Why is my AC not cooling?
If outdoor unit is not running, check the following items;
- First verify the thermostat is calling for cooling.
- System should be set to cool, desired set point must be lower than indoor temperature.
- Many thermostats have a built in delay that may take 5 minutes before the outdoor condenser starts.
- Check breaker in main panel.
- Check fuses in disconnect (if equipped), use heavy duty, time delay style.
- Make sure system is not in off-peak, or saver mode.
- CALL (763) 754-4000 FOR SERVICE (Andover, Anoka, Blaine, Coon Rapids, Ramsey and most cities in the 7 county Minneapolis metro area)
If system is running, check the following items;
- Make sure filter is clean and not restricting airflow.
- Make sure registers and dampers are open.
- Is there frost on the copper lines or indoor coil? If so, turn thermostat to fan-on, system to off to thaw coil.
- CALL (763) 754-4000 FOR SERVICE (Andover, Anoka, Blaine, Coon Rapids, Ramsey and most cities in the 7 county Minneapolis metro area)
Should I cover my AC condenser during the winter months?
No, we do not recommend covering your outdoor condenser. The units are built to withstand the elements outdoors. In fact, we tend to see more problems in the spring with units that had covers or tarps on them through the winter months. Mice and rodents often build nests under the cover inside the units and can cause major damage to wires and electrical components. Covers also tend to cause condensation and trap moisture on components for an extended period of time which can lead to premature failures.
If the unit is located where there is potential for large chunks of ice or snow to fall on it, we recommend placing a piece of plywood over the top to protect the motor, grille, and fan blade from being damaged.
What percent humidity should be in my home?
Normal range for homes built in our climate is 30%-60% RH(Relative Humidity) depending on the season. Values lower and higher than the specified range are occasionally going to happen, and are nothing to be concerned about unless it is for extended periods of time.
As a general rule, the lower the outside temperature the lower the indoor humidity needs to be to avoid excess frost and condensation on windows. On extremely cold days in the winter it is not uncommon to have indoor RH around 20%.
Often people become obsessed trying to achieve a constant number, we urge our customers instead to gauge this by personal comfort and observing what is happening in the home (swelling or separating of wood floors, frost on windows, static shocks, nose bleeds…).
If your home is too dry in the winter;
- Install a humidifier
- Run the air exchanger at a lower speed
- Seal any drafts or leaks
If your home is too humid in the summer;
- Install a dehumidifier
- Have your air conditioner checked.
- Decrease mechanical ventilation during extreme heat.
Should I run my furnace fan in the “on” or “auto” setting?
We have always been an advocate for setting the furnace fan to constant “on”. When set to “auto” the fan only comes on when the thermostat calls for heat or cool. Yes, it may cost a little more in electricity but the benefits are as follows;
- More comfortable. Less temperature stratification in the home, especially noticeable with multiple level homes.
- Better air quality. The air is being filtered 24 hours a day instead of only when there is a call for cooling or heat.
- Better control of humidity, many automatic controls sense levels better when the air is moving versus being stagnant.
- Less dust on flat surfaces. Keep the particles in the air moving to get to the filter instead of settling on furniture and floors.
At a minimum, try running the fan continuous during the spring and fall when outside temperatures are mild and there is not many heat or cool calls from the thermostat.
What maintenance should be done on my HVAC equipment?
All of the HVAC equipment in your home requires periodic maintenance to ensure it’s operating to its full design potential and maximize the life span. We recommend all of our customers to enroll in a maintenance program or at a minimum follow the guidelines in the owners manual for each piece you have installed.
- Replace/clean filters on a regular schedule.
- Clean the outside condenser coil once per year.
- Replace and clean humidifier panels.
- Check and clean exhaust and intake vents on exterior of house.
- Clean/replace HRV/ERV filters as needed.
- Schedule a professional from Riccar to check proper equipment operation.
Why is there water under my furnace?
If system is in cooling mode, here are some possible causes;
- Coil pan is overflowing due to obstructed drain. Try blowing out.
- Filter is dirty causing coil to freeze up. Change filter.
- Coil pan may be cracked or rusted.
- Condensate pump (if equipped) blocked, failed, or unplugged.
- CALL (763) 754-4000 FOR SERVICE (Andover, Anoka, Blaine, Coon Rapids, Ramsey and most cities in the 7 county Minneapolis metro area)
If system is in heating mode, here are some possible causes;
- Plugged drain line from condensing furnace.
- Cracked drain trap in furnace.
- Loose PVC fitting.
- CALL (763) 754-4000 FOR SERVICE (Andover, Anoka, Blaine, Coon Rapids, Ramsey and most cities in the 7 county Minneapolis metro area)
Other possible sources;
- Water softener discharge line overspray.
- Water heater leak, pressure relief, or drain issue.
- Floor drain plugged or backed up.
Why is my furnace not heating?
If furnace is not running, check the following items;
- First verify the thermostat is calling for heat.
- Make sure the switch on the side of the furnace is on.
- Look thru sight glass on door to see fault code (number of blinks or LCD display)
- Check outside vent termination for obstructions (snow, ice, birds, etc.)
- CALL (763) 754-4000 FOR SERVICE (Andover, Anoka, Blaine, Coon Rapids, Ramsey and most cities in the 7 county Minneapolis metro area)
If furnace is running, but not heating check the following items;
- Gas valve is in the on position.
- Check outside vent termination for obstructions (snow, ice, birds, etc.)
- Look thru sight glass on door to see fault code (number of blinks or LCD display)
- CALL (763) 754-4000 FOR SERVICE (Andover, Anoka, Blaine, Coon Rapids, Ramsey and most cities in the 7 county Minneapolis metro area)
How often should I change my filter?
Every house is different. If you have indoor pets, run the fan continuously or during times of extreme heat or cold, the filter is going to need to be changed more frequently. Here is a rough guideline based on style and thickness.
Furnace Filters
- Standard 1″ poly fiber or fiberglass - up to 30 days
- 1″ 24 volt Dynamic media-up to 90 days (check every 30)
- 2″ pleated - up to 90 days (check every 45)
- 4″ pleated - up to 90 days (check every 45)
- 5″ media - up to 6 months (some claim 1 year) check at 3 months
- Honeywell Electronic - Clean every 30-45 days
- Breathe Clean UV bulbs - replace bulbs every 12 months
Humidifier Filters
Humidifier pads (Water Panel) - change once per year minimum depending on water quality.
Air Exchanger Filters
HRV/ERV- wash foam filters twice per year, core once per year.
HRV Maintenance Guide (Venmar/Vanee/Broan)
