How to Troubleshoot a Home HVAC System
Home ventilation and air conditioning units, or HVAC systems, are expensive to have repaired if they fail. HVAC experts need licenses to operate, thus they're highly trained and very expensive. Most HVAC issues are caused by poor maintenance practices, meaning you're often paying for a repair when your HVAC system is no more than a little dirty. Knowing the correct troubleshooting procedures allows you to rule out the possibility that you overlooked a simple HVAC repair, and it leaves the hard fixes to the professionals. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver
- Hose
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Instructions
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Check the breaker that powers the HVAC unit in the fuse box to make sure the breaker is turned to the "on" position if the unit if not working. Turn it on if it is flipped to the "off" position. Have the HVAC unit professionally serviced if the breaker flips to the "off" position as soon as it is turned on.
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Check the filters of the HVAC unit if the system is cycling on and off frequently, even if there is not a change of temperature in the room. Clogged filters may cause the motor to wear out prematurely. Pull out the filter and look at the side for the model number. Order new filters using this model number.
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Remove the drip tray from the bottom of the HVAC unit if you see leaks appearing. Pull out the drip tray after removing any screws that hold it in place, or after removing the clips. Inspect the drip tray for cracks that may be causing the leak. Contact your manufacturer for a replacement if needed.
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Inspect the outside condenser unit if your HVAC system is a split unit. Remove any dirt and debris from the outside of the metal container. Turn off the power and open the condenser unit by unscrewing the top and pulling up. Be careful not to damaged the fan as you lift up, since the fan is usually connected to the top. Inspect the coils of the condenser for leaves and dirt. Clean the coils with water from a hose.
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Inspect the thermostat. Replace the batteries if the display is not working. Set the temperature to lower than the room temperature if you're troubleshooting the cooling and higher than the room if you're troubleshooting heating. Have the thermostat inspected if it does not control the temperature properly.
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References
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