Home AC Preventive Maintenance Checklist List

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Are you looking to hire an HVAC service company to do preventative maintenance on your AC?

austin ac hvac maintenance

Today, we’re going to take the mystery out the HVAC preventative maintenance once and for all. HVAC preventative maintenance is necessary to the performance and longevity of every HVAC system. When an HVAC system fails, it does more than cost a lot of money to repair, it also can endanger your family’s lives. You could be saving money and improving the air quality cooling/heating value to your residential or commercial locations, if you’re not then you should read this.

You rarely see your HVAC system, so unless it breaks down or you need to change the filter, it’s easy to forget or neglect it. You may want to shrug off these tasks, but it’s more important than you think. Regular preventative HVAC maintenance ensures you can remain comfortable in your home or business environment during the ever-changing Texas seasons.

You should consider that some benefits of regular HVAC preventative maintenance are immediate while others prevent future problems from developing. Regular service of your HVAC is important for several reasons. Regular HVAC maintenance can be helpful in reducing the risk of costly breakdowns, identifying any worn or broken parts, reducing those high energy bills, extending the life of the system, improving the air quality, improving comfort, and helping to ensure that your HVAC system runs at close to its peak efficiency. Another benefit that safeguards you and your family of regular HVAC maintenance, is the possibility of being exposed to a toxic chemical called carbon monoxide or having an electrical short, which may even cause a fire.

The better you maintain your HVAC system, the more likely you’re going to get the appropriate lifecycle from the equipment.  If not, it will then deteriorate faster costing you more in repairs to fix it. It is recommended, you should have preventative maintenance completed twice annually. It’s smart to schedule your HVAC preventative maintenance visits in the spring and fall before the peak of the air conditioning and heating seasons. However, for larger office buildings, you may choose an HVAC quarterly maintenance checklist and this option works best when you need more frequent service for changing filters and cleaning coils.

While every system is unique, one factor remains the same that all HVAC systems require HVAC preventative maintenance, but it varies based on the types of equipment running the system. The fact is a thorough tune-up requires skills, tools and knowledge that only experienced HVAC technicians can deliver. This is why, here at Elite Heating and Air Conditioning, our technicians will be able to help you understand the best maintenance plan needed for your HVAC system.

Let’s take a glance below at Elite Heating and Air Conditioning’s HVAC preventative maintenance checklist. We can help you prolong the life and increase the efficiency of your HVAC system. Our experienced technicians follow this simple Cooling and Heating 33 Point Diagnostic Checklist during your biannual Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter scheduled inspections:

  • Clean and Adjust Thermostat
  • Clean and/or Inspect Filter
  • Inspect Indoor Coil Cleanliness
  • Inspect Blower Wheel Cleanliness
  • Inspect Wiring Low & High Voltage
  • Check Blower AMP Draw
  • Check Blower Capacitor
  • Check Drains & Drain Pans
  • Check Float Switches
  • Clean Flame Sensor
  • Check Gas Pressure
  • Check Heat Exchanger
  • Inspect Combustion Air and Fan Amps
  • Check All Safety Switches
  • Check Electric Heat Strips
  • Check All Electrical Components
  • Check Total Amps Heat
  • Check Temperature Rise Heat
  • Check Breaker Size Heat
  • Visually Inspect Duct Work
  • Outside Unit Level on Pad
  • Coil Clean, Free of Debris
  • Check Disconnect/Breaker
  • Line Set Insulated & Sealed
  • Inspect Electrical Components
  • Check for Signs of Ants
  • Check Motor AMP Draw
  • Check Motor Capacitor
  • Check Compressor AMP draw
  • Check Freon Level
  • Check Super Heat and Subcooling
  • Check Delta T Return & Supply

Elite Heating and Air Conditioning performs these biannual HVAC preventative maintenance checklist tasks to prepare your air conditioning system for the grueling Austin heating and cooling seasons each year.

So, depending on the age and condition of your HVAC equipment, the location and usage of equipment, and the size and type of equipment you have, more tasks or different ones may be needed to be performed on the different systems such as a water-cooled system, heat pump, or VRF system.  As a homeowner, you should take this as your opportunity to ask questions, if you have been experiencing poor performance, high energy bills, temperature variance, and/or humidity issues, these are just some of issues that will need to be addressed with your Elite Heating and Air Conditioning technician.

Our experienced HVAC technicians possess a level of expertise and attention to detail that has saved many of our clients from costly downtime and emergency repairs by identifying issues and resolving them before they become major problems. You can expect our qualified and licensed HVAC technicians and Trane Comfort Specialists to give you the most up to date information on how to keep your system in optimum working order and to offer you the option of our preventative maintenance plan.

If you want to reduce the number of repairs, you should keep on top of your biannual maintenance. Now that you know what must be done! Clearly, an annual HVAC system maintenance is something you should take very seriously. If your goal is to save money, protect your family, improve efficiency and prevent a mid-season breakdown, then a preventative maintenance plan can help you accomplish your goals.

