You know that awful feeling, right? Your furnace decides to take a vacation right in the middle of a February blizzard, or your AC just gives up the ghost during one of those surprise 90-degree days we get in the Springs. Believe me, I’ve been there, and it’s definitely not fun.
Here in Colorado Springs, we deal with some pretty unique HVAC challenges. Think about it: we’ve got altitude, those wild temperature swings, and air so dry it could seriously turn a raisin into dust! After years of helping folks with their heating and cooling woes, I’ve noticed the same problems popping up over and over again.
Here’s the cool part: you don’t always need to call a pro right away. Sometimes, it’s just a little something you can fix yourself in literally five minutes. Other times, though, yeah, you’ll definitely want to get someone who really knows their stuff involved. So, let me walk you through the most common HVAC headaches we see here in the Springs and what you can actually do about them.
Why Colorado Springs HVAC Systems Face Unique Challenges
Before we dive into fixing things, let’s chat about why our HVAC systems here work harder than most. Living at over 6,000 feet isn’t just tough on your lungs when you first get here – it’s pretty rough on your heating and cooling gear too.
See, the air up here is thinner, meaning less oxygen for your gas furnace to burn. So, your system has to really put in extra effort just to heat the same space. On top of that, our humidity often hovers around a super-low 30% – even on a good day! That dryness can really mess with everything, from your ductwork to your heat exchanger.
And don’t even get me started on our weather! We can literally go from 70 degrees and sunny to snowing in the same afternoon. Your HVAC system is constantly kicking on and off, trying to keep up, and all that starting and stopping really puts a lot of extra wear and tear on its parts.
Quick Safety Check Before You Start Troubleshooting
Alright, I’m a big fan of DIY fixes, but seriously, safety always comes first! Before you start poking around your HVAC system, please, please do this:
First off, turn off the power to your unit. Do it at both your thermostat and the circuit breaker. I can’t even tell you how many folks skip this and end up with way more headaches than they started with.
If you smell gas, do not mess around. Get out of your house right away and call the gas company immediately. Same deal if you suspect carbon monoxide – things like headaches, dizziness, or feeling sick when you’re home but better when you leave? Those are all huge red flags.
When in doubt, just call a pro. Emergency HVAC repair services are there for a reason, and trust me, it’s way better to pay for a service call than to end up in the emergency room.
Heating System Problems and Solutions
Okay, this one probably causes the most panic, especially when it’s like 10 below zero outside. But before you start frantically shopping for space heaters, let’s run through some super simple checks.
Furnace Won’t Turn On
Check Your Thermostat First
I know, I know, it sounds super obvious, but you’d be amazed how often the thermostat is the actual problem. First, make sure it’s set to ‘heat’ and the temperature is cranked up higher than what your room currently feels like. If you’ve got a programmable one, double-check it’s not stuck on some wacky schedule. And if it takes batteries, just pop in some fresh ones. Even if the display looks fine, low batteries can make it act all sorts of strange.
Power Issues
Go check your electrical panel for any tripped breakers. Your HVAC system usually has its own dedicated breaker, and sometimes they just trip for no clear reason. Give it a flip off and then back on.
Also, look for a power switch near your furnace – it often looks just like a regular light switch. Make sure it’s in the ‘on’ spot. You’d be surprised how often someone accidentally bumps that thing!
Check Your Air Filter
A totally clogged filter can actually make your furnace shut down as a safety measure. So, if you can’t even remember the last time you swapped it out, well, there’s a pretty good chance that’s your problem. Pull it out and hold it up to the light – if you can’t see any light through it, it’s definitely time for a new one.
Gas Supply Problems
If you’ve got a gas furnace and all your other gas appliances (like your stove or water heater) are working just fine, then your gas supply probably isn’t the issue. But if nothing gas-powered in your house is working, you might have a bigger supply problem that definitely needs a pro’s touch.
Furnace Runs But Doesn’t Heat Well
So, your furnace is humming along, making all the right noises, but your house still feels like an icebox. Ugh, that’s super frustrating because it seems like everything should be working, right?
