Zone-control systems regulate airflow and efficiently manage the amount of warm or cold air getting into the rooms. Zone control can reduce incidences of cold spots and, in the process, enhance comfort. Also, temperature regulation is more accurate, and therefore, it cuts down on energy consumption. Unfortunately, the installation has many components that can complicate troubleshooting your AC in your San Antonio home. Here are some common problems you may encounter with zoning systems in the River City.
Faulty Thermostats
The thermostat serves as the central point for temperature regulation in your home. It sends signals to the dampers, which are responsible for regulating airflow through the duct. A faulty thermostat will, therefore, not efficiently condition the rooms.
Sometimes the problem may be a simple issue with the thermostat settings. Temperature regulation across different zones depends on the accuracy of the device. That’s why it should be accurately calibrated right from the time of its installation.
It is also worth noting that the location of the thermostat in your home can also affect its accuracy. The placement of your programmable device should be away from sunlight, lamps and electronics. The ambient heat around these items can force your AC to overwork. A constantly running system will raise your bills and take its toll on your equipment. Your thermostat should also be away from pipes or ductwork as they tend to cool the air around them.
A malfunctioning thermostat is one of the most common problems with zoning systems. Fortunately, you can easily upgrade or replace the device if it’s faulty. If you need assistance, you can consult our NATE-certified technicians today. MD Air Conditioning & Heating provides reliable emergency services in San Antonio.
Control Panel Malfunctions
The control panel is another critical part of zone-control systems. Its principal function is to interpret signals sent to the duct dampers. It also communicates with the thermostat to coordinate the flow of conditioned air. If your system’s panel malfunctions, some zones may not receive adequate airflow.
Faulty wiring on the board is one of the common issues that may cause the control panel to stop working. Loose wires or short circuits can also damage other components in the AC. During installation, the wiring needs to be tested and marked appropriately.
The control panel may also malfunction if it hasn’t been receiving adequate electrical power. Some boards may require an additional transformer to power the components. Your system may also need surge protection to keep the circuit on the panel safe during brownouts and outages.
Stuck Dampers
Dampers are mechanical devices that regulate the airflow through the ducts in response to signals from the thermostat. Automatic duct dampers have a controller that partially opens depending on the airflow required for each zone. When one room is not in use, the dampers remain shut.
A stuck damper will compromise airflow through the ductwork. Dampers can get stuck because of the accumulation of dust and debris. Regular maintenance can reduce such glitches and keep your system efficient throughout the season. If you detect airflow problems, contact MD Air Conditioning & Heating technicians for prompt emergency services in San Antonio.
Leaky Ducts
Leaky ducts will push out conditioned air or draw unconditioned air through the ductwork. Either way, it will interfere with temperature regulation and force your air conditioner to overwork. It can have a significant impact on your indoor air quality and may pose a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Also, leaky ducts can create negative pressure within one or more zones. The lower pressure inside the house can let in air from the gas furnace flue. As a result, the ducts will draw carbon monoxide from the appliance and moisture from outside into your home.
If the size of central air conditioning equipment is larger than the room, it may short cycle. But even worse, your AC may draw enough moisture and pollutants to trigger a microbial infestation. One common sign of leaking ducts is high-pitched sounds such as hissing and howling.
You can prevent most problems with zone-control systems by ensuring that the installation is meticulous. Committing to routine maintenance will ensure that you detect problems at the earliest stages. Keep in mind that even loose connections can cause a system breakdown or an electrical fire.
Top-Notch AC Services
Troubleshooting your zone control systems can be a nerve-wracking experience. You can rely on MD Air Conditioning & Heating for top-notch AC services in San Antonio. We are a NATE-certified and BBB-accredited company that provides repair, maintenance and installation for your heating and cooling systems. For more information on our special offers, call us today.
Tags: HVAC Technology, HVAC Tips, Zone Control