Contact Elite Heating and Air conditioning today to work with a company that’s dedicated to ensuring your complete satisfaction. Call us today at (512) 637-4237.

What Does A HVAC Contractor Do?

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Building a new home?

Selling an existing home?

Repairing broken equipment?

Need an upgrade to your cooling or heating system?

austin, tx hvac contractor

We rely on cooling and heating companies to keep our homes comfortable even during the hottest dog days of summer to the bitter cold ice storms of winter with Texas temperatures. HVAC contractors assure we stay comfortable all year long. But do you really know, what HVAC contractors do in Austin, TX and the surrounding areas?

Well, HVAC is an abbreviation for “Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning.” Elite Heating and Air Conditioning HVAC contractors are professional skilled technicians, who specializes in the installation and maintenance of furnaces, boilers, heat pumps and central air conditioners. The main part of their job is identifying any maintenance risks that is happening on the current installed equipment. Then diagnosing any electrical and mechanical faults in the HVAC system. Plus, cleaning, testing, adjusting and repairing systems, and performing warranty services.

In addition, HVAC contractors typically help consumers decide which equipment to purchase for heating, cooling, and air quality in residential homes and businesses. As you can see, the job of an HVAC technician is quite complicated and can vary significantly from one home or business to the next. An experienced HVAC contractor will have the skills and training necessary to assess what needs to be done in an emergency and to perform the steps required for each job.

Some of the services you can expect to see with Elite Heating and Air Conditioning HVAC contractors:

Our HVAC technicians complete continuing education from cooling and heating manufacturers- HVAC contractors regularly stay up to date with their continuing education with the different manufacturers to learn about new products on the market. Also, HVAC contractors with Elite Heating and Air Conditioning (a certified Trane heating and air conditioning products dealer) must meet Trane’s standards, which means our HVAC contractors have met Trane’s stringent standards for installation, service, customer satisfaction and employee training. We do this so we’ll be better able to meet your AC needs.

Answer any customer service questions-Our qualified technicians are of assistance to you by answering your questions. We will help you figure out your HVAC system needs and can offer advice on how to keep the system running smoothly in your home or office.

Check local HVAC Code Regulations-They can determine whether your HVAC system is in good shape and up to code.  HVAC technicians must follow government regulations and local HVAC codes regarding the handling, conservation, recovery, recycling, and disposal of refrigerants and other fluids. So, if you’re buying a home, make sure to call on Elite Heating and Air Conditioning to inspect your property.

Install wiring-Whether it is an old or new home or business, HVAC contractors can help you or construction companies with their projects. HVAC contractors consults, designs, studies blueprints, testing of equipment, and installs or replaced the wiring that is needed for your home or business heating and cooling system.

Ductwork-An HVAC technician may complete the assembly and installation of the ductwork that distributes the heated or cooled air from the HVAC system. This can include cutting the sheet metal to form the ducts, attaching the ducts to the HVAC unit, and mounting the ductwork to the structure. It may also include the installation of registers where the ductwork connects to individual spaces.

Reset HVAC equipment, maintenance, repair-From time to time, it is necessary for systems to be reset or equipment needs to be calibrated. To ensure efficiency, heating, ventilation, and cooling systems, they must undergo regular maintenance checks; normally twice yearly, at the beginning of spring and at the beginning of autumn. These checks, include testing and cleaning the blower fan, checking the level of coolant in the cooling system, and testing the system’s thermostat and operation. HVAC contractor deal with problems or issues concerning the HVAC unit itself, thermostats and other controls, the air handling system, compressors, and refrigerant levels.

What should you consumers know about choosing an HVAC contractor?

No matter what your reason, choosing a new furnace or central A/C can be an intimidating process for anyone. These products are more complicated than any home improvement project because they require handling high-voltage electricity, plumbing, gas lines, and may vent combustible gases or refrigerants. This intricacy requires the help of a fully qualified and licensed HVAC contractor.

  1. Make sure you are quoted a good price

Estimate or dollar amount should be broken down with the different charges that the contractor expects to encounter. AC cost? Labor? Ductwork recommended and how much?

  1. Do your own research on the HVAC market and products.

You will want the equipment you purchase to be the correct one for your home or business that is more energy efficient. There are about 100 different brands, and thousands of different models on the market today to choose from. There are models that fit into your budget, fully featured running models or highly efficient running models.

Therefore, it is important to contact your trusted cooling and heating company for your installation, maintenance and repair of the ventilation; air conditioning systems or equipment needs. When you work with Elite, you can have peace of mind. We stand behind the quality of our products and services and provide a 10-year parts and 2-year labor warranty. Elite Heating and Air Conditioning is a company you can trust to get the job done right.

Elite HVAC contractors have three goals to maintain for their customers:

  1. To Prevent Current Problems or Future Problems
  2. To Help You Save Money and Be Energy-Efficient
  3. Stay Comfortable in the Home or Office.

Our technicians are waiting for to help you with all your heating and air conditioning needs.

