This guide addresses common issues and best practices for forced air and air conditioning systems, including:
- If the forced air unit is not working properly
- If your air conditioning unit shuts down or will not start
- If your air conditioning unit is continually running
- If your air conditioning unit fails to cool quickly
- Homeowner use and maintenance guidelines
- Alturas Homes limited warranty guidelines
If Your Forced Air Unit Is Not Working Properly:
- Check the thermostat: Ensure it’s set to a temperature higher than the room temperature and has power.
- Inspect the furnace door: Make sure it’s securely closed and latched.
- Verify power and gas supply: Check the circuit breaker and confirm the gas service and valve are on.
- Pilot light or ignition device: Confirm they’re functioning correctly.
If the issue persists, contact the HVAC contractor listed on the furnace for assistance.
If Your Air Conditioning Unit Shuts Down or Won’t Start:
- Adjust the thermostat: Set it to a temperature cooler than the room air.
- Inspect the circuit breaker: Reset it if tripped.
- Check the outdoor fuse box: Ensure the fuse is properly installed and functional.
If Your Air Conditioning Unit Runs Continuously:
- Set a reasonable temperature: Keep the thermostat no more than 20°F below the peak outside temperature.
- Understand hot weather demands: On days above 95°F, the system may run continuously and cool your home by no more than 17°F.
- Change your filter: Replace it every 30 days to maintain efficiency and prevent clogs.
If the coil freezes up, turn off the system and let it thaw completely before restarting.
If Your Air Conditioning Fails to Cool Quickly:
- Leave the unit running: Air conditioners work best when operating continuously.
- Plan ahead: Set the thermostat in the morning to a comfortable level to prevent heat buildup throughout the day.
- Avoid extreme settings: Setting the thermostat to very low temperatures won’t cool your home faster and may cause the unit to freeze up.
Homeowner Use and Maintenance Guidelines
Air conditioning plays a significant role in enhancing your home’s comfort, but improper or inefficient use can lead to wasted energy and frustration. The following guidelines are designed to help you maximize the performance of your air conditioning system.
Understanding Your Air Conditioning System
Your air conditioning system is a whole-house system that works by cooling the air inside your home. The unit produces cool air, and everything inside the house—such as drapes, blinds, and windows—affects the overall performance of the system.
Since your home air conditioning is a closed system, it continuously recycles and cools the interior air until it reaches the desired temperature. Warm outside air can disrupt this process, so it’s important to keep all windows closed.
The sun’s heat can also counteract the cooling effect, especially when drapes are open. For optimal results, close drapes or blinds over windows that receive direct sunlight.
Managing Expectations for Cooling
Unlike instant systems like a light bulb, air conditioners take time to cool the space. For instance, if you return home at 6 PM when the temperature inside has reached 90°F, and set the thermostat to 75°F, the air conditioner will begin the cooling process but may take a while to reach that target temperature. This delay happens because the walls, carpet, and furniture, which have absorbed heat throughout the day, release that heat slowly as the system cools the air.
To avoid impatience, it’s helpful to set the thermostat to a moderate temperature in the morning when the house is cooler, allowing the system to maintain that temperature. Then, when you return, adjust the thermostat slightly for more efficient cooling.
Note: Setting the thermostat to a very low temperature, such as 60°F, will not speed up the cooling process and may even cause the system to freeze, which can prevent it from working properly.
Adjusting Vents for Maximum Airflow
Maximize airflow to the areas of your home that you occupy most by adjusting the vents. You can also adjust them with the seasons to ensure you’re getting optimal cooling or heating where needed.
Compressor Positioning
Ensure your air conditioning compressor is kept level to avoid inefficient operation or damage. An improperly positioned compressor can lead to system malfunctions.
Humidifier Use
If your system includes a humidifier, make sure to turn it off when using the air conditioner. Extra moisture in the air can cause the cooling system to freeze up.
Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions
Since the air conditioning system often works in tandem with your heating system, always refer to the manufacturer’s manual for maintenance instructions. The manual will provide specific guidelines on maintaining both the air conditioning condenser and the furnace.
Temperature Variations
It’s normal for temperatures to vary slightly from room to room due to several factors, such as your home’s layout, the direction it faces, the type of window coverings, and the amount of foot traffic. Understanding these factors can help you adjust your expectations and optimize comfort.
Alturas Homes Limited Warranty Guidelines:
- Performance expectations: Your system should maintain a temperature of 78°F or a 17°F differential from outside temperatures.
- Compressor leveling: Alturas Homes will correct settling during the warranty period.
- Coolant adjustment: If the system wasn’t fully charged due to winter conditions, this will be addressed in the spring.
If troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, contact your HVAC contractor or Alturas Customer Care for further assistance. Heating and cooling requests are handled in the order they are received, as lack of air conditioning service is not considered an emergency.