HVAC: every answer
HVAC problems, sorted by how fast you need to move.
Tap what you are seeing. In a few taps you get what is likely wrong, what to do in the next five minutes, and what a fair repair should cost. Prefer to tap through? Start the hvac triage.
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- Right nowCarbon monoxide alarm: get everyone out, then call 911
- Right nowElectrical or hot plastic smell: turn the system off
- Right nowGas smell: leave now, call the utility from outside
- Right nowHissing or bubbling: a leak, gas or refrigerant
- TodayBanging, clanking or rattling: something is loose
- TodayEverything runs, nothing cools: refrigerant or compressor
- TodayFix the setting or the filter, then give it an hour
- TodayFrozen coil: turn cooling off and let it thaw
- TodayFurnace will not light: four checks, then call
- TodayHeat pump encased in ice or defrosting constantly
- TodayHumming, fan not spinning: probably the capacitor
- TodayOutdoor unit dead: check the breaker and the disconnect once
- TodaySomething else: the general HVAC first aid
- TodaySquealing, screeching or grinding: a motor or bearing
- TodayThermostat blank: batteries, breaker, then the safety switches
- TodayWater around the indoor unit: a clogged condensate drain
- This week'It just needs a recharge': ask where the refrigerant went
- This weekShort cycling: on and off every few minutes
- Plan it'Your system is dangerous, replace it today': get a second opinion
- Plan itA new system quote: load calculation, permit, refrigerant
- Plan itCannot keep up in a heat wave: it may be doing its job
- Plan itDusty burning smell on first heat: usually normal
- Plan itHeat pump steam and lukewarm air: normal in cold weather
- Plan itRepair or replace: run the $5,000 rule, then the refrigerant question
- Plan itThe tune-up upsell: worth it once a year, not as a sales visit