What To Do Before Calling HVAC Service

Before you pick up the phone and call for heater or air conditioning service, you may want to check some things.
These simple steps may save you some money! Let’s face it, once a technician arrives and starts checking out your unit, “the clock is running,” and you will have to pay for the services.
First, check your thermostat. Make sure the batteries aren’t dead. If you have a digital thermostat, it will probably display that the battery is dead.
As a preventive measure, you may want to change batteries once or twice a year. Make sure your thermostat is in the correct mode for either heat or cool, and that the system is on.
Once you turn it on or set the thermostat to the correct mode and temperature, give it some time to come on, and let it run a little while to be sure it doesn’t shut off.
Second, make sure there is nothing interfering with air flow. Check that the filter is also clean.
Third, check the fuse box. You’d be surprised how many calls are made because people didn’t check the fuse box. Reset the breaker, and the system should come on. If this happens again, you need to call a professional to determine the reason.
If all three of these items are working properly, make sure that all windows are closed. During air conditioning season, remember that most air conditioners are only able to cool the indoor air to about 20 degrees below the outside temperature. On an extremely hot day, your air conditioner will seem like it’s struggling to keep up, but just be patient.
It’s also important to have your heater and air conditioner checked annually to keep them running safely and efficiently.
If, after checking all these things, your heater or air conditioner still doesn’t come on, it’s time to call the professionals.
Call Grace Energy, 609-465-5545, and one of our BPI- and NATE-certified technicians will be happy to get your system running again.
—Submitted by Mary Del Corio of Grace Energy