If your house feels too hot in summer or too cold in winter, the first thing to check is your HVAC system. A clean filter, proper refrigerant level, and a healthy radiator can make all the difference. Below you’ll find easy steps you can take right now to improve comfort and avoid costly repairs.
Most home HVAC units have three main parts: the furnace or heat pump, the air conditioner, and the ventilation network. The furnace heats air that travels through ducts, while the air conditioner removes heat with refrigerant. Both rely on clean air filters to keep airflow smooth. A clogged filter forces the fan to work harder, which raises energy bills and can wear out the motor.
Replacing an AC filter is one of the cheapest maintenance tasks. Grab a filter that matches your unit’s size, slide it into the slot, and reset the indicator if your system has one. Do this every 30‑60 days if you have pets or a dusty home; otherwise a three‑month schedule works fine.
Another common issue is low refrigerant, often called “low freon” in car talk but the same principle applies to home air conditioners. When refrigerant drops, the unit blows warm air and the compressor may overheat. Look for ice on the coils, reduced cooling, or a higher-than‑normal power draw. In many cases a professional will need to locate the leak, but you can check the pressure gauge on a portable kit if you’re comfortable handling it.
Radiator problems aren’t just for cars; some home heating systems use water‑filled radiators. A faulty radiator can cause uneven heating and noisy pipes. If you notice cold spots or bubbling noises, turn off the system, bleed the air using the bleed valve, and top up the coolant level. For a full radiator replacement, expect labour and parts to run around £300‑£600 in the UK, depending on size and model.
When your HVAC makes strange noises, check for loose panels or debris in the fan. A quick visual inspection often reveals a loose screw or a piece of foliage that can be removed without tools. Tightening the screws and cleaning the fan blades restores normal operation.If your thermostat seems out of sync with the room temperature, replace its batteries and make sure it’s placed away from direct sunlight or drafts. Modern smart thermostats can also self‑calibrate, but a simple reset often solves the issue.
Remember, regular maintenance extends the life of every component. Schedule a professional check‑up once a year, but handle filter changes, bleed valves, and visual inspections yourself. These small actions keep your home comfortable and keep repair bills low.
