Are you currently experiencing a comfort problem or equipment breakdown? Start here to see if any of these most common places to look may be just the ticket to solve your problem
1. Check for power to the equipment:
In our area, the rampant number of power failures and power outages can wreak havoc on your equipment. Be sure to check that the breaker or fuses aren’t tripped into the off position. Also, check the service disconnects for the equipment. If the equipment was running during a power outage or power surge, this is a great place to start.
2. Check the thermostat:
Try switching the settings of the thermostat to see if this is the problem. First, adjust the temperature setting either much higher or much lower than the current setting, and see if that fixes the problem. Also, try switching the system from “Heat or Cool” to “Off,” and then back to “Heat or Cool.” If that doesn’t work, try setting the thermostat to “Fan On” instead of “Auto” and see if the fan works.
The last thing to try is replacing the batteries in the thermostat. Most programmable thermostats, particularly modern models, require batteries—typically two AAs. You should be able to remove the thermostat from the wall and replace the batteries.
3. Check the filtration system:
The No. 1 cause for emergency repairs is neglect and dirt / dust. Be sure that you have recently changed or cleaned your filtration system. This is a very cheap way to keep your equipment operating problem-free.
Check with the manufacturer to find out how often your particular filter should be cleaned or replaced. Typically, 1” disposable filters should be changed every 30 to 60 days. 5” media filters every 3 to 6 months, and electronic air cleaners every 1 to 3 months, depending on the environment.
4. Check the pilot:
Most modern furnaces no longer have standing pilots that need to remain lit. However, this does still occur. Be sure that the pilot is lit in the furnace or hot water heater by looking into the burner section.
NOTE: This can be dangerous in the presence of gas and flame. High winds can easily blow pilots out.
5. Do you see water?
First, you want to isolate the source of the water. Go to the equipment and find out where it’s leaking from. If you can isolate the source of the problem, you can stop the water leak. Turn off the piece of equipment that is causing the leak, either at the controller, switch, or breaker. If you’re seeing water at a boiler or hot water heater, shut off the water supply into the equipment. This should stop the leak until help arrives.