter come without having scheduled your annual heating maintenance. BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning offers the comprehensive inspections you need to regain confidence in your heating equipment before the cold weather arrives.

Call 724-417-9550 to schedule your heating system tune-up today.

How To Flush a Tankless Water Heater

A tankless water heater is a modern marvel that offers countless benefits, from enhanced energy efficiency to on-demand hot water supply. However, like any appliance, it requires routine maintenance to ensure longevity and reliable performance. One crucial maintenance task is flushing your tankless water heater.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything homeowners need to know about flushing their tankless water heaters.

The Benefits of Flushing Your Tankless Water Heater

Person adjusting the settings on a tankless water heater

There are several advantages to taking the time to flush your tankless water heater each year, including:

  • Enhanced efficiency: Over time, mineral deposits and sediment accumulate in the heat exchanger of your tankless water heater. Flushing helps remove these deposits, allowing the unit to operate efficiently and heat water more effectively.
  • Extended life span: Regular flushing prevents corrosion and scale buildup, which can lead to premature wear and tear on the unit. By eliminating these issues, you can significantly extend the life span of your tankless water heater.
  • Optimal performance: Flushing ensures that your tankless water heater maintains its performance by preventing clogs and maintaining proper water flow. This guarantees a consistent hot water supply, even during peak usage times.

Signs It’s Time To Flush Your Tankless Water Heater

It’s important to know when your system is showing signs of a much-needed flush. Look for these signs, so you know when it’s time to flush your tankless water heater:

  • Decreased water temperature: If you notice a decrease in the water temperature despite adjusting the settings, mineral buildup might be impeding the heating process.
  • Fluctuating water pressure: A drop in water pressure could indicate a partially clogged unit. Flushing can help restore proper water flow and pressure.
  • Strange system noises: Gurgling or hissing sounds from your tankless water heater might be due to sediment or mineral deposits, prompting the need for a thorough flush.

Flushing Your Tankless Water Heater

Call the dependable plumbers at BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning if you’re ready to give your tankless water heater a proper flush. Our plumbers will follow these steps to help clear the way for improved system performance:

  • Switch off the power: Our team will start by turning off the power supply to the unit.
  • Turn off the water: We’ll close the water inlet and outlet valves to isolate the unit from the water supply.
  • Drain the water heater: Our plumbers will attach a hose to the system’s drain valve and direct it to a suitable drainage location. Then, they’ll open the drain valve and allow the water to drain completely.
  • Flush the water heater: We’ll use a pump and a descaling solution recommended by the manufacturer to circulate through the unit and break down mineral deposits.
  • Rinse and drain the unit: After the flushing process, we’ll close the drain valve and disconnect the hose. Next, we’ll open the water inlet valve and allow clean water to flush through the unit, removing any remaining descaling solution.
  • Restore power and water: Once the unit is thoroughly rinsed, we’ll close the water inlet valve and open the outlet valve. Lastly, we will turn on the power supply to the unit.

Trust BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning With Your Tankless Water Heater Needs

When it comes to maintaining your tankless water heater’s peak performance, choosing the right partner is essential. BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning is proud to be the preferred choice for expert water heater solutions. 

Call 724-417-9550 today to request tankless water heater maintenance with our team.

What Causes an AC To Freeze Up? Common Causes & Troubleshooting Tips

When the scorching summer heat arrives, properly functioning air conditioning becomes crucial for your comfort. However, one issue that can disrupt the cool airflow fast is when your AC freezes up.

Here’s what causes an AC to freeze up and some troubleshooting tips you can try. We’ll cover:

  • What does it mean when an AC freezes up?
  • Common causes of an AC freezing up.
  • Troubleshooting tips and potential fixes.
  • Where to find an expert AC technician in Beaver Valley.
Close up view of an HVAC unit

What Does It Mean When an AC Freezes Up?

An AC unit freezing up refers to the formation of ice or frost on the evaporator coils, obstructing the airflow and impeding the cooling process.

Several factors can contribute to this problem, and understanding its underlying causes is essential to prevent or address it effectively.

Common Causes of AC Freezing

Many different culprits might be behind your air conditioner freezing up. Here are a few of the most common causes of this problem:

  • Insufficient airflow: Inadequate airflow is a leading cause of AC freezing. It can result from clogged or dirty air filters, closed vents, blocked return registers, or obstructed ductwork. Restricted airflow prevents the warm air from circulating properly, forming ice on the evaporator coils.
  • Low refrigerant: Refrigerant is crucial in cooling, absorbing heat from indoor air. When refrigerant levels are low, the system can become imbalanced, causing the evaporator coils to become excessively cold and freeze.
  • Faulty thermostat: A malfunctioning thermostat can cause the AC to run continuously, resulting in the evaporator coils becoming too cold and freezing up. It’s essential to ensure the thermostat is functioning correctly and accurately reading the temperature in your home.
  • Dirty coils: Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on the evaporator coils, hindering their ability to absorb heat. As a result, the coils may become excessively cold, leading to ice formation.
  • Blower fan: Problems with the blower fan, such as a malfunctioning motor, worn-out belt, or damaged blades, can disrupt the airflow and cause the evaporator coils to freeze.