Dirty Air Filter (Again)
I’m gonna keep bugging you about this, but seriously, it’s such a common problem! Even a slightly dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work way harder and heat your home less efficiently. And in our dusty Colorado climate, you might even need to change those filters more often than the manufacturer tells you to.
Blocked Vents and Registers
Take a stroll around your house and double-check that all your heating vents are wide open and not blocked. I’ve seen folks cover vents with furniture, rugs, or even close them, thinking it’ll save energy. Nope! It actually just makes your system work harder and can even damage it in the long run.
Ductwork Issues
If some rooms are super toasty while others are freezing cold, you might have some ductwork issues. Take a peek for any obvious gaps or ducts that have come apart in your crawl space or basement. You can temporarily patch small holes with duct tape (yep, that’s what it’s really for!), but anything bigger usually needs a pro to fix.
Thermostat Location Problems
If your thermostat is sitting in a really warm or cold spot – say, right by a sunny window, an exterior door, or a heat source – it might not be getting an accurate read of your home’s actual temperature. This can trick it into turning off before the rest of your house feels nice and cozy.
Strange Noises From Your Heating System
Okay, your HVAC system isn’t going to be totally silent, but some noises definitely scream ‘trouble!’ Here’s how to figure out what your system is trying to tell you.
Banging or Clanking
This usually means something’s loose or broken inside your system. Could be a wobbly belt, a failing motor mount, or even some debris caught in the blower. Turn off your system and take a peek, but seriously, don’t try to fix mechanical stuff yourself unless you really know your way around it.
Squealing or Screeching
Nine times out of ten, this is a belt issue. Belts can stretch, crack, or slip over time. Sometimes, you can spot the problem just by looking – if it’s frayed or obviously loose, it needs replacing. This is usually a pretty simple fix for a professional.
Rattling
Check your air filter first – a loose one can totally rattle around and make noise. If that’s not it, you might have some loose screws or panels on your unit. Tighten up anything you can safely get to, but be careful not to overtighten and strip those threads!
Clicking
Some clicking is totally normal – that’s usually just your system turning on and off. But constant clicking, or clicking that just won’t stop, could point to a problem with your ignition system or a failing relay.
Pilot Light and Ignition Problems
If you’re rocking an older furnace with a pilot light, that tiny flame can actually cause some big headaches. Newer systems use electronic ignition, which has its own set of quirks.
Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit
First, make absolutely sure you’re following the lighting instructions correctly – they should be printed on a label right on your furnace. If you’re doing everything by the book and it still won’t stay lit, you might have a dirty thermocouple or a gas supply problem. You can gently try cleaning the thermocouple (that little sensor sitting in the pilot flame) with some fine sandpaper. If that doesn’t do the trick, it’s definitely time to call in a pro.
Electronic Ignition Issues
Modern furnaces use electronic ignition systems, which are generally more reliable than pilot lights. But when they go bad, you usually can’t just fix them yourself. If you hear clicking but nothing lights up, or if you see any error codes pop up on your thermostat, jot down those codes and give us a call for service.
Cooling System Problems and Solutions
Just like with heating issues, start with the super basics before you hit the panic button. Colorado Springs summers can get surprisingly toasty, and the absolute last thing you want is a broken AC when it’s 95 degrees out!
Air Conditioner Won’t Turn On
Thermostat Troubleshooting
First, make sure your thermostat is set to ‘cool’ and the temperature is dialed down lower than your room’s current temp. If it takes batteries, check those. Also, double-check that the fan setting is on ‘auto’ instead of ‘off.’
Power and Breaker Issues
Go check your electrical panel for tripped breakers. AC units often have two breakers – one for the indoor part and one for the outdoor unit. Both need to be on for your system to kick into action.
There’s usually a disconnect switch near your outdoor unit that looks like a small electrical panel. Make sure it’s in the ‘on’ position.
