Before You Call a Technician
- Check That the Thermostat is Set Correctly
Take a moment to make sure that your system is “ON” and set to either heat or cool. Many systems have a built-in delay, so you may have to wait a few minutes after making an adjustment to see if the system comes on.
- Check Your Thermostatg Batteries
Some thermostats have batteries to do a variety of tasks. You might see an indicator on the display (something like “BATT”) when the batteries are low. If you’re not sure how to get to the batteries, or if your thermostat has batteries at all, have the technician show you at your next maintenance visit. It is a good idea to change your thermostat batteries when you change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Check Your Airflow
If you are able to reach it, check to see if you can feel airflow. If a decrease in your HVAC system’s airflow concerns you, make sure something is not blocking your supply or return air registers. It’s also a good idea to make sure your filter is clean or replaced with a new one.
- Check the Circuit Breaker
Resetting the breaker may be all your need to do to get your HVAC system running. However, if it happens repeatedly, a technician should be called to check your system.
- Check the Temperature Outdoors
Most air conditioners are designed to cool the air about 20 degrees. On a Very hot day, your air conditioner may struggle to keep up. Just be patient and try to avoid activities that would add more heat to the building.
Save Time and Money by Prepearing for a Service Call
- Be prepared to give the HVAC technician a detailed description of what the problem is. The more information you can provide, the easier troubleshooting the system will be for the technician.
- Helpful details include noises, frozen pipes, smells, and other details. If possible, take photos and record sounds with your phone.
- If your pipes are frozen, immediately turn your air conditioner off and leave the fan running so that the pipes can thaw out.
- Let your technician know if you’ve had the same problem before, and if another technician repaired it in the past. This information can help your current technician to quickly narrow down the component in need of repair or replacement.
What You Should Know About Costs and Warranties
What is the cost of a service call?
- Our service calls are billed at an hourly rate and we require a minimum of two hours.
Is there a cost for service even if my system is under warranty?
- Although your parts may be under warranty, labor to make repairs is not included.
- Additionally, each component within your HVAC system may carry a different warranty.
Are there situations where my system isn’t covered by a warranty?
- Unfortunately, materials such as line sets, insulation, drain lines, disconnects, are not covered items under warranties.
- External causes such as a storm, flooding, vandalism or lack of maintenance are likely not covered by your warranty, but may be covered under your commercial property insurance.
- It’s always best to check ahead to see if you’re covered by your warranty. If you place a service call that is determined not to be covered under your warranty, you are responsible for the cost of the service call.