Call us now a list of our complete HVAC contractor services, (512) 637-4237. Customer service representatives are waiting to answer your HVAC questions and set up your appointment.

When Is It Best To Replace Your Home AC?

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Air conditioners units or HVAC systems are not built to last forever. Maybe your old AC unit has quit working or you need a new energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly system. According to the National Association of Home Builders, you should consider replacing your AC system every 10-15 years. But figuring out whether you should repair or replace your air conditioner can be a difficult decision. Although a new air conditioner can be a big investment, so can the costs of continuing to repair and operate an old or inefficient AC unit. 

austin, tx home ac replacment

So, if your wondering if you should repair or replace your AC unit? This answer depends on…

The age of your unit

-Well this is easy, if your air conditioner is over 10-15 years old, then it might be better to replace it. If your system was well-maintained it will last about 15 years. Older A/C units lose efficiency as they age and break down. Newer air conditioning systems are all manufactured to comply with HVAC regulations and are designed to be much more energy-efficient, and far more eco-friendly because they release fewer carbon emissions. Installing a new air conditioning system, you will notice a significant improvement in your home’s indoor air quality. 

Bonus…A newer air conditioning system will also increase the resale value of your home. 

The cost of repairs increasing:

-However, if you’re in need of expensive repairs and your HVAC is more than 10 years old, it will often make more sense to replace it. Other signs costs are increasing is the amount of money you are paying for AC repairs, and the frequency with which you have to have the system repaired. If your utility bills are increasing and there is not a change in the way you are using it, this is a good indication that your system is no longer as efficient as it should be and should be replaced. 

Your AC has frequent breakdowns, noisy, dust:

-Instead of shelling out money for every little repair, it may be more cost effective to simply replace the air conditioner. These repair costs can really add up, and it doesn’t make sense to keep making them on the older units. If you notice a constant presence of excess dust in your home or office, even after cleaning, this is a good sign there may be problems with the ductwork or a leak. Leaks will compromise the efficiency of your AC system. If your AC is noisy, there could be a problem with the size of your unit compared to the size of the home. When strange noises come from unexpected sources, it should often be taken seriously and should be replaced. 

Noticing high energy bills:

-Have you noticed that your energy bills keep rising, but your utility company did not raise the rates. This happens when an air system consumes too much energy, the problem is usually because of failing mechanisms that struggle to perform the same basic functions that they once did effortlessly. They end up consuming more power to cool your home, which raises your monthly utility bill. A new air conditioner unit may end up eliminating the constant repair costs, lowering your utility bills, and increasing the resale value of your home. However, high energy bills could mean, your house or office is poorly insulated and this puts a strain on your HVAC system. 

Bonus….Home buyers are willing to pay more for a home with an updated and more efficient cooling system.

Problems with the AC regulating humidity or keeping all rooms cool:

-Air conditioners are built to cool and dehumidify your home’s inside air. Perhaps, you live in climates where temperatures rise higher than 75 degrees, from March to October. Well, hotter climates face greater demands on the HVAC system. You are liable to run into performance issues sooner. So, if your home feels humid during this time it could point to a faulty A/C, which may need replacing. When it functions, the system will maintain consistent temperatures throughout the house. If your A/C system seems less powerful than it did the previous year, it may be your AC system could be losing its power. Therefore, a sign of an aging air conditioner or even an incorrectly sized AC system in your home or office. 

Recently changed the size of your home, remodeling, or adding a room:

-AC systems are designed according to the interior dimensions of a given house. So, when you change the dimensional requirements of your home or office, you should contact one of our technicians at Elite Heating and Air Conditioning to help you in determining the amount of air the system will need to move to adequately and equally cool each room. Your AC unit will last longer, if you maintain it monthly and do your bi-annual AC maintenance checkup. Preventative maintenance helps to ensure your system works efficiently. So, the best way to avoid costly, expensive, and time-consuming repairs is by scheduling your regular maintenance checks on all residential and commercial heating and air conditioning equipment with Elite Heating and Air Conditioning. 

Ask yourself, if it is worth your while to spend the money on repairs? 

Don’t panic at the prospect of having to come up with a lot of money upfront! We offer financing with convenient monthly payments to fit your budget.

At Elite Heating and Air Conditioning, we will find ways for you to increase energy efficiency and reduce your business or office’s energy bills. We offer a full range of Trane air conditioning products and services, outstanding service and repairs done quickly and efficiently, knowledgeable and skilled replacement advice from our highly trained technicians, and quality new installations for your home or business.

If you have any questions about when to replace your air conditioner, or if you’d like a cooling system serviced or installed in your home, contact Elite Heating and Air Conditioning.

Schedule your repair or get a replacement quote by calling (512) 637-4237 now.

AC Repair: A Guide To Your AC Repair

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Austin, TX home AC repair

Did you realize your AC unit requires regular HVAC repair and maintenance? When your air conditioner stops cooling your house properly, it’s often an unexpected, out-of-pocket expense and no fun for homeowners to deal with. All year long, Texas weather can be relentless on your HVAC system. Keeping your air conditioner maintained, you will not only save money on energy, but you will also extend the lifespan of your HVAC system. 

