4 Simple HVAC Repairs You Can Complete in a Weekend

by Lori Madden 03/17/2024

When your HVAC system isn't working correctly, you don't necessarily have to call in the professionals right away. Before making the call, there are some steps to try on your own, which might provide an easy solution to some common issues. Keep the following simple DIY HVAC repairs in mind if your heating or cooling system is giving you trouble.

Check air filters

If you experience HVAC problems, first check your air filters. When these filters are clogged or covered in debris and dust, it can affect your HVAC system's performance and efficiency. If your air filters are dirty, replace them with new filters. Your HVAC system should work better with clean air filters. If not, call an HVAC company.

Keep in mind your air filters should be changed every few months to reduce the risk of HVAC problems. You might need to check and change them more often, such as each month, if you have pets.

Check the thermostat

If your HVAC system isn't coming on as it should or if it's blowing only warm or cool air when it shouldn't, check your thermostat. You might need to replace old batteries in your thermostat to get your HVAC system working right again.

Also, check the settings on your thermostat to make sure it's not turned off or set to have the fan blowing only. Adjusting your thermostat settings might be all that's needed to fix HVAC problems.

Clean the outdoor unit

The outdoor unit of your HVAC system might need to be cleaned to work properly. Shut off power to this unit before doing any cleaning. When the power is off, remove the cover and clean the condenser fins and fan blades carefully.

If your HVAC system still isn't working, have HVAC technicians inspect it for damage. Also, have professional HVAC technicians clean your outdoor unit if you're not comfortable doing it on your own.

Check your circuit breaker

If your HVAC system isn't running, check the circuit breaker. A tripped breaker could be the cause of this HVAC problem. Resetting the breaker might solve this HVAC issue, but you might need professional repairs done if the circuit breaker keeps tripping when your heating or cooling system tries to run.

About the Author

Lori Madden

As a Florida native growing up in Sarasota, I have seen my hometown grow from a sleepy coastal town to a highly sought-after destination along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. After working in Chicago for 5 years, I returned to Sarasota and saw it through a new lens and really began to appreciate what makes Sarasota so desirable, including temperatures that allow for year round outdoor activities including tennis (a personal favorite), golf, boating, kayaking, fishing, paddle boarding, or just relaxing and/or shelling on our pristine sandy shores, including Dr. Beach’s #1 beach in the United States for 2017, Siesta Key! Sarasota’s cultural amenities are many and diverse, appealing to a wide range of arts lovers. Downtown Sarasota has become a destination in itself, drawing many new developments for those who want to be within walking distance of Main Street's offerings and the picturesque bayfront and marina. Foodies will find an eclectic mix of locally owned and operated restaurants offering something for everyone, and there are now Farmers Markets every day of the week in various locations throughout Sarasota, but the Saturday morning Farmers Market in downtown Sarasota draws the biggest crowds. Since 1988, my passion has been selling real estate, representing both buyers and sellers. I have been recognized by my clients and customers for an uncompromising work ethic and dedication to helping them achieve their real estate goals. Relying on my experience as a real estate paralegal and being highly organized, I am able to help make the transition between contract and closing a smooth one for my clients. With an eye for interior and landscape design, I've been known to pitch in and help Sellers minimize and/or reorganize their belongings in order to stage their home to maximize its sale potential. I specialize in out of state buyers looking for their piece of paradise along the Gulf Coast and make it a priority to keep them up to date on our quickly changing local real estate market. I welcome the opportunity to share with you all Sarasota and her surrounding islands have to offer!