If you are experiencing issues with the outdoor unit of your HVAC system, it's a good idea to consult with the best HVAC company in Knoxville, TN, for expert advice, especially if your unit hasn't been serviced recently. However, there are some basic steps you can take before making the call that could resolve the problem if it is something minor.
Let's take a look at some of the most common reasons why your HVAC unit is not turning on and whether or not you need professional assistance from the best HVAC company in Knoxville, TN.
1 - Check The Thermostat
It is always best to start with the basics. If your air conditioner is not cooling or is not turning on at all, the first port of call should be your thermostat! Is the thermostat on? If so, is it set to the appropriate temperature? There is always a possibility that someone else in your household has adjusted the thermostat or turned it off, so it is always a good idea to check this out before calling the best HVAC company in Knoxville, TN, for assistance. If you find that the thermostat has been turned off, turn it back on and set the temperature to around 5 degrees below the ambient room temperature. If the AC kicks in, then this is likely the cause of the problem, and no further action is needed. If nothing happens, then we need to do a little more detective work!
2 - Check The Shut-Off/Emergency Switch
Another common reason for outdoor HVAC units not turning on is that they have no power running to them. Check your unit for a shut-off or emergency switch and verify that it has not been accidentally flipped. Your unit may also have a reset switch, depending on the model. Once you have turned the shut-off back to the 'on' position and hit the reset if available, wait a minute or two to see if the unit powers back up.
3 - Look For Blown Fuses
While we are talking about the power source for your HVAC unit, it is also worth checking out your home's circuit breaker and seeing if any of the fuses have blown. This often happens when the circuit is overloaded, a situation that can occur if your HVAC system has been working harder than it should. If this is the case, then it is a good idea to get a tune-up from the best HVAC company in Knoxville, TN, as neglect is one of the main reasons your HVAC is working harder than necessary. Issues such as dirty condenser units and clogged filters are common culprits. If you turn the circuit breaker back on and it trips again immediately, you must call an electrician.
4 - Check The Condensate Drain Line
Your HVAC unit has a condensate drain line that removes water built up when the evaporator converts the refrigerant from liquid to gas. If the condensate drain line is not cleaned regularly, it can get clogged with algae and other grime. It may also become clogged during periods of high humidity. Once the line is blocked, it triggers a safety switch that turns off the HVAC unit. You can use a wet vacuum to clear clogs from the line. If this does not resolve the issue, it is time to consult with the best HVAC company in Knoxville, TN, to identify the root cause of the problem.
5 - Check Freon Levels
Another common reason why your outdoor HVAC unit is failing to turn on is that it is low on Freon. Freon is the refrigerant needed to cool warm air from outside and blow it into the home as cool air. If your Freon levels have dropped, it’s usually a sign that there’s a leak hidden somewhere in the system. Typical signs of a Freon leak include ice buildup on the unit and a hissing noise near the unit. Refrigerants are hazardous, so they should only be handled by licensed professionals. If you suspect a freon leak, it is time to call the best HVAC Company in Knoxville, TN, for help and advice.
Keeping your outdoor HVAC unit in top shape often comes down to regular maintenance and prompt attention to minor issues before they escalate. By checking simple things like thermostat settings, shut-off switches, fuses, the condensate drain line, and Freon levels, you can get your system running again with minimal hassle. However, if these quick fixes don't do the trick—or if you suspect a more serious problem—it's always best to trust the expertise of the best HVAC company in Knoxville, TN. Their skilled technicians can pinpoint the problem and fix it safely, keeping your home comfortable in every season.
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Gent Heating and Cooling provide heating and air conditioning for residential and commercial clients in Knoxville, Knox County, and the surrounding East Tennessee area. Over 20 Years experience. Customer Service is Our Top Priority. We strive to be on time, provide accurate estimates, and have most replacement products on our service vehicles.
Call 865-213-3818 or email office@genthvac.com
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