How to repair heating and air conditioning?
Broken HVAC systems are a part of our lives. However, they really give us a headache when we wake up to a chilling house in winter or find our AC blowing hot air on a sunny day. But you don’t have to panic as you can get your HVAC system back to work with simple fixes or call an expert like Mr. Good Guy to get it sorted as fast as possible.
Here at Mr. Good Guy Heating and Air, we believe in empowering our neighbors. Sometimes, a quick check can save you from long waiting and unnecessary expenses, getting you comfortable again in no time. Plus, learning a little about your HVAC system can help you spot bigger issues earlier. Before we dive in, remember: safety first! Always turn off the power to your unit before touching anything, and if you’re unsure, call an expert for professional HVAC repair and maintenance service.
Who is an HVAC technician?
An HVAC technician is a professional who installs, maintains, and repairs heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. These systems are responsible for keeping indoor spaces comfortable by controlling temperature, air quality, and humidity. HVAC technicians work in homes, businesses, and factories, ensuring these systems run smoothly and efficiently.
HVAC technicians are skilled in troubleshooting problems with heating and cooling systems. They must also be familiar with working with refrigerants and must follow safety protocols to avoid accidents during their work.
Let's learn how to repair some common heating and air conditioning issues.
1. Inspect the power
The first step is to make sure that your HVAC system is receiving power. Make sure to follow these:
- Check if the power switch near your HVAC unit is turned “on”.
- Make sure the heating and air conditioner is plugged in properly.
- Make sure that the emergency shut-off switch is “on”.
- Head to your electrical panel to see if a breaker has tripped or if a fuse has blown.
- Ensure the power source is functioning correctly. Check if a broader power outage is affecting your home by testing other electronic devices.
What to do if the fuse is blown?
For a blown fuse, you can replace it with a new one. If the problem persists after restoring power, there might be a more serious electrical issue at play. In such cases, it’s best to contact a professional Like Mr. Good Guy, as electrical work can be both dangerous and complex.
What to do if the breaker has tripped?
Check for circuit breaker trips, as they can disrupt the power supply to your heating and air conditioning system. Switch the circuit breaker off and on, then wait five minutes before turning your unit back on. If the circuit breaker continues to trip, it might indicate a more serious electrical issue requiring professional intervention.
What to do if the emergency shut-off switch is off?
For your AC, this switch will often be in a metal box outside near the unit. For a furnace, the emergency shut-off switch may be on or near the furnace. It may also be on the ceiling in front of the furnace or simply somewhere in your basement. It usually resembles a standard light switch.
Make sure the switch is in the “on” position. If it already is or your unit still won’t start after flipping it, then you should call our experienced HVAC technician.
2. Check the air filter
A clogged air filter can obstruct airflow and drastically diminish the heating or cooling efficiency of your HVAC system causing the system to overheat and shut down. To check the filter, remove the access cover or door to the filter compartment and inspect it. If the filter is dirty, it’s time to replace it. Typically, you should be replacing the filter every 3 months. However, certain variables can affect how quickly the filter gets dirty, like filter size, having pets, or using the system daily.
To ensure the new filter is installed correctly, schedule our HVAC repair service, as an improperly installed filter can cause more issues. You can also benefit from our affordable HVAC maintenance service to regularly inspect and replace the air filters for maintaining optimal airflow and heating performance.
System testing & performance evaluation
HVAC technicians perform tests and measurements to assess the performance of HVAC systems. They use specialized tools to check airflow, temperature, pressure, and refrigerant levels. Based on the results, they make adjustments or recommend system upgrades or improvements to improve efficiency and energy savings.
3. Check your thermostat
One of the most common reasons your HVAC is not working could be due to incorrect thermostat settings. Make sure your thermostat is set to “cool,” “heat,” or “auto” according to your need. Check the temperature on your thermostat. If you have set it properly but your home’s temperature is inconsistent, you might need to change the batteries. This could also be the case if you notice your HVAC system is taking longer to respond when you turn it on or off.
