Some Do-It-Yourself HVAC Maintenance Tips

Keep Your HVAC System Running Its Best

If you notice any HVAC issues with your home comfort system's performance, there are a few common things to look for before contacting your contractor. If any issues persist, please contact your Champion® Contractor for service and have all related model numbers ready.

Air Conditioner Troubleshooting

If your air conditioner isn't working properly, here are a few questions to ask yourself and common issues that could be causing your problem.

Thermostat icon

IS YOUR THERMOSTAT SET?

  • Make sure your thermostat is set in the cool position (or heat, for winter heat pump operation).
  • If it is, confirm that your outdoor air conditioner or heat pump is running.

Power icon

IS THE POWER ON?

  • See if your circuit breaker has been tripped to the OFF position.
  • Confirm the outdoor disconnect switch on your outdoor unit is in the ON position.
  • You can usually find the disconnect switch mounted on a wall near the outdoor unit. It's typically a small, gray metal box.
  • Make sure the blower motor in your furnace or air handler is running when your thermostat is turned on. 
  • Check that the furnace switch is in the ON position.

Airflow icon

IS THERE PROPER AIRFLOW?

  • See if your air filter is dirty, and change it if it is with the same size.
  • A blocked filter can cause your unit to shut down due to improper airflow.
  • Make sure air registers (supply or return ducts) are clear.

Gas Furnace Troubleshooting

If your gas furnace isn't working properly, here are a few questions to ask yourself and common issues that could be causing your problem.

Gears icon

IS YOUR THERMOSTAT SET?

  •  Make sure your thermostat is set to the heat position.
  • Confirm that the temperature setting on the thermostat is set higher than the thermostat's indoor temperature.

Fan icon

IS THE POWER ON?

  • Make sure the power is turned on for your furnace.
  • Turn the fan to ON at your thermostat. The fan should run when power is being supplied to the furnace.
  • See if the circuit breakers in the circuit breaker box (or electrical panel) tripped to the OFF position.
  • Check the SSU light switch on the gray box located at the furnace to make sure it is in the ON position.

Filter icon

IS THERE PROPER AIRFLOW?

  • See if your air filter is dirty, and change it if it is.
  • A blocked filter can cause your unit to shut down.
  • Make sure air registers (supply or return ducts) are clear.

More Resources

Repair or Replace
Struggling with the decision? Weigh the pros and cons to make the best choice for your home comfort and budget.
Home HVAC Care
Helpful tips for inspecting your own home comfort system – including indoor air quality (IAQ) equipment, air handlers, air conditioner/heat pumps and furnaces. 
Preparing for an HVAC Service Call
You can help your Champion® Certified Comfort Expert™ Contractor make maintenance visits fast and productive. Here you'll find tips on what to check and prepare before your contractor visits. 

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