Simple Things to Try Before Calling Lyons Air & Heat
Air conditioning and heating systems have a number of different components and complicated parts, so when they stop working like they used to, it can be hard to pinpoint the problem. Luckily, there are a lot of different troubleshooting tips that can help homeowners solve minor HVAC issues on their own.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through our detailed HVAC equipment checklist. Our goal is to provide you with actionable insights that enable you to take charge of your HVAC system’s well-being. However, if this DIY HVAC troubleshooting guide doesn’t help solve the problem, the trusted HVAC professionals at Lyons Air & Heat can.
If your HVAC system isn’t working properly, call the Rockwall heating and air conditioning experts at Lyons today. Our certified technicians work hard to provide effective HVAC interventions to help the residents of Rockwall, TX, and the greater Dallas area experience indoor comfort, no matter the season.
Call us at (214) 432-2859 or contact us online to schedule repairs with us or to learn more about our services.
Things to Try Before Calling Lyons Air & Heat
If you have any trouble with your HVAC system, you can always call on Lyons Air & Heat for professional and prompt heating repair and air conditioning repairs. However, before you pick up the phone, there are a couple of steps you can take to ensure any minor issues are solved before our technicians make the trip out to your place.
Use the checklists below to troubleshoot any problems with your heater or air conditioner. If at any point you run into any issues, contact an HVAC professional who can help provide you with expert interventions to get your system back up and running.
Air Conditioning Equipment Checklist
If you’re experiencing problems with your air conditioning unit, use the following checklist and troubleshoot any problems you detect. If problems persist, schedule professional Rockwall air conditioning services from Lyons as soon as possible to get your system back up and running.
Thermostat Check
Ensure your thermostat is set to ‘cool’ mode and set the temperature to something lower than the room temperature. If the system does not respond to these thermostat settings by kicking the AC on, replace the batteries and double-check the programming. This can help you troubleshoot any thermostat issues.
Inspect Outdoor Unit
Examine the outdoor unit for debris such as leaves or branches and clean the area around the unit to promote proper airflow. Additionally, inspect the condenser coils for any visible damage or blockages that may hinder the cooling process.
After checking all of that, ensure that your outdoor air conditioning unit is running. Check the circuit breakers in the circuit breaker box and make sure they are all in the ‘ON’ position. Check the outdoor unit “disconnect switch” to make sure it is also in the ‘ON’ position. The disconnect switch is located near the outdoor unit (normally a grey 8″ wide x 16″ high x 4″ deep box mounted to the wall).
Once it’s on, check to see if the fan blades are spinning and drawing air into the condenser. If not, you may have a problem with the condenser fan motor.
Blower Motor and Fan
Ensure that the blower motor in your indoor unit is running (if the thermostat is in the “cool” position, the blower motor should be running). If not, check to make sure the on/off switch on the unit is in the “ON” position. Listen for any abnormal noises from the blower motor and inspect the fan belt for any signs of wear or damage. Lubricate the motor if necessary, and check for loose or bent fan blades.
Check Air Filters
Regularly inspect and replace air filters to maintain optimal airflow and ensure the system doesn’t overwork. You should replace your air filters every month to ensure optimal airflow. Additionally, a dirty air filter can lower your home’s indoor air quality and decrease the overall efficiency of your HVAC system.
Circuit Breaker and Power Supply
Verify that the circuit breaker for your HVAC system is not tripped. If it is, reset it and check the power supply to the unit. Ensure there are no loose connections and make sure the electrical components are functioning correctly to avoid disruptions in cooling.
Air Vents
Examine all vents in your home to guarantee unobstructed airflow from your AC unit. Clear any obstructions, such as furniture, drapes, or dust buildup, that might hinder the distribution of cooled air. Properly balanced air vents contribute to consistent and efficient cooling throughout your space.
Condensate Drain
Regularly check the condensate drain to ensure it’s clear of any blockages. A clogged drain can lead to water damage and reduced efficiency, so keeping it clean helps prevent potential issues and ensures proper drainage of condensed water from your HVAC system. If your drain pan is full of water, you may have a clogged drain line or a larger leak somewhere in the system.
Refrigerant Levels
Monitor the refrigerant levels to maintain optimal cooling performance. Low refrigerant can result in decreased efficiency and potential damage to the compressor. If you suspect a refrigerant leak or insufficient levels, it’s crucial to consult a professional HVAC technician for proper inspection and recharge
Coils and Fins
Inspect the evaporator coil and condenser coil for dirt and debris, as well as bent fins. Clean the coils gently to ensure efficient heat exchange and straighten any bent fins with a fin comb for optimal airflow. Maintaining these components enhances overall system performance.
