1.) Thermostat – Check for loose connections that may cause unit short cycling. If possible, check or calibrate temperature readings.
2.) Split Temperature – Measure temp drop as air passes through evaporative coil. Ideal temperature drop should be approximately 20 degrees.
3.) Air Filter – Inspect air filter. Look for debris that could be restricting airflow in return. Try to inspect the face of indoor coil.
4.) Air Distribution – Ask customer how air flow is throughout the home. If airflow is restricted, examine supply and return ductwork plus plentum.
5.) Air Ducts – Make sure air ducts are clean and free of growth. Look for signs that may indicate leaks in ducts. (Cold air in attic or insulation in ducts).
6.) Disconnect Box – Make sure all connections are tight. Look for signs of metal fatigue or signs of overheating (Bluish-Green). Replace if Necessary.
7.) Fuses – Check on fuse condition. If fuse is swollen or bad, check disconnect box for loose connection or leaks that may be permitting water inside.
8.) Contactors – Check switch for worn or pitted points. Check part for possible discoloration or burnt wires. Replace part if worn.
9.) Start Kit/Relays/Transformers – Inspect all parts for loose wiring or worn out parts, and ensure parts are securely mounted.
10.) Run Capacitors – Check microfarads on all caps. Recommend replacement if they are not within 10%. Check for oil leaks or voltage drop. Replace if bad.
11.) Compressor – Check starting AMP draw along with running AMPS. Compare to unit ratings. Look for burnt wires at compressor terminal.
12.) Freon – Check system pressures to ensure proper charge on unit. If the system needs more than 2 lbs. Freon will not be added until leak is found and repaired.
13.) Condenser Motor – Check AMP draw against max ratings. If needed, oil motor. Check for loose bearings or damaged fan blade.
14.) Condenser Coil – Check temperature split on coil. Should be approximately 30 degrees. Ensure coil is clean of debris and fins are not damaged.
15.) Blower Motor – Check AMP draw against max ratings. If needed, oil motor. Check to ensure blower wheel is clean and free of bacteria build-up.
16.) Evaporative Coil – Check and make sure BOTH sides of coil are clean. Dirty coils cause poor system performance and early breakdown. Also poor IAQ.
17.) Condensate Drain – Make sure drain is free of debris and bacteria growth. Check PVC for loose or cracked parts. Look for overflow signs (Rust).
18.) Plenum – Make sure plenum (Elbow) is sealed correctly and that no air is escaping to the outside. 8 out of 10 elbows leak, usually underneath.
19.) Insulation – Check the insulation by blower to make sure it can't be sucked in. Check tubing on suction line. Worn insulation effects system efficiency.
20.) Safety Controls – Check to make sure that the oil safety and high-pressure controls are functioning. Be sure that no one has disconnected them.
1.) Thermostat – Check that anticipator and ensure it is properly set. Adjust if needed. If possible, also check or calibrate temperature readings.
2.) Air Filter – Inspect air filter. Look for debris that could be restricting airflow in return. Try to inspect the face of indoor coil.
3.) Blower Motor – Check motor amperage and compare it to motor ratings. If needed, oil motor. Check to ensure of proper motor speed.
4.) Run Capacitor – Check micro farads. Recommend replacement if it is not within 10%. Check for oil leaks or voltage drop. Replace if leaking or bad.
5.) Heat Anticipator – Ensure thermostat is properly set. If not, set anticipator to proper amperage. Wrong settings = short cycling.
6.) Thermocouple - Ensure the thermocouple is in its proper position. Look for signs of deterioration or crystals that may be starting to develop.
7.) Burners – Check for a solid blue flame. If orange or yellow flame appears look for cracked heat exchanger, dirty burners, or poor exhaust flow.
8.) Heat Exchanger – Examine heat exchanger for cracks or signs of stress or fatigue. Shut down unit if you suspect that there may be a problem.
9.) Gas Lines - Inspect all gas lines for possible leaks. Use soap and bubbles and check commonly known areas where leaks often do occur.
10.) Temperature Rise – Determine change on temp. between supply and return air. Check this with the allowable rise listed on the units rating plate.
11.) Safety Controls – Check door safety switch and sequence of safety operations. Also check on all other auxiliary safety devices.
12.) Indoor Coil – Check indoor coil to make sure it is not restricting air flow. Check for possible leaks that may decrease systems performance.
13.) Drafting – Ensure of proper flame. Look for signs of rust or blockage. If signs exist, look to see if the flue needs to be cleaned or replaced.
14.) Limit Switches & Fan Control – Check fan control for proper cut-in and cut-out. Disconnect the power to blower and test upper limit switch.
15.) Pilot / Ignition System – Check for flame quality and roll out. Look for hard ignition or any signs of delayed ignition. Check warm up time.
16.) Ductwork – Check both the supply and return air ducts cleanliness. If in attic, check to see if any air ducts have collapsed or separated.
17.) Heat Strips – Check sequencers, fan control, safety controls, limit switches, and element connections. Check amperages throughout.
18.) Crank Case Heater – Use AMP probe to ensure the crank case heater is functioning. If it is not, oil may foam and reduce compressor viscosity.
19.) Defrost Controls – Try to send unit into defrost to check its function. Inform occupants of what they can expect during defrost.
20.) Split Temperature – Take split temp to measure efficiency. Poor split temps indicate bad strips, dirty filter, or blocked coil.