It’s important to know that you have an AC system you can depend on. 

So, first……before calling a technician, you will want to start with the following troubleshooting tips (in no particular order):

  • Checking The Thermostat – It could be one of your family members, which may have changed the setting on your thermostat.
  • Try Turning on the AC’s Fan – If it starts the blower is getting power, so it could be a problem with the thermostat or bigger issue with the AC unit. If it does not start, there may be an issue with the blower.
  • Checking The Power – Sometimes it may be a tripped circuit or blown fuse. Reset connection or change fuse. 
  • Checking The Filter – If your air filter is dirty or clogged, this could cause your AC unit to malfunction and may need to be professionally unclogged. 

If none of the options above work, then one of Elite’s Heating and Air Conditioning trained technicians will be able to diagnose the problem and fix your air conditioner. 

Here are some other common reasons for calling an Elite licensed technician for AC repairs: 

Refrigerant Issues: Refrigerant is a common AC repair problem. The gas in the air conditioning system is sometimes referred to as Freon, which is a generic term for the class of AC refrigerants or coolants typically used. This is essential for cooling the air that blows out of your air conditioner. 

  • Low Refrigerant – At times, this may need to be replaced or topped off, which your HVAC professional will supply during the service call.
  • Refrigerant Leak – You may have a leak if you hear strange noises, notice your AC’s cooling output is decreasing, hear a hissing sound, evaporator coils are frozen, or you see dirt in the AC lines. When it comes to detecting and repairing a Freon leak, well this is a larger issue with an AC system. These leaks can get worse over time and should be dealt with as soon as possible. Depending on where the leak is located, repairs can cost between hundreds and thousands of dollars. 

For those of you that are environmentally aware, if the leak is outside, this Freon leak can contribute to depleting the ozone layer. If the leak is inside your home it can affect your family’s health by getting into the airflow. 

FYI … adding more Freon to your air conditioner will not make this problem go away. You will want to make sure to get any leaks fixed as quickly as possible. 

Clogged Drain Issue: If the water line from the condenser becomes clogged, or if you start to have water leaks, it can become costly. Elite technicians will find the cause of the problem, clear the clog in the condenser, and pour a cleaning solution down the drain line to further flush the system clear. 

Broken Compressor Fan or Frozen Condenser Coils: The AC’s outside unit is where you will find the compressor, fan, and condenser coils. These components work to release heat from the air, transferring it out of your home to produce that cool, enjoyable indoor climate. When the outdoor fan isn’t working correctly, the heat transfer process is hindered. Not only will this prevent your AC from adequately cooling your home, a broken fan can cause the system’s compressor to overheat. This overheating can also cause damage to the compressor itself, requiring a costly compressor replacement. Poor airflow through your cooling system can cause ice to form on the coils.

If you think you have any of these AC repair issues, contact Elite Heating and Air Conditioning today. One of our skilled HVAC technicians can diagnose the problem and offer solutions that will fit right into your budget.

When Should You Replace Your AC System:

Typically, your AC should be replaced every 10 years and in some cases your AC system can last longer. But if you’re giving your AC a run for its money and not properly maintaining it, it could be sooner. These systems break down sooner because they work much harder than they are supposed to. 

HVAC systems that are too old are just plain unreliable, and have a tendency to break down. This causes them to use more energy than they should and can cause your monthly utility bills to escalate. This is where you need to decide if you should keep shelling out money on repairs where you end up paying more to keep fixing it than if you go ahead and invest in a newer unit. The services your HVAC professional provides will depend on what part(s) of the HVAC unit that is broken and needs replaced.

At Elite Heating and Air Conditioning, technicians have combined their licensed skills with Trane’s specialized certification. We provide professionalism with a steady commitment when it comes to honest dealing and doing business with integrity in North and South Austin as well as West Lake Hills, Lakeway, Leander, Pflugerville, Round Rock and surrounding cities.We understand problems don’t always happen in the daylight hours. That’s why we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

We also make AC financing easy! Getting an HVAC replacement doesn’t have to be a burden on your finances. We create a plan that fits in your budget. And even if you have less than ideal credit, give us a call. We’ve been able to help people in many types of financial circumstances get the HVAC replacement they want with the financing they need. We have interest free financing up to five years and provide a 10 year parts and 2 year labor warranty. Learn more on how you can be enrolled into the Austin Energy Rebate Program. 

Call us now at (512) 637-4237

How to Identify a Common HVAC Scam

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How to Identify a Common HVAC Scam

hvac-scam

Q: Is the technician actually being thorough, or just saying so?  

A: Did the technician hook up a gauge to the outdoor unit? Did they take temperatures of the air coming in and going out at the indoor unit. Here’s a rare one, did they even go into your attic to look at the ductwork?

 

Q: How do I know if I really need to replace my A/C or furnace system?

