A breakdown in your HVAC system can swiftly become a source of misery, particularly in the face of severe weather. Despite the urge to panic, you can try a few things to figure out what’s wrong and maybe fix the HVAC before you call a pro. This will allow you to try and get your system up and running again without spending a fortune on repairs.
1. Check the Thermostat Settings
Incorrect thermostat settings are a common cause of systems that don’t function correctly. Be sure to choose “cool” or “heat” as the desired setting, and then adjust the temperature to be lower than the room temperature if you want to cool it down or higher if you want to heat it up. If the thermostat is battery operated, check that the batteries are in good condition; otherwise, the device may not work properly. Do not accidentally set your programmable thermostat to a time that doesn’t suit your needs.
2. Look at the Fan Settings
HVAC systems need good airflow to operate correctly. You can regulate the airflow in your home by adjusting your thermostat’s fan setting. The best way to do this is to switch the fan’s setting to “auto” from “on.” When left in the “on” position, the fan will spin nonstop regardless of whether the system is cooling or heating. When set to the “auto” position, the fan will only turn on when the heating or cooling system is actively operating.
3. Inspect the Circuit Breaker
A tripped circuit breaker is another common cause of failure of your HVAC system. To see if this is the problem, you’ll need to go to your home’s electrical panel, which should have a breaker for your HVAC system. Turning it off and then back on again will reset it if it has tripped. But if it happens more than once, it can indicate a more serious electrical problem that needs fixing.
4. Replace or Clean the Air Filter
If the air filter is dirty, it can restrict airflow, causing the HVAC system to work harder than necessary or even shut off entirely. The system can eventually overheat or freeze due to the absence of airflow. If you’ve not changed the filter in a while or if it’s dirty, cleaning or replacing the filter may fix the performance problem. Depending on how often you use your HVAC system and the quality of the air in your home, you should change the filter every one to three months. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for your system to ensure you’re using the right size and type of filter.
5. Check the Air Vents for Blockages
Verify that all of your home’s vents are open and free of obstructions by walking around the house and checking each one periodically. Your HVAC system will have to work harder than required if even a partial blockage of vents prevents airflow. Cleaning the vents regularly is also crucial because dust and debris can settle within them.
6. Reset the System
To fix small problems, try pressing the reset button on your HVAC system. If it senses an issue, like overheating, some systems contain an inherent safety feature that turns off the device. You can sometimes fix these errors and get the device working again by resetting the system. Reset instructions are usually located in the user manual or on the manufacturer’s website; make sure to follow them precisely for your system. If resetting it fails to fix the problem, you might have a more significant issue to address.
7. Inspect the Outdoor Unit
The outside unit of your HVAC system is susceptible to weather conditions, which might cause operational issues on occasion. Look for twisted fins, rubbish, or any other obvious signs of damage to the external unit. If you notice anything unusual, contact a professional. When the unit gets dirt, leaves, or even little animals inside, it can stop working. You should also make sure there’s a minimum of two feet of space surrounding the unit to facilitate airflow. If you’re having performance issues, try gently wiping down the outside unit’s exterior.
8. Check for Refrigerant Leaks
When air conditioners break down, it’s usually because of a refrigerant leak. Low refrigerant levels can cause the system to blow hot air. Strict environmental and safety standards prevent homeowners from adding refrigerants themselves. However, you can physically inspect the lines for signs of damage, wear, or leakage. An oily film on the outside of the unit or frost formation on the evaporator coils are common signs of refrigerant leaks. Problems involving refrigerant require the expertise of a trained specialist.
9. Examine the Drain Line
HVAC systems usually produce a lot of moisture, especially air conditioners. This is why HVAC systems have a condensate drain line. When this line becomes clogged or has a hole in it, water can back up into the HVAC unit, leading to significant issues. To see if this is the problem, check that there is no obvious water buildup or obstructions in the drain line. A wet/dry vacuum can sometimes clear obstructions and restore system functionality. Constant blockage of the drain pipe could indicate a more serious issue that needs expert repair.
10. Look for Strange Noises or Odors
When you hear squeaking, clanking, or banging, a loose part or a problem with the motor might be to blame. Mold, electrical problems, or overheated parts could be the causes of a musty or burning smell. Keep in mind that ignoring these signs can result in more serious issues down the road. Call a professional for an inspection if you hear or smell anything out of the ordinary that won’t go away.
11. Test the System After Basic Troubleshooting
After you’ve gone through the basic troubleshooting procedures, it’s time to test the system. Depending on the season, adjust the thermostat to a lower or higher setting than the room’s current temperature, and wait for the system to activate. Keep a careful eye on the HVAC system in case it starts working normally again.
12. Call a Professional HVAC Technician
The next step is to call a professional HVAC expert if the problems persist after trying the aforementioned solutions. When it comes to more complicated issues, a certified and skilled technician is your best bet for accurate diagnosis and repair. Never risk injury or the loss of any warranties on your HVAC system by trying to remedy major problems on your own.
Whenever you experience an issue with the HVAC system in your home, A/C & Plumbing Doctors is here to help. Our technicians have vast experience and training in the HVAC industry, allowing us to effectively identify and fix HVAC problems of all kinds. We also specialize in water leak detection, water heater installations, trenchless sewer repairs, gas line services, ductwork, indoor air quality solutions, and so much more. Call us now to schedule an HVAC tune-up or inspection or AC repair for your home in Gilbert, AZ.
