Lehigh Valley HVAC Troubleshooting Tips

It is spring again and there are many reasons to love this season. It means enjoying time with your family and friends outside. It’s the chance to wear your shorts, flip flops for adventure trips. It also signifies the end of polar vortex; and spring is also the time to check that your air conditioning system is functioning properly as temperatures will be above average. So, watch out for the heat!

But what are you going to do if your residential HVAC is not working properly or produces little cooling? Don’t panic if this happens. Instead, try the following HVAC troubleshooting tips and solve the problem.

Tip#1: Change your Thermostat Batteries

Basically, a thermostat allows users to control the temperature inside the home by controlling the functions of a cooling system. It comes in various kinds namely electromechanical, digital manual and digital programmable. Electromechanical thermostat is considered the oldest type while digital thermostats are quite popular nowadays.

Digital thermostats can be powered either with the power from the furnace or with batteries. If powered by batteries, it is recommended that you change or replace them especially if there is no power at the unit.

In order to prevent the thermostat from shutting down or from malfunctioning, it is best to change the batteries once a year.

Tip#2: Check the Programming/Setting of your HVAC System

If you’re using a digital programmable thermostat, make sure that you program it according to the temperatures you need and at what time of the day. The use of pre-programmed settings can definitely save energy costs.

But in case you’re doing it manually, ensure that the thermostat or main control switch is “on” and set to a temperature, which will turn the unit on. Check if the thermostat is in the “Cool” position and not set to “Off” or “Heat”.

Tip#3: Make Sure that the Breakers are On

Make sure that the breakers, as well as the disconnects, are all on. Likewise, ensure that the circuit breaker has not tripped. In case you found out that the breaker is tripped, try resetting it by shutting it off and then turning it back on. If the problem continues, check the wiring in the furnace for sign of damage and have it repaired immediately.

Tip#4: Examine the Air Filter

If you have noticed that your HVAC system does not keep you cool, a dirty filter may possibly caused it. A dirty filter slows down airflow; hence, change it regularly or every three months.

Having a clean filter is important. It will not only prevent dust and dirt from blocking or destroying the system but will also make the system operate efficiently.

Tip#5: Do Tune-Ups

Make sure your HVAC system is in shape to keep you cool this spring. One way to do that is to have a system tune-up. Inspect the following parts of your air conditioning system including the thermostat, electrical wiring, compressors, capacitors, air ducts, and the like.

It is highly advised that you conduct a yearly tune-up of your HVAC system to improve its efficiency and prevent unwanted problems and expenses. You may seek the assistance of a technician in performing an air conditioning tune-up. Usually, an expert inspects and clean the condenser, the outdoor disconnect, and the coolant levels and pressure.