How to Create an HVAC Diagnostic Checklist

HVAC unit on concrete

HVAC diagnostic checklists are vital to keep the system working efficiently and to avoid unnecessary maintenance. When these routine checks are performed by a professional, many different factors will be considered. The thermostat function, AC refrigerants, drain blockages, and examining the heat exchanger are just some of the important steps that take place in an HVAC check. 

What is Included in an HVAC Diagnostic Checklist? 

HVAC diagnostic tests are included in regular maintenance done by a professional every year. It is important to have a trained professional perform diagnostic tests, even if you think your HVAC is running properly, to identify any underlying issues and check on the old parts to ensure they are running smoothly.

Common Issues 

In order to maintain your HVAC, it is important to keep your air filters clean. When dirty filters are not replaced or cleaned when they need to be, the debris in the filters will minimize the airflow and run not as efficiently for a longer amount of time. This can cause an HVAC to overheat if not treated.

HVAC maintenance

Broken heating is a common issue with the HVAC. If the thermostat is not functioning properly, the home likely isn’t reaching the desired temperature it is being set to. If you get an HVAC diagnostic check, this issue can be resolved sooner than later. A lot of the time, a blow motor circulates warm air throughout a home but can become damaged due to blockages. The HVAC will have a small light lit up if the motor is running, but the light will be off if it is not running. An HVAC diagnostic test would help identify this issue to prevent it from happening when you need the heat to work.

Another common issue is broken AC. Refrigerants help remove heat inside a home. When the refrigerant container is leaking and the levels become low, the AC will not run properly. An HVAC diagnostic test will help diagnose this issue and if the container needs to be replaced. If this happens, the AC will circulate cool air throughout the home, which is especially bad if the weather is unbearably hot.

Step-by-Step HVAC Diagnostic Instructions

It is necessary to run HVAC service diagnosis tests in both the spring and in the fall to keep the HVAC system running efficiently and like new. HVAC diagnostic tests include many important steps to check that it is functioning properly. To start, the thermostat will be examined. All parts of the motor will be lubricated so there is no friction and the system controls will be checked to ensure it starts, runs, and stops properly.

Next, all the electrical connections will be tightened so the lifespan of the HVAC is extended and it is safe to use. The voltage and the current on the motors will be checked and the drains will be checked for blockages. If a drain is blocked on a furnace, air conditioner or heat pump can result in extra humidity or the possibility of a backup in water that can damage a home.

The blower will be cleaned, lubricated, and adjusted. By doing these things, any airflow issues will be eliminated and the HVAC system will run more efficiently. The refrigerant level in the cooling system will be checked as well to ensure it is running efficiently. The fuel lines on the furnace will be checked to prevent any gas leaks or fire risks. 

One of the most important HVAC tech tips is to check the gas pressure and burner combustion and examine the heat exchanger so there are no cracks and carbon monoxide is not released. The release of carbon monoxide could be deadly. Lastly, the air filter will be cleaned or replaced to help maintain the efficiency of the HVAC.

How to Get the Right HVAC Diagnostic Software

Setting thermostat

In order to receive a proper HVAC diagnostic check, you will need the right HVAC diagnostic software. P3 HVAC Software can help your business demonstrate value and present a professional recommendation on every diagnostic. 

P3 makes it simple for a technician to document their work and present it to a homeowner in a way that they will understand. Your customers will appreciate you for this reason and likely will tell their friends about the great job they received from your business. Tell us what is important to you and we can help address your needs. If you are interested in helping your customers understand HVAC diagnostic checklists, schedule a demo today!

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