Check Return Air Supply
Evaluate the return air grilles for obstructions and ensure that it’s free from any blockages. A clear return air pathway is vital for proper circulation and cooling. Also, check supply air registers to make sure they are open and blowing air.
Air supply restrictions can lead to insufficient cooling, so be sure to address any restrictions before calling a professional technician. This may help solve the issue without forcing you to waste money on unnecessary HVAC services.
Heating Equipment Checklist
When your heating system is on the fritz, use the following troubleshooting tips to help resolve minor issues within your heater. If your problems persist, schedule heating services with Lyons Air & Heat. We’ll work to restore warm air in your home as soon as possible.
Thermostat Check
Verify that your thermostat is set to the ‘heating’ mode and make sure that the temperature setting on the thermostat is set above the indoor temperature showing on the thermostat. Replace batteries if needed and double-check to ensure the thermostat accurately reflects the indoor temperature.
Power Supply Check
Examine the power supply to your heating equipment, ensuring the furnace circuit breaker is not tripped. Reset the breaker if necessary and inspect for any loose connections. Check the SSU switch (it looks like a light switch on a gray box located at the furnace) to be sure it is in the ‘ON’ position.
You can check to see if there is power to the furnace by turning the fan to ‘ON’ using the fan switch on the thermostat.
Check Air Filters
Regularly inspect and replace any dirty air filters in your heating system to let heated air flow throughout your home. If you have a furnace, you should replace all 1-inch filters each month. Any 2-inch thick and higher capacity pleated filters can be changed once every other month.
Clean filters contribute to better air quality and prevent your heating system from overworking, ensuring efficient and consistent warmth throughout your space.
Air Vents and Returns
Ensure all air vents and returns are unobstructed and clear air vents of dust and debris. Blockages can prevent hot air from being distributed throughout your space.
Pilot Light and Ignition System
Regularly check the pilot light or ignition system for your heating equipment. If your pilot light is not lit, read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to relight it. It may take a second or two for your flame sensor to detect enough heat to keep your gas valve open.
If you encounter any issues relighting the pilot light, it’s advisable to consult a professional technician for inspection and maintenance.
Blower Motor and Fan
Inspect the blower motor and fan for wear or damage. Lubricate the motor if necessary and check for loose or bent fan blades. Adequate airflow is essential for efficient heating, so ensure the fan is functioning optimally to distribute warm air effectively throughout your home.
Ductwork Inspection
Another common culprit of heating issues is a leaky air duct. Regularly inspect your ducts for leaks, gaps, or any signs of damaged ductwork. Well-maintained air ducts are crucial for efficient heating, ensuring that warm air reaches all areas of your home without unnecessary heat loss.
Inspect Exhaust Flues
Thoroughly examine exhaust flues for your heating equipment to ensure proper ventilation. Clear any obstructions and check for signs of wear or damage. A well-maintained exhaust system is essential for the safe and effective removal of combustion byproducts from your heating unit.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Regularly test and ensure the functionality of carbon monoxide detectors in your home and replace any dead batteries, if needed. These devices play a critical role in detecting any potential leaks, providing an extra layer of safety when using heating equipment that utilizes combustion.
Check Return Air Supply
Evaluate the return air supply for obstructions and ensure it’s free from any blockages. A clear return air pathway is vital for proper circulation and heating efficiency. Addressing any restrictions in the return air supply helps maintain balanced airflow and optimal operation of your HVAC system.
Ensure Your System is Well-Maintained With the Lyons Regular Maintenance Plan
If you want to ensure your HVAC system is prepared to beat the heat or handle the cold each year, schedule yearly HVAC maintenance with Lyons Heat & Air. We’ll go through our exhaustive maintenance checklist twice a year to inspect your system and provide AC tune-ups or heating tune-ups.
Preventative maintenance ensures any issues are detected before they escalate, saving you money on costly repairs. Our HVAC technicians are trained to handle a variety of HVAC systems, ensuring we can locate and solve issues, no matter what make or model you have.
Need Help Troubleshooting Your HVAC System? Call the Rockwall HVAC Experts at Lyons Air & Heat Today
If these handy checklists do not solve your problem, your friendly neighborhood HVAC professionals at Lyons Air & Heat are just one call away. Our team understands the unique needs of both heating and cooling systems and can provide specialized insights and repairs to ensure you and your family are comfortable all year round.
Whether you’re dealing with thermostat issues, power supply disruptions, or concerns about air vents and returns, our experts have the knowledge and experience to diagnose and resolve the problem as quickly as possible. Call us at (214) 432-2859 or contact us online to schedule repairs or maintenance with our Rockwall HVAC professionals today!