Outdoor Unit Problems
Take a peek at your outdoor condenser unit. Is it totally clogged with dirt, leaves, or that infamous cottonwood fluff? (If you live in the Springs, you know the cottonwood situation!) A blocked condenser just can’t do its job right. Turn off the power to the unit and gently clean the outside coils with a garden hose. Seriously, don’t use a pressure washer – you could mess up those delicate fins. Try to clean from the inside out to avoid pushing debris even deeper into the coils.
AC Runs But Doesn’t Cool
This one’s almost worse than a system that won’t turn on at all, because you can hear it working, but your house still feels like a sauna!
Air Filter Problems
Yep, I’m bringing up the air filter again. A dirty filter restricts airflow, which can cause your evaporator coil to literally freeze solid. When that happens, your system just can’t pull heat out of your house like it should.
Frozen Evaporator Coil
If your indoor unit looks like an ice block, turn off your system and let it thaw out completely before you try running it again. This can take a few hours, so be patient. Once it’s thawed, check your air filter (of course!) and make sure all your vents are open. If it freezes up a second time, you’ve probably got a refrigerant leak or some other issue that needs a pro to look at.
Refrigerant Issues
Low refrigerant is a pretty common problem, but it’s not something you can fix on your own. If your system is blowing warm air and you’ve checked everything else, you likely need a professional to check your refrigerant levels and hunt for any leaks.
Outdoor Unit Airflow Problems
Your outdoor condenser needs lots of airflow to do its job right. Make sure there’s at least two feet of clear space all around the unit. Trim back any bushes or plants that might be getting in the way. Also, check that the fan in your outdoor unit is actually spinning when the system is running. If it’s not, your condenser can’t get rid of heat like it should.
Uneven Cooling Throughout Your Home
Some rooms feel perfectly cool, while others are like saunas. This is a super common problem, especially in bigger homes or houses with additions.
Ductwork and Airflow Issues
Check all your cooling vents to make sure they’re open and clear. And please, don’t close vents in unused rooms – that can actually make your system work harder and waste energy. Also, peek for any obvious ductwork problems in places you can get to, like your basement or crawl space. Ducts that are disconnected or damaged can just dump cool air where you don’t need it.
Zoning Problems
If you’ve got a zoned system with dampers in your ductwork, make sure all the zones are set up correctly. Sometimes those dampers get stuck, or someone changes settings without even realizing what they’re doing.
Insulation and Sealing Issues
Poor insulation or air leaks can make some rooms way harder to cool than others. Check for gaps around your windows, doors, and where utilities come into your home. Weather stripping and caulk are super cheap fixes that can make a huge difference.
Airflow and Ventilation Issues
If the air coming out of your vents feels more like a gentle sigh than a strong breeze, you’ve got airflow problems. This forces your system to work harder, leading to uncomfortable temps and higher energy bills.
Weak Airflow From Vents
Filter and Duct Blockages
Start with that air filter again – I know I keep saying it, but it truly is that important! A dirty filter is the number one reason for weak airflow. Also, check your return air vents. These are usually bigger vents that pull air back into your system. Make sure they’re not blocked by furniture or completely caked with dust.
Blower Motor Problems
If your filter is spotless and your vents are clear, you might have a blower motor problem. The blower is what pushes air through your ductwork, and if it’s not running at full speed, you’ll get that weak airflow. This usually needs a professional to diagnose and fix, especially if the motor is failing or if there are electrical issues.
Ductwork Design Issues
Sometimes, weak airflow just comes down to poorly designed or undersized ductwork. This is pretty common in older homes or ones with additions. Unfortunately, fixing these kinds of ductwork problems almost always needs professional help.
Indoor Air Quality Problems
Colorado’s dry climate and dusty conditions can lead to indoor air quality issues that affect both how comfy you are and how well your HVAC system works.
Excessive Dust
If you’re constantly dusting and your air filter seems to get dirty super fast, you might have leaky ductwork pulling in dust from unconditioned spaces. Take a look at any accessible ductwork for obvious gaps or holes. You could also think about upgrading to a higher-quality air filter, but be careful not to get one that’s too restrictive – those can actually reduce airflow and cause other issues.