A: What is the age of your system? If it’s over ten years old it is theoretically a candidate for replacement, however that is far from saying you must replace it. It may simply be a hundred dollar capacitor keeps it going for another five years. Ask the tech a lot of questions. What did they find exactly? Have them write it all down on the invoice, because you will want them to have a checklist that walks you through each of the components of the system with amperage and details on each of the line items. That is what your $100 “diagnostic” charge is paying for after all.

 

And if you’re still not sure…

Call someone else. The fact that you may have a hot night, or could potentially have to buy a temporary window unit is frustrating, but by calling someone else and taking the information from both companies to compare, it may pay dividends for you in the long run. You would be astounded at the price differences of diagnoses that can and, unfortunately, do occur.

 

Bonus:

You WILL be told you have to replace the entire system because of a change in refrigerant the government is phasing out. This is often a really good idea for efficiency reasons, to be fair, but if you can’t afford the upgrades or plan to sell your home for instance, you certainly don’t have to buy the whole system. There are many replacement refrigerants available that are much more cost effective than the R-22 that is being phased out. For example, you can convert a new indoor coil to the new refrigerant after the fact, if the other components also goes out later. The salesperson WILL NOT tell you this.

 

What is a ‘manual J’ and how does it affect your home’s comfort and energy efficiency?

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If you are searching for a new HVAC system you may hear the term manual J, or at least you may see the term in your online research. However, surprisingly few contractors that come to your home to give you bid on your new HVAC system are actually performing a manual J.

What is a manual J?  

To simplify, it is a 3 dimensional computer program, that comes up with the CORRECT size of your A/C and heating system.  Be aware, a lot of contractors won’t do the little bit extra work  or use scary words like math, computers, and warranties –yikes..   However, it is the ONLY way to ensure your system is sized correctly.

How does it work?  

We input different the factors of your home into the program, these factors include; window sizes, window efficiency, insulation efficiency, roof and wall materials, the way the home faces, your climate area, the efficiency of your ductwork and the type of HVAC system you need. After this information is inputted in the computer program, it will tell us how big your air conditioner and heating system should be. In some cases it will also help us realize that a duct system might not be working well, or leaking, and that may need to be addressed as well.

Why does this matter?  

An HVAC system (furnace, coil, condenser and ductwork) all work together to provide you with comfort, cost you utility bills, and determine the longevity of your system.  The most common mistake contractors make when they don’t perform a manual J is to oversize your system. Why do they oversize it? Because you probably won’t call and complain until a couple years later when your warranty is up!

If you have a system that is too big you will be uncomfortable, paying too much in utility bills, and your system will not last as long. A properly sized air conditioner will run for long periods of time in the hot parts of the day and still keep your house cool and the humidity low. If the system is too large it will cool down the house really quickly and turn off, and then turn back on and cool off the house really quickly and repeat.  In Austin, Texas humidity and heat battle every day, we must get the humidity out of the house to make us comfortable.  Your system must run long enough to remove the humidity and only a properly sized system will run for long enough to accomplish this. Also turning on and off frequently as an oversized system will do, will ruin the system and your investment much more quickly.  Sort of like highway miles vs. city miles, the mechanical components of the system are at peace when they are running, but experience more wear and tear on the startup and shut down of the unit.  Especially in the spring and fall months where removing humidity is more important than cooling.

You will also be paying too much in utility bills if your system is not sized properly. If it is too large the frequent turning on and turning off of the system will cause it to constantly be running at its peak amperage. The startup of the unit has a large spike in the system electrical usage, as opposed to when it is running for several minutes the electrical usage levels out and becomes more efficient. It is a little bit counter intuitive that your system is more efficient when its running for a long time, but it is. Just like slamming on your gas on your Jaguar vs. cruising on the highway in your sweet Prius.  

 

 

bigger-not-betterIf a manual J is not done and a system is too small, the system will just not cool the house down to the temperature you would like it too be. This is the worst case for a contractor because you are sure to call back right away when it doesn’t cool you down to a reasonable temperature. That is why so many contractors oversize the systems and don’t do a manual J, they don’t want to go through the work of performing manual J and are scared of undersizing your system.  Bad contractors just oversize your system due to a lack of knowledge and to cut down on call backs, until your warranty is up, and it’s too late to do anything about it.  

Contractors are literally replacing systems that are 20 years old without checking that the size is correct.  These older system may be cooling your house to your satisfaction, but they probably also are working 3 X’s HARDER than they should because the components are dirty, old, and costing you much more in utility bills.  Because the system is old and dirty, it isn’t putting out the amount of cooling it is rated to be putting out. So while you may feel the size was correct of your old system, and tell your contractor to just put in the same size, you need to know, it isn’t going to be the same size. The newer system will be all shiny and clean and will deliver the correct amount of cooling it is rated at. Which may be way too much for your house because it isn’t slowed down by all the dirty and failing components.

If your contractor is not explaining this to you, find one that is up to date with the current requirements.  

Performing a manual J load calculation will help to ensure you will have a system that will last many years, will keep you cool, comfortable and at a lower cost.

