5 HVAC troubleshooting tips that every homeowner should know

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can help keep your home comfortable all year long. However, even the best system will have occasional issues that need to be addressed.

You don’t always need to call an HVAC contractor when your home’s heating and cooling system needs some work but you do need to make sure that your home’s HVAC system is running properly and safely. These five troubleshooting tips are must-know information, no matter how much experience you have with HVAC because they can help you identify the issues that could mean major problems down the road.

1) Clean Indoor Vents and ducts

One of the most important things you can do to keep your HVAC system running smoothly is to check your vents often. When you have too much moisture in your home, it will cause mold and mildew growth, which will lead to unhealthy living conditions. Occasionally, floor or ceiling vents can become obstructed, preventing proper airflow in your home.

If there are clogs or debris in your vents, it may be time for a professional cleaning. You also want to make sure that there aren’t any gaps where cold air can escape outside.

2) Check the Proper Function of the Thermostat

You must have to confirm the proper function of your AC thermostat. If it is not working correctly, it will not be able to properly regulate the temperature in your home. You should also check to make sure that the batteries are not dead. Replace them if they need to be replaced.

In some cases, you may just need to change the setting on your thermostat and clear out any debris around it before putting a new battery into place. Other times, you may need to replace the thermostat altogether.

3) Replace Your Filters

One of the most important things you can do to maintain your HVAC system is to occasionally replace your filters. Not only will this help improve air quality, but it will also keep your system running more efficiently.

You should replace the filter every one to three months depending on how often you use your unit. Filters that are clogged with dust or other particles won’t be able to perform their intended function and should be replaced as soon as possible. If you’ve noticed a significant change in the way your unit operates, it’s likely due to a dirty filter.

4) Check the circuit breakers and working power supply

If your HVAC unit isn’t working, there is time to check the circuit breakers and power supply. If the unit is receiving power, then the problem may be with the unit itself. If the circuit breaker for that unit trips or if a fuse blows when you’re flipping them on, that could mean that it’s not getting enough power.

If that happens, contact an electrician immediately. On the other hand, if all of the circuit breakers are functioning properly but you still don’t have power to your HVAC unit, call a professional right away.

5) Keep Debris away from the Outdoor Unit

Debris like leaves and grass can clog up your outdoor unit, preventing it from working properly. Make sure to clean the area around the unit at least once a year to avoid this problem. Building up debris can cause overheating of the Air conditioners as well as reduce efficiency by blocking airflow. Additionally, leaves and grass can often be laced with pesticides that can damage your indoor coil in a matter of months.

If you notice any ice build-up on your air conditioner, turn off the power immediately so that you don’t damage anything. You should also make sure that there is adequate drainage for rainwater around the outside of your unit. If there isn’t, try getting some gravel or wood chips in order to catch the water before it drains into your home’s foundation.