In Georgia, the summer months are notoriously hot and humid, placing a heavy demand on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
Homes rely on these systems to maintain comfort, regulate humidity, and ensure indoor air quality.
Unfortunately, the combination of high temperatures, humidity, and frequent usage often leads to HVAC issues that require prompt attention.
Homeowners must be proactive in recognizing and addressing problems to avoid costly repairs and ensure efficient operation.
At Holtkamp HVAC & Plumbing, we understand the importance of a reliable HVAC system.
Serving Gwinnett County, GA, since 1996, our team of licensed and certified technicians provides top-rated Georgia HVAC service.
We often encounter recurring problems during peak season, which can disrupt home comfort if left unchecked.
This article explores five of the most common HVAC repairs in Georgia homes and offers guidance on how to prevent or address these seasonal HVAC issues effectively.
Refrigerant Leaks and Low Refrigerant Levels
One of the most frequent HVAC issues during Georgia’s peak summer season is refrigerant-related problems.
Refrigerant is the substance that absorbs heat from your home and releases it outside, allowing your air conditioning system to cool effectively.
Low refrigerant levels can result in insufficient cooling, ice formation on coils, and increased energy consumption.
Refrigerant leaks often occur due to worn-out components, corrosion, or accidental punctures in the system.
Signs of a leak include reduced cooling efficiency, hissing noises near the outdoor unit, and higher-than-normal electricity bills.
Solution:
Repairing refrigerant leaks requires a certified technician to locate and seal the leak, followed by recharging the system with the appropriate type and amount of refrigerant.
Regular maintenance can detect small leaks before they escalate, minimizing seasonal HVAC issues and keeping your system operating at peak efficiency.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
Frozen evaporator coils are another common HVAC repair during Georgia’s sweltering summer months.
The evaporator coil absorbs heat from the indoor air and transfers it to the refrigerant.
When airflow is restricted or refrigerant levels are low, the coil can freeze, preventing your AC from cooling your home effectively.
Several factors contribute to frozen coils, including dirty air filters, blocked vents, and malfunctioning blower fans.
High humidity levels in Georgia exacerbate this problem, as the system struggles to remove moisture from the air efficiently.
Solution:
Addressing frozen coils involves turning off the system to allow thawing, cleaning or replacing air filters, and ensuring unobstructed airflow throughout the home.
In some cases, the issue may indicate a need for a professional inspection of refrigerant levels and blower operation.
Seasonal HVAC issues like frozen coils can be prevented with regular maintenance checks before peak usage periods.
Faulty Thermostats and Control Systems
Even with a well-functioning HVAC system, a faulty thermostat can disrupt home comfort.
Thermostats regulate temperature settings and signal your HVAC system when to turn on or off.
During peak season, thermostat malfunctions are common due to prolonged use, power surges, or outdated equipment.
A malfunctioning thermostat can result in uneven cooling, sudden temperature fluctuations, or a system that refuses to activate.
This not only reduces comfort but also increases energy consumption, as the system may overwork to compensate.
Solution:
A Georgia HVAC service professional can inspect, calibrate, or replace thermostats to restore proper functionality.
Smart thermostats are a popular upgrade, offering precise control, energy savings, and remote access.
Ensuring your thermostat is reliable is key to avoiding seasonal HVAC issues that compromise comfort during the hottest months.
Clogged or Dirty Air Filters
Air filters are the unsung heroes of HVAC systems, trapping dust, pollen, and other airborne particles.
In Georgia, where pollen and humidity levels are high, filters can become clogged quickly, restricting airflow and reducing system efficiency.
Dirty air filters not only affect cooling performance but also contribute to frozen coils, increased energy bills, and indoor air quality issues.
Homeowners often overlook regular filter replacement, resulting in a common HVAC repair that could have been avoided.
Solution:
Replacing or cleaning air filters every one to three months, depending on usage, is crucial.
During peak season, more frequent checks may be necessary to combat high pollen and dust levels.
Maintaining clean filters reduces the strain on your system, prevents breakdowns, and addresses seasonal HVAC issues before they escalate into costly repairs.
Electrical Component Failures
Electrical issues are a frequent cause of HVAC system malfunctions, particularly during the peak summer season in Georgia.
The increased demand on the system can stress components like capacitors, contactors, and circuit breakers.
Symptoms of electrical problems include the AC unit not turning on, tripped breakers, unusual buzzing or clicking noises, and intermittent operation.
Ignoring these signs can lead to complete system failure, which is inconvenient and expensive during the hottest months.
Solution:
Professional inspection by a licensed Georgia HVAC service technician is essential for diagnosing and repairing electrical components safely.