4. Look for airflow obstructions
Sometimes, when your heating or air conditioning system isn’t working properly, the issue isn’t with the HVAC unit itself. You may have airflow obstructions and you need to check the following:
Vents & registers
Ensure that all vents and registers are open and unobstructed by furniture, rugs, or other items. Blocked vents can prevent air from circulating, causing your system to work harder and resulting in uneven heating or cooling.
Dampers
You should also check your HVAC dampers. If you notice some areas of your home are more comfortable than others, dampers in the system may be blocking airflow to certain rooms.
Evaporator coil
A frozen evaporator coil can block airflow and stop your air conditioning system from working properly. To address this, turn off the system and schedule our prompt HVAC repair and maintenance service to get it checked for underlying issues such as dirty coils or blocked air ducts.
5. Check the outdoor unit or condenser
The condensor is usually located outside the home that’s why it is exposed to dirt, dust, and debris buildup. If your HVAC system’s efficiency is affected, we recommend mowing the lawn around the condenser or removing any other obstructions. Then, clean the condenser coil with a commercial cleaner and remove dirt from the fins with a brush.
Ice accumulation on or near your outdoor unit usually indicates a blockage in the condensate line or a refrigerant leak. To address this, remove any ice buildup and inspect the condensate line for blockages. If the issue persists, contact Mr. Good Guy to professionally check for refrigerant leaks and other underlying problems that may be affecting your system’s efficiency.
If you find yourself seeking repair frequently, consider protecting your condenser unit with plastic sheeting or a custom condenser unit during the fall and winter.
6. Resetting your HVAC system
Sometimes a simple reset of your HVAC system can improve heating or cooling problems. This can be particularly useful if the protection circuit breaker has been activated following a power outage.
Find the small, red reset button on or near your AC unit. It is often located inside a small hole or near the bottom of the exterior of the unit. If you’re having trouble locating it, consult the manufacturer’s manual or search online.
7. Check the drain pans
Overflowing drain pans or a clogged drain line can prevent your heating and air conditioning system from functioning. They can also lead to condensation leaks outside the unit. To check them, turn off the power to the unit and remove the access panel that leads to the drain pans.
Next, examine both the drain pan and the overflow drain pan. Empty and clean them thoroughly if they’re full. Then, inspect the drain line using a flashlight and remove any visible debris. If you notice any dents, holes, cracks, or rust, it’s best to call our professional team to inspect the system.
8. Check the refrigerant levels
Low refrigerant levels can cause your air conditioner to struggle to work properly. This issue often requires professional intervention to check and refill the refrigerant levels. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, promptly contact our HVAC professionals. We can identify and address the issue to ensure the safe and efficient operation of your system.
When to call Mr. Good Guy?
While some HVAC fixes are easy to tackle yourself, there are times when you absolutely need a professional. Please don’t ever hesitate if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent problems after you’ve tried the simple fixes we mentioned or have difficulty in these fixes.
- Any strange burning smells coming from your unit.
- Water leaks or refrigerant leaks as these can be serious and require expert handling.
- Loud, unusual noises that just won’t go away, like grinding or squealing.
- Any issues with your gas furnace because dealing with gas requires specialized training, so for your safety, always call a pro.
- If anything about your HVAC system makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
At Mr. Good Guy Heating and Air, you can count on our experienced technicians to get the job done right. We’re not just quick; we’re also thorough and trustworthy. We pride ourselves on being your local experts, always ready to provide fast, reliable HVAC maintenance service that brings your comfort back. We understand these systems inside and out, which means we can quickly diagnose complex issues and provide lasting solutions.
Remember, Mr. Good Guy Heating and Air is always here for you, whether you need a quick repair or a full HVAC maintenance. Give us a call today at +(385) 208-7777 or visit our website at Mr. Good Guy HVAC to schedule an appointment.