After a few stops and starts, it seems that spring is finally here! It’s about that time when you might want to start thinking about switching from using your furnace to the air conditioning system. Spring can be a tricky time because temperatures are fluctuating from warm to cool, and sometimes it gets as cold as the winter temperatures we saw this season!
After sitting dormant all winter long, your air conditioning unit may have issues starting back up again. Before you call for service, here are some tips to troubleshoot your system.
System check
Set your thermostat to the cool position and to a temperature cooler than the current indoor temperature. With your thermostat set like this, your blower motor in your furnace should be running and cool air should be coming through your registers. Sounds like a no-brainer, I know, but it’s a good idea to double-check.
You can also check outside to make sure that your outdoor air conditioning unit is running. Check the circuit breakers in the breaker box or outdoor electrical panel to see if all switches are on. Also, make sure the outdoor unit “disconnect switch” is in the “ON” position. This is a safety switch that shuts off the electricity to your unit, so a technician can safely work on your system.
You should regularly replace your air filter, so double check to see if your filter has been changed recently. A clogged air filter won’t allow your unit to run efficiently and effectively. You may want to check your return air grille to see if it has a filter also. Filters in multiple locations may be detrimental to your system. Your technician can advise you on whether to have a filter in the return or at the furnace.
Double-check your home’s ducting
If you’ve finished troubleshooting your HVAC system and are still having issues, it’s a good idea to check your ductwork. Proper ventilation allows the air to flow smoothly throughout the home and ensures the system is running efficiently and doing its job.
Change the fan setting in your thermostat to “on,” which will cause the fan to run continuously. If your fan is switched to “on” and no air is being delivered, you may have ductwork that has fallen or disconnected. If the fan is running and seems to be working, remember to switch it back to the “auto” position so it will distribute air only when the AC or heating is called for.
If you have followed these tips for troubleshooting your HVAC system it’s still not functioning properly, it’s time to give your trusted HVAC company a call. Troubleshooting on your own is a great way to find simple solutions and it can help your technician focus on more serious issues.
For more spring tips, check out our spring cleaning checklist for your HVAC system, and read our column in the Nevada Appeal.
