If your heating and cooling system has gone on the fritz, it can leave you feeling very uncomfortable. While the obvious solution is to call in a professional, there are some troubleshooting tips that could get your system up and running again quickly.
Failure to Turn On
One of the most common issues affecting HVAC systems is when it won’t even turn on. This is usually because there is no power or it is not receiving the correct signals. Fortunately, there are a number of troubleshooting points that may allow you to correct the underlying problem.
The first step is to check your thermostat. It should have power and with the appropriate settings selected. If you want to test your thermostat, try turning the temperature up or down to see if the system does turn on. If this works, you may have a faulty sensor that is failing to initiate a cycle.
You also need to check that your system is receiving power. Check the breaker has not been flipped or that the fuse hasn’t blown. You should also check the switches near your condenser unit outdoors and your indoor air handler, as they may have been switched off accidentally.
No Cool or Warm Air or Lower Airflow
Airflow issues are generally caused by an air leak or blockage. You’ll need to check your air filters to ensure that they are not clogged. A clogged filter will prevent air from passing through the system, and it may even cause the system safety protocols to trip. If you do find your filters are dirty, you’ll need to clean or replace them, just be sure to put the new filter back in the correct direction.
You should also check your ducts and vents. If you’ve not used your HVAC system for a few months, it is possible that furniture or other items may have been moved to block vents. You should also check that sections of ductwork have not suffered obvious damage.
If Troubleshooting Hasn’t Worked
If you’ve been through these troubleshooting steps and your system is still not working correctly, you’ll need to call in a professional HVAC specialist for help. If you don’t currently have a reputable and reliable contractor, be sure to look for a certified technician. It is well worth conducting a little research to find a contractor with a great reputation and excellent customer reviews. If you have friends, family or work colleagues who have had a positive experience, obtain a recommendation. A fully licensed and insured contractor will provide you with protection and reassurance that they have the expertise to assess and repair your HVAC equipment.
If you’re experiencing HVAC issues, and have exhausted troubleshooting, you can rely on a professional HVAC specialist to provide a reliable solution. Ideally, you should contact a company who is authorized or certified by your HVAC equipment manufacturer, so you have the assurance that the technicians have received training specific to the equipment brand. An authorized HVAC professional will be able to tackle the toughest repair issues and get your system operating correctly as quickly as possible.