How to Troubleshoot Issues With Your Heating and Air System

Air conditioners, heat pumps, and furnaces are all large appliances that work to keep your home comfortable and are built to last years. However, like any mechanical system, they can occasionally experience problems. Before calling a professional, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take yourself. This guide from the heating and cooling experts at Jackson & Sons will help you identify common HVAC system issues and determine the next steps.

Thermostat Issues

The thermostat serves as the command center for your heating & air system. Before assuming there’s a major problem, check these simple thermostat-related issues:

What You Can Check:

• Verify the thermostat is set to the correct mode (heat or cool)
• Confirm your temperature setting is appropriate
• Check that the thermostat has power (change batteries if needed)
• Ensure the thermostat isn’t exposed to direct sunlight or drafts that could affect its temperature reading

When to Call a Professional:

• If there’s a significant discrepancy between the temperature reading on your thermostat and the actual room temperature
• If your system doesn’t respond when you adjust the settings
• If your thermostat display is blank or showing error codes

How Your Thermostat Affects Comfort: Your thermostat communicates with your unit through electrical signals that tell the system when to turn on and off. If this communication is disrupted, your system won’t know when to operate. A malfunctioning thermostat can cause your system to run continuously, short cycle, or not run at all—all of which impact your home’s comfort and energy efficiency.

Air Filter Maintenance

A clean air filter is essential for proper heating and cooling operation. Restricted airflow from a clogged filter forces your system to work harder and less efficiently.

What You Can Check:

• Locate your system’s air filter (typically found in the return air duct or in the indoor air handler)
• Replace or clean the filter according to manufacturer recommendations (can range from every 30 days to every 6 months)

When to Call a Professional:

• If you’ve replaced the filter but still experience poor airflow from vents
• If you notice uneven heating or cooling throughout your home
• If you hear unusual noises from your system after replacing the filter

Impact of Dirty Filters: A clogged air filter restricts airflow through your system, reducing efficiency and potentially causing your heat pump, AC, or furnace to overheat. This can lead to comfort issues and even system damage if left unaddressed.

Outdoor Unit Issues

The outdoor unit needs proper airflow and clearance to function effectively. Obstructions can significantly impact performance.

What You Can Check:

• Inspect the outdoor unit for debris like leaves, grass clippings, or branches
• Clear vegetation within at least 2 feet around the unit
• Remove any snow or ice buildup during the winter months
• Check for any visible damage to the unit’s fins or coils

When to Call a Professional:

• If the outdoor unit is making unusual noises (grinding, squealing, or rattling)
• If you notice ice formation on the unit during operation
• If the fan isn’t spinning when the system is running
• If there’s visible damage to components

Why Clearance Matters: An outdoor unit of a heat pump needs to exchange air with the environment to function. When blocked, it restricts the heat exchange process, forcing your heat pump to run longer cycles without achieving desired temperatures. This increases energy usage while decreasing comfort.

Additional Troubleshooting Tips

• Check circuit breakers: A tripped breaker can shut down your system. Check your electrical panel and reset any tripped breakers.
• Inspect ductwork: Visible ducts should be checked for disconnections or damage.
• Verify registers are open: Make sure supply and return vents aren’t blocked by furniture or closed.

Ultimately, regular maintenance is the best way to prevent HVAC issues. 

By performing these basic troubleshooting steps, you can often resolve minor AC, furnace, and heat pump issues and know when it’s appropriate to call for professional service. If you’d like more information or need assistance with your heating and cooling system, call our team at (919) 636-6222 .