Call Elite today at (512)637-4237 and find out how much a manual j could save you compared to your current unit!

DIY Repair Tips for Malfunctioning AC

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Whether you’re looking for the best ac repair Austin has to offer or do-it-yourself repair tips for fixing a malfunctioning AC, you’ve come to the right place! Here in the Lone Star State, and particularly in south and central Texas, we enjoy many common pleasantries: temperate weather, a bevy of different landscapes throughout the state, rich culinary traditions, lauded southern hospitality, and a big blue open sky to gaze upon.

Sweltering temperatures are an expected side effect of our bright and sunny summers, but unfortunately the sticky, blazing hot weather isn’t relegated to the few summer months. A working air conditioner that blows cool refreshing air is an absolute must in these parts.

With just a few tools, a little know-how, and some patience you can repair some common AC issues yourself in half the time it would take to have your air conditioner professionally repaired.

 

Schedule a Pro Repair Visit Today!

Not quite ready to dive into DIY air conditioner issues? We’ve got you covered!

Schedule Now

Gather Helpful Tools

Before you start banging on your unit, turning screws, and tearing things apart, gather a few handy tools. Having the necessary tools for this DIY project all lined up will save you time, money, and frustration.

Locate or purchase the following tools:

  • Socket/ratchet set
  • Insulated screwdrivers
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Cordless drill/driver
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • Voltage tester
  • Nut driver
  • Multimeter

Now that you have your tools handy, let’s go over what is actually inside an air conditioning unit and what you’ll be looking at when you begin troubleshooting.

Anatomy of an AC Unit

There are two major parts of an air conditioner: a condensing unit that sits outside of your house and the evaporator coil, sometimes referred to as the A-coil, that sits in the plenum (air distribution box attached directly to the supply outlet of the HVAC equipment) of your furnace or air handler.

The A-coil contains refrigerant that picks up the heat from an inside space and pushes it out to the outdoor condensing unit. The condensing unit fan then blows outside air through the condensing coil to cool the air down.

Inside the condensing unit resides three potentially replaceable parts: the contactor, the start/run capacitor(s), and the condenser fan motor. The condensing unit also contains the compressor, but only a professional can replace that. There are no replaceable parts within the A-coil for you, the trusty DIY-er.

Signs Your AC Unit Is Not Working

AC units can behave in several different ways when they are not operating correctly. Before you can begin troubleshooting and fixing possible issues, you must determine the parameters, or working conditions, of your unit.

Is your AC:

  • Not working/running at all?
  • Not cooling well but running?
  • Dripping or leaking water?
  • Making odd or loud noises?
  • Continually running and won’t turn off?

Now that you have pinpointed some high level behavior of your AC unit, and you have some knowledge about the internal and external working parts, it’s time to begin exploring what might be going wrong and what is keeping your air conditioner from cooling efficiently.

There are a few areas or pieces of equipment that may prove to be the malfunctioning culprit, including:

  • Thermostat – The thermostat may be configured incorrectly or may be failing.
  • Filter – The filter may be clogged or too dirty to work properly.
  • Circuit breakers – The unit may not be receiving power via the electrical panel.
  • Condensers – The fan, within the compressor in the outside unit, should be running and should sound similar to a running refrigerator.
  • Coil – The coil may be frozen, preventing appropriate airflow.
  • Drains and Pans – These can become dirty and can impede proper draining.
  • Connect Technology – Your Nest, Curb, or similar technology hub, may not be operating correctly.
  • Air Registers – If several of the internal air registers (grates that cover the airflow point inside) are closed or clogged, the reduced airflow may have caused the A-coil to ice up and stop cooling.

Some air conditioner repairs should be handled by a qualified AC repair company. Below, we cover several ways you can DIY simple repairs and maintenance of your air conditioning unit yourself, but if you’re feeling overwhelmed or simply don’t have the time to DIY contact a professional.

DIY Fixes for Common AC Issues

The following DIY tactics are specific for each type of air conditioning problem mentioned. A little elbow grease, some cursory knowledge of the workings of a standard air conditioner, and expert-level tips and tricks will help you remedy common AC issues, or at the very least determine whether you should call in the professionals to finish the job.                                                  

AC Not Working/Running

When the thermostat in your house reaches the set point that signals the AC unit to begin cooling, but your AC doesn’t kick on or begin cooling:

  • Locate and check your main electrical panel and any other circuit panels for a blown fuse or tripped breaker. If you find that a breaker is tripped go ahead and reset it by flipping it off and then back on. If a fuse is blown, go ahead and replace it. A central AC unit should be on a dedicated 240-volt circuit.