Dry Air Issues
Our indoor humidity levels can seriously drop to desert-like levels in winter, leading to static electricity, dry skin, and even respiratory irritation. A whole-house humidifier can definitely help, but make sure your HVAC system can handle that extra load. You can also use portable humidifiers in bedrooms or living areas, just remember to keep them clean to avoid mold and bacteria.
Stale or Stuffy Air
If your home feels stuffy even with your HVAC system running, you might not be getting enough fresh air. Modern homes are built super tight for energy efficiency, but sometimes they’re too tight! You might want to consider an indoor air quality assessment to see if you need more ventilation.
Thermostat Troubles
Modern thermostats can do some pretty amazing things, but let’s be honest, they can also be confusing as heck! If your system isn’t behaving the way you expect, the problem might just be in your thermostat settings.
Programming and Settings Issues
Schedule Conflicts
If you’ve got a programmable thermostat, double-check that the schedule actually fits your life. I’ve seen folks battle their thermostat for months because it was set up for a traditional 9-to-5 worker, but they work nights or are retired! Most programmable thermostats have an override or ‘hold’ button that lets you temporarily ignore the schedule. Use this to test if the programming is actually causing your issues.
Heat Pump vs. Conventional Settings
If you have a heat pump, make sure your thermostat is specifically set up for heat pump operation. Using the wrong settings can make your backup electric heat kick on when it doesn’t need to, which will cost you a fortune on your electricity bill!
Calibration Problems
If your thermostat claims it’s 72 degrees but it feels more like 68, your thermostat might need calibrating. Some have adjustments you can make yourself, while others need a pro’s touch.
Connectivity and Smart Thermostat Issues
Smart thermostats are awesome when they work, but boy, can they be frustrating when they don’t! Here are some common issues and what you can do.
Wi-Fi Connection Problems
If your smart thermostat keeps dropping its connection, check your Wi-Fi signal strength right near the thermostat. These gadgets need a strong, steady connection to work their magic. Sometimes, the fix is as simple as restarting your router or moving it closer to your thermostat. Other times, you might need a Wi-Fi extender.
App and Software Issues
Keep your thermostat’s app updated, and make sure your thermostat’s firmware is current. Manufacturers often release updates to fix bugs and make things run better. If your app is acting wonky, try logging out and back in, or even uninstalling and reinstalling it.
Battery and Power Issues
Even smart thermostats that are hardwired usually have backup batteries. If yours is acting flaky or losing its settings, try replacing the batteries even if it’s not screaming ‘low battery!’
Electrical and Control Problems
HVAC systems pull a lot of power, and electrical problems pop up more often than you might guess. Here’s what to watch out for and what you can safely tackle yourself.
Circuit Breaker Issues
Frequent Breaker Trips
If your HVAC breaker keeps tripping, please don’t just keep resetting it. That usually means there’s a deeper problem that could even be dangerous. First, make sure nothing else is plugged into that circuit – your HVAC system should really have its own dedicated breaker. If other things are sharing that circuit, unplug them and see if the tripping stops. If the breaker still trips with only your HVAC system running, you definitely need a pro. This could signal a failing motor, an electrical short, or some other serious issue.
Partial Power Issues
Sometimes, part of your system works, but other parts don’t. For instance, your indoor fan might be humming along, but your outdoor unit stays silent, or vice versa. This often means one component isn’t getting power. Check all the relevant breakers and disconnect switches. HVAC systems usually have several electrical connections, and they all need to be working for the whole system to run right.
Control Board and Sensor Problems
Modern HVAC systems have electronic control boards that handle everything from when your furnace lights up to how fast your fan spins. When these fail, you’re usually going to need a pro.
Error Codes and Diagnostic Lights
Lots of newer furnaces and ACs have diagnostic lights or error codes that can help you figure out what’s wrong. Check your owner’s manual to see what those different light patterns or codes mean. And definitely jot down any error codes before you call for service – it can really help the technician diagnose the problem faster and might even save you a bit on diagnostic time.
