HVAC Repair: The Perils of DIY Diagnosis

HVAC Repair Headaches? Know When to DIY and When to Call for Help

Will we never learn?

Sometimes, our independent spirit agrees with our general knowledge, permitting us to self-diagnose HVAC repair problems with too little information.

• It is tempting to diagnose our own illnesses, thinking we know enough about our bodies to figure out what might be wrong. But Sir William Osler, a renowned physician himself, is quoted as saying, “A doctor who treats himself has a fool for a patient.” We should collect information and take it to a doctor who can confirm or contradict our suspicions. Don’t delay!
• It is also tempting to diagnose automobile problems without adequate training. Our description of unusual sounds makes mechanics smile. It is best to collect information and take it to a trained mechanic who can confirm or contradict our suspicions. And remember, don’t delay.

The same principle holds true concerning diagnosing problems with residential heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC repair) systems. Homeowners listen to and experience the comfort levels of HVAC systems, but rarely do they have the expertise to diagnose or fix problems with these vital building systems.

There are a few vital HVAC repair tips that homeowners can and should do. That includes:

• Changing the air filter regularly—at least once every three months. When the filter collects enough dust to clog the filter, it restricts airflow and makes the system work harder. (Change it more often if needed.)
• Change the thermostat batteries annually. The thermostat is the sensor that turns the heating and cooling on and off. Changing the batteries annually makes sure the thermostat functions all year long.
• Clean the outdoor condenser unit. The condenser consists of a network of tubes and fins, responsible for cooling refrigerant gas. Like the air filter, the network can collect dust and grass clippings sufficiently to clog the airflow through the network. Use a garden hose (no power washers please) to gently wash the collection away.

Beyond these tasks, collect information that might be helpful to an HVAC repair technician.

1. Take a look at the flame on natural gas furnaces. It should be blue, not yellow. Yellow indicates incomplete combustion; much of the potential energy is lost when this happens.
2. Give a sniff. The HVAC system should move the indoor air, so it should smell like the house. If you are cooking something good, expect it to move that smell throughout the house. However, if it is moving a different smell like a nasty musty smell or an acrid smell of burnt plastic, this is a problem.
3. Whether whisper quiet or loud enough to notice, the sounds of the heating and cooling cycle should not change much. When the normal sounds become louder or new, unusual sounds develop—buzzing, grinding, or loud bumping—let a technician diagnose the problem.
4. If the amount of dust in the home increases suddenly and without another reason such as demolition/new construction, it should be information collected for the HVAC technician.
5. If the energy bill spikes, it can be significant information concerning the HVAC system. It may indicate that the local utility company has increased rates for natural gas or electricity. The more relevant information concerning the HVAC system is to determine whether the amount of energy used, either electricity or natural gas, is significantly higher in the given months from year to year. If the kWH of electricity or cubic meters of gas has not increased, it can be attributed to a higher rate. If the energy use has spiked, it can indicate a problem with the HVAC system.

We are approaching that odd time between the heating and cooling season. Some weeks, maybe some days, ahead will require both heating and cooling. This is the best time of the year to schedule an annual preventative maintenance visit, to clean and inspect the system before the need intensifies.

Don’t Self-Diagnose! Let AirPro Houston Help With All of Your HVAC Repair Needs

While homeowners can perform basic maintenance like changing filters and checking for obvious issues, they should gather detailed information about any unusual signs, such as strange smells, sounds, or increased energy usage, and consult the AirPro Houston HVAC repair technicians for accurate diagnosis and repair, especially during the transition between heating and cooling seasons.

With our four decades of experience as an HVAC repair contractor, AirPro Houston provides you with the skill and expertise to assist with your AC repair, AC maintenance, and AC installation questions.

We have several financing options available with great options. Up to 72-month terms with approved credit. Call us today at  281-880-8805 and let us partner with you for all of your HVAC repair needs.