Common Questions/Repairs
Filter Maintenance
When was the last time you changed your filter?
Was the filter dirty? Did you replace it before your problem started? If you replaced it after your problem started, did you turn your system off for a significant amount of time (12-24 hours) and did you make sure there was no frost on the copper line coming into your home from your condenser unit outside? If there was no visible frost, you waited a significant amount of time, you changed your filter, and your system is still not working we recommend a Platinum Technician come take a look!
Did You Change Your Filter?... Here’s Why It Matters...
Why is Changing Your Filter Important?
A clean filter ensures your HVAC system operates efficiently and protects it from unnecessary wear and tear. Here’s why it’s so important:
- Improved Airflow: A clean filter allows air to flow freely, ensuring your system doesn’t have to work harder to heat or cool your home.
- Better Indoor Air Quality: Filters trap dust, pollen, pet dander, and other particles, keeping the air in your home cleaner and healthier.
- Lower Energy Bills: A dirty filter restricts airflow, making your system work harder and increasing energy consumption.
- Extended Equipment Life: By preventing dirt and debris from entering your HVAC system, you reduce the risk of costly repairs or premature system failure.
Problems a Dirty Filter Can Cause
If your filter is dirty or clogged, it can lead to several issues, including:
- Reduced Efficiency: Your system struggles to move air, wasting energy and money.
- Uneven Heating or Cooling: Poor airflow can create hot or cold spots in your home.
- Increased Repairs: Dirty filters can cause parts like the blower motor or compressor to overwork, leading to breakdowns.
- Frozen Coils: Restricted airflow can cause the evaporator coils to freeze, stopping your system from working entirely.
- Poor Air Quality: A dirty filter lets dust, allergens, and other pollutants circulate in your home.
How Often Should You Change Your Filter?
The frequency depends on factors like your system, home environment, and filter type:
- Every 1-3 Months: Most standard filters should be replaced every 1-3 months.
- Monthly: If you have pets, allergies, or live in a dusty area, check and replace your filter monthly.
- Seasonally: For systems used occasionally, such as a vacation home, replace the filter at least seasonally.
Safety Concerns
Do You Smell Gas?
If the answer is Yes!
- Leave the area immediately – don’t turn on lights, appliances, or anything that could cause a spark.
- Avoid using phones until you are safely outside.
- Call your gas company or 911 from a safe distance to report the leak.
- Do not re-enter your home until it’s been inspected and declared safe.
Safety first – act quickly and cautiously. After, if a repair is needed, we are here to help!
Power Issues
What Should I Do If There Is No Power to My System?
Follow these steps to determine if the issue is a tripped breaker or requires a repair:
- Check the Breaker Panel
- Look for a breaker that is in the middle position or has flipped to off.
- Reset it by turning it fully off, then back to on.
- Test the System
- If the HVAC system turns back on and runs normally, it was likely just a tripped breaker.
- If the breaker trips again immediately or shortly after, there may be an underlying issue.
- Signs You Need a Repair:
- Breaker keeps tripping.
- Strange noises, smells, or system failure.
- No power even after resetting the breaker.
If the breaker continues to trip, Platinum Air is here to help.
Heating Problems
Do I Have a Pilot Light? How Can I Tell If It's Out?
- Check for a Flame
- Look at your furnace or water heater’s pilot light area (typically behind a small access panel).
- If you don’t see a small blue flame, the pilot light is out.
- No Heat or Hot Water
- If your system isn’t producing heat or hot water, the pilot light could be the cause.
- Check for Gas Smell
- If you smell gas, leave the area immediately and call for professional help.
What to Do If the Pilot Light is Out?
- If you feel comfortable to do so, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it.
- If it keeps going out, there may be an issue with the thermocouple or gas supply. Contact Platinum Air l for assistance.
Thermostat Issues
Why Isn't My HVAC System Responding?
Signs Your Thermostat Batteries Need to Be Replaced:
- Blank Screen or Low Battery Warning
- Many thermostats display a “Low Battery” message or symbol.
- If the screen is blank or unresponsive, the batteries may be dead.
- HVAC System Isn’t Responding
- If your system doesn’t turn on or follow temperature settings, weak batteries could be the issue.
- Unusual Behavior
- Temperature readings are inaccurate.
- The thermostat resets or loses programming.
Tip: Replace thermostat batteries once a year to avoid surprises. If problems persist, it may be a wiring or system issue.
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