    If the breaker continually trips, there is probably a short in the system somewhere. Contact an electrician to have them verify whether the fan motor, compressor, or capacitor is the source of the problem.
  • Make sure the power is on. Check the power switches in the furnace or air handler, and in the outside condenser, to ensure that power is on for the system. Also double-check the compressor’s 240-volt disconnect to confirm that the power hasn’t been shut off there either.
  • Ensure that the thermostat is set to COOL, and that the temperature setting is at least a few degrees below room temperature. If your thermostat isn’t popping on due to an incorrect setting, simply re-set your desired temp and HEAT/COOL setting and re-test.
  • Verify that your thermostat’s batteries are fresh and that all wires are connected properly. To do so, remove the thermostat cover, then pull the thermostat base straight off. Replace the batteries and check that the connections between the wires and their terminals haven’t been pinched out of place by the cover. Replace the cover and wait a few minutes, then try to switch on the AC system again.
  • Determine whether the thermostat is faulty. Open the thermostat and remove the wire from the Y terminal. Turn the power back on, and holding the wire by its plastic insulation only, touch the bare end to the R terminal and hold it there for 1-2 minutes. If the compressor starts, your thermostat is faulty and needs to be replaced. If the compressor does not start, turn the power back off and call an air conditioning repair company.
  • Check the compressor’s capacitor and wire connections. The capacitor in the compressor starts the condenser and the fan, so if the capacitor has failed the AC won’t run. Shut down all power to the unit and verify that it is off before proceeding. Remove the electrical cover of the unit, and using a digital multimeter set to “Capacitance” place one lead on the “Common” terminal and the other lead on one of the other two terminals. If the meter shows “OL” that means there is a short somewhere.

    See how to test an air conditioning condensing unit capacitor and wires:

    AC Not Cooling But Running

    Sometimes an air conditioner will be obviously running but no cool air, or just tepid air, is coming out through the vents. In this case, ensure that nothing is blocking or limiting the airflow in the air filters, registers, and compressor.

    To check blockage and airflow:

    • Clean or replace the filter. Remove the front door of the air handler cabinet and pull out the filter. If the filter is dirty, grimy, or caked with debris of any kind vacuum it and then soak it in a bucket of equal parts vinegar and water for a few hours to kill harmful bacteria, dirt, and allergens. Allow the filter to drain and then dry.

      If you notice any rips or snags, don’t even bother to clean the filter. Replace it, as continuing to use them when they are worn out will definitely limit efficiency.
    • Look for ice around the coils. If you notice that there is ice accumulation around the cools, close the unit up and turn the fan on. The ice will melt in a couple of hours. Ice around the coils is likely caused by reduced airflow due to soiled filters or coils, or a low refrigerant level (which is something that should be checked and recharged by a professional, like Elite Austin AC.)

    • Clean out the condensate drain. Air conditions create a lot of water because they remove moisture from the air as they work, and you can often see water pooling around the unit. Algae can block the drain pipe and cause the AC to stop working.


      See the instructions below for dealing with condensate problems (
    • Check the outdoor compressor. Clean the outdoor compressor, including the coils.

      If the compressor fan isn’t turning on when you set the thermostat to a temperature below room temperature look for an overload button or reset switch and reset it. If your AC unit does not employ this option, use a screwdriver or long stick to attempt to spin the fan blades clockwise. If the blades spin freely and the fan gives the unit enough boost to begin working then your capacitor is faulty and needs to be replaced.


      If cleaning the compressor coils and kickstarting the fan blades doesn’t work, have a qualified local air conditioning repair professional recharge the coolant in the unit.

    AC Dripping or Leaking Water

    In especially humid climates, like many areas of Texas, air conditioners can create gallons of water per day, which exits through a drain tube attached to the air handler. If water is dripping or puddling near the base of the air handler it may be leaking from the drain tube, something could be blocking the water flow, or the condensate pump could be malfunctioning.

    Some unit models have a safety float switch that will flip off the AC if the drain tube backs up, which is a definite sign that the drain tube should be replaced.

    To remedy dripping or leaking water:

    • Make sure the electric condensate pump is connected to a working electrical outlet. Then look to see if the drain tubing has come loose or is disconnected from the pump. If so, reconnect it. If the drain tube is clogged with algae use a wet-dry vacuum to suck all the water out of the tube.
    • Test the condensate pump. Pour water into the collector, which is turned on by a ball float that moves with the water level. The pump should start. If it is stuck, disconnect the pump and clean it out. If it’s old, broken, or worn, replace the condensate pump.

      If the pump runs but doesn’t empty out as it should, unscrew the check valve, loosen the ball float inside, and look for blocking or algae build-up. If dirty or clogged, remove it and blow it out or run a wire through the inside to clear the blockage.
    • If ice is blocking the tube, clean or change your AC filters ANCHOR LINK FOR ABOVE. If the air conditioner filters look fine and relatively clean then the AC’s refrigerant supply is likely too low. Have a professional recharge the unit.

    AC Unit is Noisy

    If your air conditioner is making a racket, the air handler, the outdoor compressor, or the ductwork could be to blame.

    Air Handler Making Noise

    The air handler sometimes makes a squealing, grinding, or buzzing noise. To alleviate the noisiness:

    • Check the connection between the belt and the motor. Most air handlers are equipped with direct-drive motors, but some older units are belt-driven. When you hear squealing sounds coming from the air handler that may mean that the belt is improperly aligned or in need of replacement. Refer to you owner’s manual for instructions on how to replace the belt.



