Is Your HVAC Unit Acting Up? 5 Troubleshooting Tips

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are a must-have during extreme climatic conditions. Given the global warming issue, the HVAC market size is projected to reach USD$310B by 2028, growing at 5.43% annually. You probably have one to maintain a comfortable environment in your home. Unfortunately, like any other appliance, HVACs can sometimes malfunction. Apart from creating an uncomfortable environment, this can also lead to unnecessary energy consumption. This blog will explore some troubleshooting options to help you identify and fix common HVAC unit problems. Try these tips before calling a professional.

Check the thermostat settings

The thermostat is a device that regulates the temperature inside your home or office by ensuring effective 24 hour heating and cooling. It’s essential to ensure that your thermostat is set to the correct mode and that the temperature setting is appropriate for the current season.

In heating mode, the thermostat will signal the HVAC system to produce heat. It signals the system to cool the air in cooling mode. If the thermostat is set to the wrong mode, the HVAC system will not function as intended, leaving you uncomfortable.

Additionally, make sure the thermostat’s batteries are not drained or weak, as this can cause erratic behavior in your HVAC system. A thermostat with weak batteries may not properly communicate with the HVAC unit, leading to temperature fluctuations or failure to turn on the system.

Look for refrigerant leaks

If your air conditioner is not cooling effectively, there might be a refrigerant leak. Leaks can occur in various parts of the system, such as the evaporator coil or the refrigerant lines. If you suspect a leak, contact a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the issue.

Inspect filters

Air filters play a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency and performance of your HVAC system. They are responsible for trapping dust, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne particles, preventing them from circulating throughout your home or office. 

Over time, these filters can become dirty or clogged, which can significantly reduce the airflow and the overall efficiency of your HVAC system.

Regularly inspecting and cleaning your air filters is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. An unclean filter forces the HVAC system to work harder to push air through it, leading to increased energy consumption and strain on the unit. Furthermore, a dirty filter can also compromise indoor air quality, exacerbating allergies or other respiratory issues.

To inspect your filters, follow these steps:

• Locate the air filter in your HVAC system. It can typically be found near the return air duct or the blower unit.
• Remove the filter and visually inspect it. If it appears dirty, dusty, or clogged, it’s time to clean or replace it.
• If your filter is washable, clean it gently using water and mild detergent, then allow it to dry completely before reinstalling it. If your filter is disposable, replace it with a new one of the same size and type.
• Reinstall the filter, ensuring it’s correctly seated and facing the right direction.

As a general rule, you should inspect your air filters every 1 to 3 months. If you see no improvement after cleaning, you may need to consult a professional. The technician will assess your system and ensure that you enjoy 24 hour heating and cooling Centennial, Co.

Examine the circuit breaker

When the circuit breaker detects a fault, it automatically “trips” or shuts off the power to the affected circuit. If your HVAC unit is not turning on, the circuit breaker might have tripped, cutting power to the system and preventing it from operating.

To examine the circuit breaker and address any issues, follow these steps:

• Open the panel cover and look for the circuit breaker that corresponds to your HVAC system. It may be labeled as “HVAC,” “air conditioner,” “furnace,” or something similar.
• Check the position of the breaker switch. If it’s in the “off” position or somewhere in between the “on” and “off” positions, it has likely tripped.
• To reset the breaker, first, move the switch to the “off” position, and then switch it back to the “on” position. This should restore power to your HVAC unit.

If the breaker trips again shortly after resetting it, do not attempt to reset it multiple times. This could indicate a more serious electrical issue, such as a short circuit or an overloaded system, which requires the attention of a professional electrician or HVAC technician.

Monitor energy consumption

If your energy bills are unexpectedly high, it could be a sign that your HVAC system is not functioning efficiently. Review your energy usage and consider having your system inspected by a professional to identify any potential problems.

Conclusion

A fully functional HVAC system ensures a comfortable and relaxing environment. If your air conditioner isn’t working properly, it might be time to consider the troubleshooting tips mentioned in the article. Check and test the thermostat settings, inspect the filters, and examine your circuit breaker. If nothing seems to work, don’t hesitate to consult a professional technician.

Photo by Michal Matlon on Unsplash