Troubleshooting Tips & Potential Fixes

If you notice your air conditioner has started to form ice on the evaporator coils, there are several steps you can take to resolve the problem:

  • Check and replace air filters regularly to maintain proper airflow.
  • Ensure vents and return registers are unobstructed.
  • Clean the evaporator coils to remove dirt and debris buildup.
  • Have a professional inspect and recharge refrigerant levels if necessary.
  • Verify thermostat functionality and accuracy.
  • Schedule regular maintenance to identify and address potential issues before they lead to freezing.

Trust BVSM With All Your AC Repair & Maintenance Needs

Understanding the causes of AC unit freezing is vital for maintaining a comfortable and functional cooling system. Insufficient airflow, low refrigerant levels, and faulty thermostats can all contribute to this problem.

You can address AC freezing effectively by following the troubleshooting tips above and seeking professional help when necessary.

At BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning, our team can troubleshoot and resolve your AC system malfunctions. Whether your unit has started to freeze or you have other air conditioner failures, our experienced team of NATE-certified technicians is here to help.

Request air conditioning repairs or maintenance for your Beaver Valley home by calling 724-417-9550.

Why Does My AC Turn Off By Itself?

Air conditioner maintenance being performed

Is your air conditioning behaving strangely, turning on and off frequently without maintaining a consistent cooling cycle? This issue — known as “short-cycling” — isn’t just frustrating; it may indicate an underlying problem with your cooling system that requires expert attention.

What is Short-Cycling?

Short-cycling is when your air conditioner turns on, runs for a short period, and then shuts off prematurely before completing a full cooling cycle.

Instead of maintaining a steady temperature, the system repeats this rapid on-off cycle, compromising comfort and putting unnecessary strain on the AC unit.

Possible Causes of Short-Cycling

There are several reasons your air conditioner may start short-cycling. These are some of the most common possible causes:

  • Improper sizing: If your AC is too large or too small for your space, it can lead to short-cycling. An oversized unit cools the area quickly, causing it to reach the set temperature too fast and shut off abruptly. An undersized unit struggles to cool the space efficiently, leading to frequent cycling as it tries to maintain the desired temperature.
  • Clogged filter: A dirty or clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing the AC to overheat. To protect itself, the system shuts off automatically, resulting in short-cycling. Regularly cleaning or replacing the air filter at proper intervals is crucial to prevent this.
  • Thermostat placement: Incorrect thermostat placement can lead to inaccurate temperature readings. If the thermostat is exposed to direct sunlight, near a heat source, or in a drafty area, it may sense the wrong temperature, causing the AC to cycle on and off incorrectly.
  • Refrigerant leaks: Insufficient levels of refrigerant due to leakage can cause the evaporator coil to freeze up. This triggers the system’s safety mechanisms, resulting in short-cycling to prevent further damage to the unit.
  • Faulty components: Various faulty AC components, such as a malfunctioning compressor, faulty fan motor, or defective thermostat, can disrupt the proper functioning of your AC system, leading to short-cycling.

Why Choose BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning?

Short-cycling can disrupt the cooling efficiency of your air conditioner and potentially indicate underlying problems with the system. By understanding the possible causes, you can take appropriate steps to address the issue.

When dealing with short-cycling or any other AC issues, it’s best to trust a skilled professional to restore proper functionality to your system.

At BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning, our team is uniquely equipped to handle any short-cycling issues that may impact your home’s comfort. When you choose our team, you can always expect:

  • Expertise & experience: Our highly skilled technicians have extensive experience in diagnosing and resolving AC problems. We have the knowledge and expertise to accurately identify the root cause of short-cycling.
  • Comprehensive solutions: BVSM offers comprehensive solutions tailored to your specific AC and short-cycling issue. Whether it’s recalibrating the thermostat, repairing faulty components, or recommending the right-sized unit, we provide reliable solutions to ensure long-lasting performance.
  • Quality service: We prioritize customer satisfaction and deliver quality service to all our customers. Our technicians work diligently to address your concerns promptly, providing efficient repairs and preventative maintenance to optimize your AC’s performance and prevent future failures.
  • Transparent pricing: BVSM believes in transparency, ensuring you receive fair and honest estimates for services.
  • Excellent reviews: With a track record of satisfied customers, BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning has earned a reputation for exceptional service and reliable solutions. Our positive customer reviews speak volumes about our commitment to excellence.

Let us restore your air conditioner to full functionality by calling 724-417-9550 to request short-cycling repair for your AC system.