Favret Heating And Cooling Columbus Ohio

Living in Columbus, Ohio, we experience both scorching summers and freezing winters. This puts a significant strain on our HVAC systems. One of the most common issues homeowners face, and one that Favret Heating and Cooling frequently addresses, is a lack of heating or cooling throughout the house, despite the thermostat being set correctly. Let's break down how you can troubleshoot this problem before calling for professional help.

Diagnosing the Problem: A Step-by-Step Approach

Before diving in, remember safety first! Turn off the power to your HVAC system at the breaker box before performing any checks that involve electrical components. If you're uncomfortable with any of these steps, call Favret Heating and Cooling for assistance.

Step 1: Thermostat Check (No Tools Required)

The thermostat is the brain of your HVAC system. A simple misconfiguration can lead to big problems.

Verify the settings: Make sure the thermostat is set to "Heat" in the winter and "Cool" in the summer. Ensure the temperature setting is higher than the current room temperature if you're trying to heat, and lower if you're trying to cool. It sounds obvious, but it's a common mistake.
Check the batteries: Many thermostats run on batteries. If the display is dim or blank, replace them with fresh ones. A low battery can cause erratic behavior.
Fan setting: Is the fan set to "Auto" or "On"? If it's on "On," the fan will run constantly, which might not be what you want, especially if the system isn't actively heating or cooling. For normal operation, "Auto" is usually preferred.

Step 2: Air Filter Inspection (No Tools Required)

A dirty air filter is a major culprit for reduced airflow and system inefficiency. It can also lead to more serious problems down the line.

Locate the filter: Typically, the air filter is located near the blower motor in your furnace or air handler. It's often behind a removable panel.
Inspect the filter: Remove the filter and hold it up to the light. If you can barely see through it, it's dirty and needs replacing.
Replace the filter: Use a filter of the correct size and type. The size is usually printed on the filter itself. Make sure the arrow on the filter points in the direction of airflow.

Pro Tip: Regularly replacing your air filter (every 1-3 months, depending on usage and filter type) can significantly improve your HVAC system's performance and lifespan. Favret Heating and Cooling can advise you on the best filter type for your system.

Step 3: Check the Outdoor Unit (No Tools Required - Visual Inspection Only!)

The outdoor unit (condenser) plays a crucial role in cooling. A blocked or damaged unit can prevent proper operation.

Visual Inspection: Walk around the unit and look for any obvious obstructions, such as leaves, branches, or snow. Clear away any debris that's blocking airflow.
Check for ice: In the winter, ice can accumulate on the coils. If you see a thick layer of ice, do not attempt to chip it away. This can damage the delicate fins. Instead, turn off the unit and call Favret Heating and Cooling.
Listen for unusual noises: A loud buzzing, grinding, or rattling sound could indicate a problem with the compressor or fan motor. If you hear anything unusual, turn off the unit and call a professional.

Important: Do not attempt to open or repair the outdoor unit yourself. Refrigerant handling requires specialized equipment and training.

Step 4: Inspect the Vents (No Tools Required)

Restricted airflow can be caused by blocked vents. A quick check is worthwhile.

Ensure vents are open: Make sure all vents are fully open and not obstructed by furniture, rugs, or curtains.
Check for drafts: Feel around the vents to see if air is flowing. If some vents have weak airflow, investigate further.
Inspect ductwork (if accessible): If you have exposed ductwork in your basement or attic, look for any signs of damage, such as leaks or disconnections.

Step 5: Circuit Breaker Check (No Tools Required - Be Careful!)

A tripped circuit breaker is a common cause of HVAC problems. This requires extra caution.

Locate the breaker: Find the circuit breaker that controls your HVAC system. It's usually labeled.
Check the position: If the breaker is in the "Off" or "Tripped" position, flip it all the way to the "Off" position and then back to the "On" position.
Monitor: If the breaker trips again immediately, do not keep resetting it. This could indicate a more serious electrical problem. Call Favret Heating and Cooling.

Warning: If you're unsure which breaker controls your HVAC system, or if you're uncomfortable working with electricity, call a qualified electrician.

Step 6: Basic Voltage Check (Requires a Multimeter - Only for Experienced DIYers)

Caution: This step involves working with electricity and should only be attempted by individuals with experience using a multimeter and understanding electrical safety. If you're not comfortable, call Favret Heating and Cooling.

Safety First: Turn off the power to the HVAC system at the breaker box.
Locate the Contactor: Inside the outdoor unit, find the contactor (a switch that controls power to the compressor and fan motor).
Voltage Check: Using a multimeter, check the voltage on both sides of the contactor. You should have 220-240 volts on both sides when the system is supposed to be running. If you have voltage on one side but not the other, the contactor may be faulty.
Return to Safety: Turn off power.

Important: Replacing a contactor is a relatively simple repair for a qualified HVAC technician. It's best to leave this to the professionals.

Step 7: Pilot Light Check (For Gas Furnaces Only - No Tools Required)

If you have a gas furnace, a pilot light outage can prevent the furnace from heating.

Locate the Pilot Light: Follow the instructions on your furnace to locate the pilot light.
Check for Flame: If the pilot light is out, relight it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Troubleshooting: If the pilot light goes out repeatedly, there may be a problem with the gas valve or thermocouple. Call Favret Heating and Cooling.

Important: If you smell gas, immediately evacuate the area and call your gas company.

When to Call Favret Heating and Cooling (Columbus, Ohio)

While these DIY steps can help you diagnose and resolve some common HVAC problems, there are situations where professional help is essential. Call Favret Heating and Cooling if:

You're uncomfortable performing any of the troubleshooting steps.
You suspect a refrigerant leak.
You hear unusual noises coming from your HVAC system.
Your circuit breaker trips repeatedly.
Your pilot light goes out repeatedly (gas furnace).
You suspect a gas leak.
You've tried the DIY steps and your system still isn't working.
You need help selecting the right filter for your HVAC system.

Favret Heating and Cooling has a team of experienced and certified technicians who can diagnose and repair any HVAC problem. We offer a wide range of services, including:

HVAC repair
HVAC installation
HVAC maintenance
Duct cleaning
Indoor air quality solutions

Remember: Regular HVAC maintenance can help prevent problems and extend the life of your system. Favret Heating and Cooling offers maintenance plans to keep your system running smoothly.

Preventive Measures to Keep Your HVAC System Healthy

Being proactive is the key to minimizing HVAC issues. Here are a few simple things you can do regularly:

Change air filters regularly: As mentioned, this is crucial. Set a reminder on your phone or calendar.
Keep outdoor unit clear: Trim shrubs and plants around the outdoor unit to ensure proper airflow.
Seal air leaks: Caulk around windows and doors to prevent drafts and improve energy efficiency.
Schedule annual maintenance: Have Favret Heating and Cooling inspect your system annually to identify and address potential problems early on.

By following these tips, you can keep your HVAC system running efficiently and reliably, ensuring your home is comfortable year-round. And when you need professional help, Favret Heating and Cooling is always here to serve the Columbus, Ohio community.

Contact us today for all your heating and cooling needs!