      If your direct-drive blower is making squealing or grinding noises shut down the unit and contact an HVAC professional. The motor’s bearings may be worn down and need to be replaced.

      If your air handler is making a buzzing noise when you turn on the thermostat switch the thermostat HEAT/COOL toggle to OFF, and then switch the fan from AUTO to ON. The fan should begin running. If the air handler starts buzzing the fan relay or blower fan may need to be replaced.

    Outside Compressor Making Noise

    Likewise, the outside compressor may be emitting buzzing, humming, or grinding noises. To alleviate the noisiness:

    • If the AC compressor is buzzing the run capacitor may not be working. If that is the case, the motor will overheat when it tries to start, and a thermal overload switch may shut it off. Deftly poke a long screwdriver or stick through the outside unit grill and attempt to spin the fan clockwise. If it starts spinning and then stops after one cycle, the capacitor needs to be replaced.
    • If the AC compressor is humming when you turn the thermostat to the COOL setting the issue is likely the low voltage transformer for the unit. Contact a professional to troubleshoot or fix the transformer.
    • If the AC compressor is making a grinding noise the motor bearings may be worn out. Replace the motor.

    Ductwork Making Noise

    Heating and cooling ducts are typically metal and conduct noise very easily as the air handling unit helps to move air into the rooms inside. To eliminate ductwork noise:

    • Insert flexible insulation ductwork between the heating and cooling system and the ductwork. Have an HVAC professional complete this installation if needed.

    • If the ductwork is making a pinging or popping noise, locate the source of the sound along the duct and make a small dent into the sheet metal. This provides a more stable surface that is less likely to move as it heats and cools.

    AC Won’t Turn Off

    If your AC unit does not turn off when room temperature reaches the temperature set via the thermostat, the thermostat itself or the electrical system that runs the outside condensing unit may be the issue.

    To fix a continually running AC unit:

    • Check to see if the thermostat is displaying any values. If it shows a blank screen, or if the AC shuts off when you switch it to the HEAT setting, the thermostat is probably broken and needs to be replaced.
    • Remove the yellow low-voltage wire from the thermostat while the AC is running. If the unit turns off, the thermostat is broken or wired improperly. If no thermostat wires are cross-connected, buy and install a new thermostat.

      If the AC does not turn off when you remove the wire from the thermostat the outdoor run relay contacts may be stuck together or malfunctioning. Turn off the power to the furnace and condensing unit, disassemble the relay, and pry apart the contacts.

    Test Your DIY AC Fixes

    Air conditioning units and thermostats have built-in delay features, which can last up to 10 minutes, when they’ve been shut down and powered back up again. If you have an energy-saving device installed from your local power utility the unit could take even longer to reset. Be patient!

    If you’ve followed the DIY air conditioner repair steps noted above, have ensured that breakers and electrical panels are all turned on and receiving power, and have moved the thermostat to AC mode with a temperature below the current indoor temperature, and the unit doesn’t begin running after about 30 minutes it’s time to call a professional!

    Our do-it-yourself AC repair tips cover a lot of ground, and may provide the improvement you are seeking, but if you’re experiencing continuing AC issues don’t hesitate hire an expert.

     

    Gather Helpful Tools

    Anatomy of an AC Unit

    Signs Your AC Unit Is Not Working

    DIY Fixes for Common AC Issues

    AC Not Working/Running

    AC Not Cooling But Running

    AC Dripping or Leaking Water

    AC Unit is Noisy

    Air Handler Making Noise

    Outside Compressor Making Noise

    Ductwork Making Noise

    AC Won’t Turn Off

    Test Your DIY AC Fixes

7 Easy DIY Steps to Prevent and Fix Common HVAC Repairs

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7 DIY HVAC Repairs

**Please Note: HVAC professionals exist for a reason and if you, for any reason, feel something is too far outside of your comfort zone, please don’t hesitate to Contact an HVAC Expert.**
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Austin, TX is the place we call home and it has stolen ourarts for many reasons, including its multi-genre live music and the eclectic array of characters, lifestyles and tacos that coexist here. However, all of these unique and enjoyable aspects come with a downside – the Texas summer heat!

If you’ve lived in Austin for any length of time, you know the Texas summer can be brutal! As the temperatures outside soar, your air conditioner will work overtime to keep up and that’s when problems can arise. That’s why we’ve put together the 7 easy DIY steps you can do to prevent and fix common HVAC problems.  These are simple steps you can take before calling a certified technician.

Before we get started, let’s review the top signs your HVAC is broken.
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Should I Continue Repairing My HVAC Unit?

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austin ac repair or replacement

The most common question we get from homeowners is:

“Should we continue repairing our air conditioner or should we go ahead and replace it?”

Before we cover the top Keep in mind you can purchase a new unit starting at $3999 fully installed, so consider the following factors:
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