Why Power is So Important in HVAC Repairs

HVAC systems are extremely important to your comfort, and they also help keep your home clean and free of contaminants. If something goes wrong with your system, you may find yourself with a big repair bill.

The best way to avoid these problems is to get annual maintenance done by a professional. This will ensure that your system is working well and will prevent any major issues.

Check the Frequency

If you’ve been calling for HVAC repairs over and over again, it might be time to replace your current system. Typically, HVAC systems last between 10 and 25 years before they stop working.

However, if you keep up with regular maintenance, you can extend the life of your system. This will help you save money over time.

Besides prolonging the lifespan of your heating and cooling system, regularly scheduled tune-ups also help improve air quality in your home. This is important for occupants who suffer from allergies or asthma.

Keeping your system clean can also reduce energy costs and increase its efficiency. Changing your filter regularly can prevent your system from clogging up debris and dust.

Check the Power

When it comes to HVAC repairs, one of the most important things you should check is power. It can be the cause of many problems, and it could also be the first step in diagnosing a larger issue.

A good way to check power is by using a multimeter. It’s very simple, and you can use it without any special tools!

The first place to check is at the disconnect box next to your unit. This is where you should test the power to be sure it’s off before servicing your system.

Once you’ve checked the disconnect, follow the power line inside of your AC unit to where it connects to the condenser/air handler. You should get 240 volts at this point, and if it’s not, the next thing you want to do is check the contactor.

Check the Thermostat

Your home’s heating and air conditioning system is controlled by your thermostat. A faulty thermostat can cause your furnace and AC to stop functioning properly.

To test your thermostat, you should remove the cover from it to expose the wiring. Then, you should turn off your furnace’s circuit breaker and unsnap the wires from their connectors.

If the light does not come on, this indicates that the thermostat is sending a signal to your furnace, but there’s a problem with it.

If you still have trouble, it’s time to call an HVAC professional. They will be able to diagnose the root of the issue and offer a technical solution.

Check the Air Filters

Air filters are an essential part of any home’s HVAC system, and they need to be changed regularly. Replacing them is inexpensive, easy to do, and can help ensure clean, healthy air throughout the house.

Filters are rated by MERV, which measures how effectively they filter small particles out of the air. Generally, a filter that has a MERV rating of 5 to 8 is enough to capture mold, pollen, and other contaminants without taking a toll on the efficiency of your HVAC system.

It is important to replace your air filter regularly because they get clogged up with dust and other particles. This makes your HVAC system work harder to circulate air, increasing energy costs and the risk of a breakdown.

Check the Motor

The motor is one of the most critical parts of your home’s HVAC system. Whether due to overheating or neglect, a malfunctioning motor can cause your entire system to stop working.

If you suspect your motor might be malfunctioning, there are several quick tests you can do to determine its condition. This includes examining its windings and capacitors.

Start by placing two test probes on the winding terminals of your electric motor with an ohmmeter. If the resistance starts low, it’s normal and should rise gradually. If the resistance stays shorted, it’s a sign of an open winding or a capacitor issue.