Sensor and Safety Switch Issues
HVAC systems have tons of safety sensors that can shut things down if they spot problems. Sometimes these sensors just get dirty or out of whack and cause false shutdowns. For example, flame sensors in gas furnaces can get coated with soot and need a good cleaning. This is definitely something a professional should handle, but knowing about it can help you understand what’s going on with your system.
Seasonal Maintenance and Prevention
Getting your system ready for cooling season can head off a lot of problems before they even start. Here’s what you should do every spring.
Spring HVAC Preparation
Outdoor Unit Cleaning and Inspection
Clear away any debris that piled up around your outdoor unit over the winter. Check for any damage from ice, snow, or falling branches. Look for bent fins on the condenser coils – you can carefully straighten minor bends with a fin comb. Make sure the unit is sitting level and that its concrete pad hasn’t shifted or cracked. An unlevel unit can cause vibrations and wear out parts faster.
Indoor System Checks
Swap out your air filter and check your ductwork for any damage that might have happened during heating season. Look for loose connections or signs of moisture that could point to issues. Test your thermostat by switching it to cooling mode and setting it a few degrees below room temp. Just make sure your system starts up and runs smoothly.
Professional Maintenance Benefits
While you can do a lot yourself, getting annual professional maintenance is totally worth it. A good technician will check refrigerant levels, clean coils, oil up moving parts, and spot little problems before they turn into big, expensive repairs.
Fall Heating System Preparation
Getting ready for heating season is just as important as your spring prep. Colorado Springs winters can be absolutely brutal, and believe me, you do not want to be caught with a broken furnace when it’s below zero!
Furnace Inspection and Cleaning
Swap your air filter and give your furnace a good look-over for any obvious problems. Check for rust, corrosion, or any signs of moisture around your unit. If you’ve got a gas furnace, make sure the area around it is clean and free of anything flammable. And super important: check that your carbon monoxide detectors are working – this is a must-do with gas appliances!
Ductwork and Insulation Checks
Check any accessible ductwork for damage and make sure insulation hasn’t shifted or been messed with by critters. Really pay attention to ducts in unconditioned spaces like crawl spaces or attics. Check the sealing around duct connections and patch any obvious leaks with proper duct sealant or metal tape (not that flimsy cloth duct tape – it won’t last!).
Testing and Safety Checks
Test your heating system before you actually need it. Switch your thermostat to heat mode and make sure everything fires up correctly. Listen for any weird noises and check that all your vents are blowing warm air. You might also consider getting a carbon monoxide safety inspection done, especially if your equipment is older or if you’ve noticed it acting differently.
When to Call a Professional
Look, I’m all about DIY troubleshooting, but some problems just scream ‘professional help needed!’ Here are the big red flags that mean it’s definitely time to call in the pros.
Signs You Need Expert Help
Safety Concerns
Any time you smell gas, suspect carbon monoxide, or see signs of electrical problems, stop everything and call for help. Your safety is way, way more important than the cost of a service call. If you spot rust or corrosion around your heat exchanger, or if your furnace flame is yellow instead of that nice blue, these could mean dangerous conditions that need immediate professional attention.
Complex Electrical Issues
While you can safely check breakers and swap out thermostat batteries, anything more complicated should really be left to the pros. HVAC electrical systems run on high voltages and currents that can be seriously dangerous.
Refrigerant Problems
Anything to do with refrigerant needs special tools, training, and certification. Please don’t try to add refrigerant yourself or attempt to fix refrigerant leaks. You could damage your system or even break environmental rules.
Mechanical Repairs
If you’ve figured out you need new parts like motors, compressors, or heat exchangers, these repairs really need professional know-how. The labor might cost more than the parts themselves, but getting them installed just right is super important for safety and performance.
Choosing the Right HVAC Contractor
When you do need professional help, picking the right contractor can make all the difference in getting good quality work at a fair price.
Licensing and Insurance Verification
Make sure any contractor you hire is properly licensed and insured. Here in Colorado, HVAC pros need specific licenses, and you can usually check those online. Definitely don’t work with anyone who can’t show you proof of insurance.
