HVAC Tips

Filter Replacement
Before you call for service be sure to check your filter. It is not uncommon for the filters to become heavily clogged, particularly if you are in an area of new construction. Clogged filters can cause condensation difficulties and lack of air flow. If your system is blowing warm air during air conditioning season, it is an indication that your filter needs to be changed. We recommend that your filter be replaced (or cleaned) monthly to prevent damage to your HVAC system. Remember that changing and or cleaning your filters is a homeowner responsibility and is not covered under warranty.

Breakers
One of the most common reasons that your air conditioning system may not work is due to your electrical breakers. During the summer months, electrical storms are frequent and sometimes cause the electrical breakers to trip (even partially). Just to be certain that your breakers are not the problem, turn off your breaker, wait just a few seconds, and then flip it back on. You may be pleasantly surprised to find that this simple precaution may get your air conditioning system up and running in a snap. You’ll avoid costly trip charges too, as this homeowner check is not covered under warranty.

Disconnects
If you are a new homeowner, many times the disconnect by your outside unit may be turned off or become unplugged. This often happens in areas of new construction due to job conditions as your home moves towards settlement. The disconnect is located in a small panel box which opens from the bottom near your outside unit. The electrician usually mounts the box on the wall of your house. Make sure that the disconnect is fully plugged in and turned on the “ON” position.

Furnace Doors
Make sure that the door to your furnace or air handler is properly mounted and is on tight so that the safety switch is activated. If your furnace door is not secure, your unit may fail to function properly.

Electrical Switch on Furnace
On some models, there is an electrical switch on or beside the furnace. Be sure that the switch is on the “ON” position.

Spring Test Run
Avoid the rush and check out your air conditioner before you actually need it! Once the outside temperature is above 65 degrees, set your thermostat to the “COOL” position and move your temperature gauge lower than the temperature in the house. Make sure your air conditioning is working properly before the first heat wave gets here – you’ll be glad you did!

Air Flow
Some houses have dampers installed. You can adjust the dampers to control the air flow throughout your house. You can also adjust registers to provide more or less air flow to a particular room. We highly recommend that you set your thermostat to run the fan on the “ON” position at all times. This will move and distribute the air flow throughout the entire house and help to maintain a consistant temperature at all times.