Principles Of HVAC Problem-Solving

Problem-solving skills are a must-have for anyone working in the HVAC field. When we talk about problem-solving, we mean the ability to logically determine the real cause of a problem from its symptoms. Simply doing a “quick fix” that makes the symptoms of a problem go away temporarily isn’t enough. A good technician needs to take a systematic approach that gets at the underlying causes of the problem and produces a safe, long-lasting solution. These problem-solving skills are a key part of any good HVAC technician training program, like the one offered at ETI. If you’re considering HVAC as a career path, keep reading to learn about how HVAC techs find the cause of problems and some of the most common issues that they deal with on the job.

HVAC School: The HVAC Diagnostic Process

Diagnosing HVAC issues requires a detective-like mindset, where the HVAC technician makes initial observations and tests a hypothesis to identify the problem. The systematic approach involves:

  • Customer interview: The first thing to do is ask the customer questions about their experiences. Inquire about any unusual noises, poor airflow, uneven temperatures, or total system failure.
  • Inspection: A technician checks the thermostat for proper settings and function and examines the entire system from a visual standpoint for any obvious signs of damage (debris or leaks).
  • Airflow test: The technician will also check the air filters (as a clogged filter is one of the most common causes for low airflow and system inefficiency) and will also check that the vents and registers are open and unobstructed.
  • Electrical tests: A technician will test the voltage, amperage, and resistance of all electrical components in the system with a multimeter. The most common causes of problems are a failing capacitor, a faulty contactor, or an old tripped circuit breaker.

HVAC School: Common HVAC problems

Some typical heating and air conditioning issues include:

  • Dirty air filters: Clogged filters restrict airflow, forcing the system to function ineffectively.
  • Refrigerant leaks: If the air conditioner is not cooling properly, then it might not be getting enough refrigerant because of a leak. 
  • Electrical failures: Poor wiring and old capacitors can cause system failure.
  • Thermostat malfunctions: A faulty thermostat can cause a system to run too many cycles or not turn on at all.
  • Clogged condensate drains: This is very common during the cooling season when a blockage can cause water to back up in the drain and damage the indoor unit itself or the surrounding property.

Starting a Career in HVAC

 

After getting a high school diploma or GED, you should attend a specific HVAC training program at an established school like ETI. The course at ETI will give you hands-on experience with up-to-date equipment. Our experienced instructors will share their knowledge on sheet metal fabrication, electrical work, conduit bending, gas piping, refrigeration, and diagnosing common HVAC failures. You can complete your training and be ready to start applying for jobs in as little as seven months. Start your journey by enrolling in the ETI HVAC program today!

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