5 Easy HVAC Troubleshooting Tips for East AL Homeowners

Maintaining a functional HVAC system is crucial for East Alabama homeowners who want to enjoy comfortable temperatures in their homes all year round. But with their complex designs, HVAC systems can be prone to breakdowns. 

While some HVAC problems require professional skill, there’s some minor issues that can be easily fixed by homeowners. To help, we’ve outlined five easy troubleshooting tips you can try before calling for service.

#1 Thermostat Issues

Your HVAC system should turn off when your thermostat reaches the desired temperature. However, if it continues to run, your thermostat might be malfunctioning. Check the set point against the actual room temperature. If there's a noticeable difference, and the heating or cooling has been running for some time, you may need a new thermostat. 

Keep in mind that a typical thermostat lasts 10 years, and they can gradually deteriorate with age. If something seems off, have a trusted HVAC service professional check the thermostat to see if it needs replacement.

#2 Power Failures

If your HVAC system won't turn on, it might be due to a tripped circuit breaker, which is typically caused by a power surge. In this case, simply reset the breaker to restore power. Check the power cord for damage or fraying caused by rats or other pests. Additionally, check the power outlet by plugging in another device. If the outlet doesn't work, it's the source of the problem – not your HVAC system.

#3 Reduced AC Efficiency

If you’ve noticed higher energy bills or inconsistent cooling, it’s likely that your AC unit isn’t working efficiently. Your AC may stop working properly if it hasn’t been cleaned regularly. Just like any other piece of equipment, AC units can become dirty. 

This is especially true for outdoor units, where dirt, leaves and twigs can accumulate over time. You can clean your AC unit by removing debris and gently spraying the coils with a water hose, rinsing off any stubborn dirt. Just be sure to turn off your unit before attempting to clean it.

#4 Hot and Cold Spots

 If you’ve noticed that your home has hot and cold spots, you might be able to fix the problem by checking your vents and registers. If your vents and registers are closed or obstructed by furniture, airflow can become restricted.

If air isn’t allowed to circulate properly, it can cause hot and cold spots to form. Checking to make sure your vents and registers are open (even in unused rooms) may restore proper airflow and eliminate the cold spots. If this doesn’t work, you may have to contact a technician to get to the root of the problem. 

#5 Short Cycling

Another unintended consequence of restricted air flow is short cycling. When airflow isn’t allowed to flow freely, it can force your unit to work harder than it should. This strain can cause the heat exchanger to overheat and shut down prematurely. Once it cools, the system kicks back on, which leads to short cycling. 

Two common causes of restricted airflow include blocked vents and clogged air filters. Ensuring your vents and registers are open can restore airflow and potentially fix short cycling. IF you don’t see any improvement, you can also try replacing your filters.

Over time, filters can be clogged with dirt and debris, which limits airflow and leads to short cycling. Replacing your filters regularly may help remedy the problem. 

However, if short cycling hasn't been resolved, it’s likely that faulty electrical connections and frozen evaporator coils are responsible. In this case, you should contact a licensed HVAC technician who is equipped to handle more complex issues.

Need Professional HVAC Services? Call C&G Today!

Need reliable HVAC services? The expert technicians at C&G Heating & Air Conditioning are here to help! Based in Smiths Station, we proudly serve communities along the Alabama-Georgia border, including Phenix City, Auburn, Opelika and Columbus.

Our team provides fast, dependable service and is always ready to answer your questions about your system. For more information about our residential HVAC services, give us a call at 334-489-3329. To learn more about other services, including commercial HVAC and ductwork, visit our website by clicking the link here.