Preventive maintenance can identify worn-out parts, tighten connections, and ensure the system operates reliably during peak usage.
Addressing electrical issues early helps avoid unexpected failures and minimizes seasonal HVAC issues.
Preventive Measures for Seasonal HVAC Issues
While these five HVAC repairs are common in Georgia homes during peak season, many problems can be prevented with proactive maintenance and timely service.
Homeowners should consider the following measures:
- Schedule Regular Maintenance: Annual or biannual HVAC inspections by certified technicians help identify minor issues before they become major problems. Holtkamp HVAC & Plumbing recommends scheduling maintenance at the start of the cooling season to ensure optimal performance.
- Replace Air Filters Regularly: Checking and replacing air filters every one to three months keeps airflow unrestricted, protects indoor air quality, and reduces strain on the system.
- Monitor Refrigerant Levels: Ensure your system maintains proper refrigerant levels to prevent cooling inefficiencies, frozen coils, and high energy bills.
- Inspect Thermostats: Test thermostats for accuracy and responsiveness. Upgrading to a smart thermostat can provide better control and energy savings.
- Clear Vents and Ducts: Blocked or closed vents reduce airflow and strain the system. Keeping ducts clean and unobstructed helps maintain consistent cooling and prolongs system life.
- Address Electrical Issues Promptly: Unusual noises, tripped breakers, or inconsistent operation should be investigated immediately by a professional to prevent system failures.
By implementing these preventive measures, homeowners can reduce the likelihood of encountering common HVAC repairs during peak season.
Regular attention to system health ensures comfort, improves energy efficiency, and extends the lifespan of your HVAC equipment.
Choosing a Trusted Georgia HVAC Service
Selecting a reliable Georgia HVAC service is crucial when addressing seasonal HVAC issues.
A professional and trusted HVAC company can provide timely repairs, preventive maintenance, and expert guidance tailored to Georgia’s climate.
Holtkamp HVAC & Plumbing has been serving Gwinnett County, GA, since 1996.
Our team of licensed and certified technicians is equipped to handle all types of HVAC repairs, from refrigerant leaks to electrical malfunctions.
By choosing a trusted service provider, homeowners gain peace of mind knowing that their system is in capable hands and ready to perform throughout the hottest months.
When searching for “Georgia HVAC service” or “common HVAC repairs” in your area, consider the company’s experience, certifications, and commitment to customer satisfaction.
A local provider familiar with seasonal HVAC issues in Georgia will understand the unique challenges posed by humidity, high temperatures, and pollen, ensuring your home remains comfortable year-round.
Final Thoughts
Peak season in Georgia can be stressful for homeowners if HVAC systems are not properly maintained.
Refrigerant leaks, frozen coils, faulty thermostats, dirty air filters, and electrical failures are among the most common HVAC repairs encountered during these months.
Recognizing the signs early and engaging a trusted Georgia HVAC service can prevent small problems from escalating into major disruptions.
Proactive maintenance, timely repairs, and professional expertise are key to avoiding seasonal HVAC issues and keeping your home comfortable, safe, and energy-efficient.
By investing in preventive care and choosing experienced professionals like Holtkamp HVAC & Plumbing, homeowners can enjoy uninterrupted cooling and reliable HVAC performance, no matter how high the temperatures soar.
Whether you are dealing with a minor repair or a major system issue, addressing problems promptly ensures your HVAC system operates efficiently, protects your indoor air quality, and provides the comfort you need during Georgia’s hot and humid peak season.
FAQs
What are the most common HVAC repairs in Georgia homes during peak season?
The most frequent issues include refrigerant leaks, frozen evaporator coils, faulty thermostats, clogged or dirty air filters, and electrical component failures. These problems often arise due to high usage and the humid climate in Georgia, which places extra strain on HVAC systems.
How can I prevent seasonal HVAC issues in my home?
Preventive measures include scheduling regular maintenance with a licensed HVAC technician, replacing air filters every 1–3 months, ensuring proper refrigerant levels, checking and calibrating thermostats, keeping vents and ducts clear, and addressing electrical issues promptly. These steps reduce the risk of breakdowns during peak season.
How do I know if my HVAC system has a refrigerant leak?
Signs of a refrigerant leak include insufficient cooling, ice buildup on evaporator coils, hissing noises near the outdoor unit, and unusually high energy bills. A certified Georgia HVAC service professional can locate and repair the leak safely.
Why is my AC freezing up during the summer?
Frozen evaporator coils usually occur due to restricted airflow, low refrigerant levels, dirty filters, or a malfunctioning blower fan. In Georgia’s humid climate, this problem is common. Addressing airflow issues and ensuring proper refrigerant levels can prevent freezing.
