Troubleshooting Tips
Common troubleshooting tips to help you diagnose your HVAC system problems.
When your heating or air conditioning system is not working properly, it can be frustrating. You want to avoid paying a lot for repairs, but you want your home to feel comfortable again. At Andy Lewis, we understand your frustration, and we want to save you time and money. Below, we’ve listed common HVAC issues and troubleshooting tips to help you diagnose your heating and cooling problems.
Of course, if these tips don’t help you get your unit working the way it’s supposed to, that’s when you know it’s time to call the AC repair experts at
Andy Lewis!
Check Your HVAC System Before Calling
Steam Coming From Outdoor Unit
Heat pumps have a regular defrost cycle that run occasionally to remove build-up of ice due to weather conditions. This ice build-up lowers the efficiency, so the heat pump takes care of this on its own. This cycle often causes heat pump owners, especially those who are new to this type of system, to think there is a problem because they see steam coming from the system and mistake it for smoke. The fan stops running during the defrost cycle as well, causing further confusion to the homeowner because the combination of steam and a stopped fan makes them think the fan motor has burned up. It also makes a louder than usual sound during the defrost cycle. All of this is completely normal and you have nothing to worry about.
The only action required on your part:
- Regularly check to see that no debris or ice is blocking the outdoor unit.
If for some reason your heat pump does not resume normal function in a few hours, then it may be necessary to call an HVAC professional at Andy Lewis Heating & Air Conditioning.
Outdoor Unit is Making Unusual or Loud Noises
Heat Pump Runs Constantly/Doesn't Shut Off
- Make sure your thermostat is set to heat or cool and that the temperature setting is above or below the room temperature.
- Check to see if the breaker is tripped.
- Listen for the outdoor unit. Is it running?
- Check the filters for dust or dirt build-up.
- Look for snow or ice build-up on the outdoor unit.
Outdoor Unit Won't Turn On
If the outdoor unit of your heat pump or air conditioner isn’t turning on, there could be a simple solution such as a faulty thermostat or a blown fuse. These are common problems with heating and cooling systems here in the greater Charlotte, NC area. Before calling your local heating and air conditioning contractor for help, make sure that everything else is working as it should.
Heat Pump Iced Up in Winter
Heat Pump/Air Conditioning Iced-Up in Summer
- Thermostat set too low
- Blocked filter
- Vents blocked or closed, including supply and return vents
- Windows open while AC is running
If none of these are the cause, call Andy Lewis Heating & Air Conditioning for help with your air conditioner/heat pump.
Air Conditioner Not Cooling
The most common summertime air conditioner problem is failure to cool. There are many possible causes for an air conditioner that isn’t properly cooling your home. The good news is that it may be a simple fix. We know there isn't much worse than being stuck in a home without air conditioning in the middle of a hot and humid Charlotte, NC summer.
Check the following things first:
- Check to see that the thermostat is set to “cool.”
- Make sure the thermostat is set to a temperature that is below room temperature.
- Check to see that the Power is on to the indoor unit.
- Look in your electrical box for a tripped circuit breaker (one that is flipped the opposite direction from the other breakers. If they are labeled, one should be designated to the HVAC system.)
- Flip it back the other way to the on position.
- If the above are all in place, the unit should be running. If not, look for a reset button (probably red) for the outdoor unit. Push the reset button.
Pilot Light Goes Out
Steps for lighting a furnace pilot light:
*If your furnace has instructions for lighting the pilot, follow those first.
- Turn off furnace, boiler, or water heater at thermostat or power switch.
- Locate the gas valve and turn knob from on or off (depending on where it was) to pilot position.
- Hold down red button, which sends gas to the pilot burner.
- At the same time, hold match to pilot burner. (Just follow the small pilot tubing to end.) Sometimes a long match is needed. You can use needle nose pliers to hold match.
- On some equipment you may need to move a small metal door or panel for access.
- Light the pilot but do not let go of button.
- Continue holding button for 60 seconds.
- Let go of button. Pilot should stay lit. (If not, you need to schedule service.)
- Turn gas valve knob back to the on position.
- Turn on appliance. Turn up thermostat. Main gas should light.
- Put back metal cover if your system had one.
Indoor Unit Leaking Water
Circuit Breaker Trips Repeatedly
Low Air Flow
Some Rooms are Warmer or Cooler Than Others
- Check or replace filters.
- Make sure all vents are fully open.
- Seal any drafty places like around windows and doors.
- Use sun and shade to your advantage by opening or closing curtains or blinds.
If none of this helps and rooms are still drastically different in temperature, call Andy Lewis Heating & Air Conditioning.
Inside Temperature Doesn't Match Thermostat
Thermostat Warning Light is On Or Flashing
Contact Us Today!
Click below to schedule an appointment with one of our 24/7 Technicians. Or call us today at 704-391-9191. We look forward to improving your comfort!
