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A/C Troubleshooting Tips

 

Sometimes what’s wrong with your air conditioning and heating system really doesn’t require the service of an expert repair person. Here are some common troubleshooting tips to go over before you call for a repair.

A/C Not Cooling or Blowing?

Check circuit breakers at fuse box. The outdoor condenser unit and indoor air handler unit have their own breaker. Even if breakers appear to be in the correct position, they are often tripped. Flip circuit breaker off and back on.

Indoor A/C Unit Leaking Water?

If the unit is leaking water one of three possible things has occurred

  1. Drain line is plugged. Check to see if your A/C drain line outside your home is draining properly. If it is not you can clear it by attaching a wet vacuum to the outside.
  2. Evaporator coil is dirty. Dirt, mold, and algae are growing on your coil causing it to drip>
  3. Coil is frozen with ice. Your A/C is probably low on freon. You will need to turn off the A/C and call for service.

A/C Fan Runs Continuously?

Make sure your thermostat is set to the “Auto” position.

A/C Runs,Won’t Cool Below 78 degrees

  1. Your A/C is possibly low on freon
  2. Your ductwork in the attic is leaking
  3. Your A/C is old and inefficient and can not keep up with the heat load
  4. Your air conditioner is under sized for the heat load demand

Are Some Rooms Warmer than Others?

In the warmer room, make sure the vent is open or open it further. If this does not resolve the problem, the situation is the result of one of the following three conditions.

  1. The ductwork was not sized properly
  2. The system needs to be balanced by adjusting the air flow dampers in the grills
  3. The ductwork has come apart and is leaking cool air into the attic.

Call for Service.

Thermostat Not Registering Correct Temperature?

A temperature reading of within three (3) degrees up or down is considered normal. New digital thermostats are more accurate.

Musty or Mildew Odor?

  1. Your ductwork got wet and is giving off a musty odor or it’s possibly growing mold.
  2. No filters were used and the ductwork is dirty and growing mold.
  3. No filters or wrong filters were used and evaporator coil is plugged up with algae, fungus, mold and bacteria.
  4. Drain pan is full of algae, fungus, mold and bacteria.

Call for service and schedule an extensive 21-point Breathe Green Tune-Up

When Do A/C Filters Need Cleaning?

A/C filters should be kept clean or replaced monthly.You should be using filters with a minimum MERV rating of 8 or higher. Please visit our section on Indoor Air Quality (IAQ).

Dirty Coil?

As dirt, debris, pollen and spores accumulates on your coil over time it will grow fungus, mold and bacteria. This build-up will restrict your air flow and cause you to have less cooling throughout your house and, at the same time, increase your electric bill. The bacteria and mold spores will circulate through your entire home and possibly affect your allergies and your health.The only way to fix this problem is to have the coil professionally cleaned.

Why Should I Choose a Programmable Thermostat?

Most programmable thermostats are capable of four different time and temperature settings. A programmable thermostat will reduce your power bill by fluctuating temperature settings while you are at work, away or asleep.We highly recommend this product.

Is a yearly Tune-Up necessary?

All A/C units should be maintained at least once per year.

HEATING

Burning Smell on Heat Mode?

Check the circuit breakers at fuse box. Please note that when using your heat for the first time in cool weather, you may smell a slight burning odor. Dust has accumulated over the months and is burning off the heating coils. This is normal and should last no more than 30 minutes.

No Heat Coming Out of the System?

Make sure the heating temperature is set above the room temperature. Check to make sure the thermostat is set to “Heat” and “Auto” position. Flip your circuit breaker off and back on. Some units can take 60 to 90 seconds before the heat cycle turns on. If you’ve allowed ample time and still no heat, turn your thermostat to the “OFF” position and call for service.

Heat From System is Not Warm Enough?

Make sure the temperature is set above the room temperature. As air circulates through the system, repeatedly, it will get warmer. If you have had your heat on for over 3 hours and it’s still not getting warm you need to call for service.

Heat Runs Continuously?

Make sure the thermostat is set to the “Auto” position. If the actual temperature is above the temperature set, call for service. If the actual temperature is below the temperature set, the heat will continue to run until it reaches the temperature for which it is set. If you find it hasn’t shut off after reaching the requested temperature, call for service.

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