When people hear HVAC repairs, they usually think of a highly specialized job that they can’t do on their own. While a number of problems with your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system should be fixed only by a licensed technician, there are simple troubleshooting tasks that can do on your own. You’re not only saving money but also getting more familiar with your own HVAC system.
1) Checking the power supply
We get a lot of emergency calls from customers who freak out over an air conditioner that won’t turn on. Many homeowners forget to do one basic step -- check the power supply. So if your AC or heater isn’t running, check the power supply first before calling an HVAC repairman. Check if other appliances are working. See if there’s a power outage in your community. If only the AC isn’t working, check to see whether it’s plugged into a power outlet or whether it’s turned on at all.
2) Replacing the filter
Old air conditioning filters get dirty at some point, and all that trapped muck affects the performance of your air conditioner. Your machine works harder, and your home no longer feels as cool as it used to be. Old and dirty AC filters reduce indoor air quality and increase your electric bill. You may call an HVAC technician on Maui to clean or replace the filter, or you can do the HVAC repairs yourself. The good thing about your AC filter is you can access it by unscrewing the panel. Remove the old filter, and replace it with a new one.
3) Setting the thermostat
If your room is either too warm or too cold, check your thermostat. The temperature setting must have been wrong. You will have to reset the thermostat to your desired temperature. However, if the temperature setting is right, and your room still feels a little too warm, check the batteries of your thermostat. They may need to be replaced. Also, see if your unit is on lockout mode.
4) Condensate pump troubleshooting
If there’s water leaking near or around your air conditioning unit, your condensate pump could be the culprit. The condensate pump pumps water into the drain line, but sometimes it can fail. If it fails, it can send a signal to your unit to stop working. In this case, inspect the drain pan and drain line. Clean the drain pan, and unclog the drain line. Try tapping the main float. Also, examine the safety switch to make sure the wires are attached properly.
In most instances when your HVAC system malfunctions or fails altogether, it’s best to call a professional HVAC repairs service. Pacific Air Conditioning fixes all HVAC problems on Maui. Call us at 808-244-0161.