Experience with Local Conditions
Colorado Springs has its own unique challenges, and you really want a contractor who gets them. Ask about their experience with high-altitude installations and our weird climate. Here at Accurate Air Control, our techs have tons of experience dealing with Colorado Springs’ specific HVAC challenges. We totally get how altitude affects how your system runs and how our dry climate impacts how long your equipment lasts.
Transparent Pricing and Warranties
Good contractors will give you clear, written estimates and stand behind their work with solid warranties. Be a little wary of anyone who asks for payment upfront or pushes you to make instant decisions.
Emergency Service Availability
HVAC emergencies never happen when it’s convenient! Make sure your contractor offers emergency services for when you really need them. Having a reliable emergency contact can seriously save you from a miserable night when your heat decides to quit in January.
Cost-Effective Solutions and Energy Efficiency
Sometimes you’re faced with a big choice: fix your current system or just replace it entirely? That can be a tough call, but here are some pointers to help you decide.
Simple Fixes That Save Money
Before you even think about shopping for a brand-new HVAC system, try these budget-friendly fixes that can make your current one run better and more efficiently.
Air Sealing and Insulation
Sealing up air leaks around windows, doors, and any openings can really boost your HVAC system’s efficiency. Grab some weatherstripping, caulk, and foam sealers to stop that conditioned air from sneaking out. Adding insulation to your attic or crawl space might just be one of the smartest investments you can make. Good insulation lightens the load on your HVAC system and can seriously cut down your energy bills.
Programmable Thermostat Upgrades
If you’re still using an old-school manual thermostat, upgrading to a programmable or smart one can actually save you a good 10-15% on your energy bills. The trick is to actually use the programming features to match your schedule. Smart thermostats can even learn your habits and adjust on their own, plus many utility companies offer rebates that can help cover the cost.
Regular Maintenance Benefits
Keeping up with basic maintenance like filter changes and annual tune-ups can save you from expensive repairs and keep your system running smoothly. A well-cared-for system uses less energy and sticks around longer.
Understanding Repair vs. Replacement Decisions
Age and Efficiency Considerations
If your system is over 15 years old and needs some major repairs, replacing it might just make more sense than fixing it. Newer systems are way more efficient and can save you enough on energy bills to cover the purchase price over time. Think about the total cost of owning it, not just the repair bill today. An old system that keeps needing repairs could easily end up costing you more in the long run than a new, dependable one.
Repair Cost Guidelines
A common rule of thumb is the ‘50% rule’ – if fixing it costs more than half of what a new system would, and your system is over 10 years old, replacing it is usually the smarter move. For more help making this decision, check out our detailed comparison of HVAC replacement vs repair options.
Financing and Payment Options
Don’t let upfront costs stop you from making the best decision for your home. Lots of contractors offer financing options that can make getting a new system totally affordable with easy monthly payments. We even offer various HVAC financing options and payment plans to help those necessary repairs or replacements fit right into your budget.
Final Thoughts and Next Steps
Living in Colorado Springs definitely throws some unique HVAC challenges our way, but the good news is, most problems have a fix! The main thing is knowing when you can roll up your sleeves and handle something yourself, and when it’s time to call in the pros.
Always start with the simple stuff – check your air filter, peek at your thermostat settings, and make sure your system has power. You’d be amazed how often these basic checks are all it takes to solve the problem!
But don’t ever hesitate to call for help when you need it. HVAC systems are pretty complex, and some problems can even be dangerous if they’re not handled right. A good contractor will be straight with you about what you can do yourself and what really needs a professional touch.
And remember, preventing problems is always cheaper than fixing them. Regular maintenance, those filter changes, and seasonal prep can stop most of the issues we’ve talked about. Take good care of your system, and it’ll take good care of you!
If you’re facing HVAC problems that are just beyond basic troubleshooting, or if you simply want professional maintenance to prevent future headaches, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Here at Accurate Air Control, we’ve been helping Colorado Springs residents stay comfy for ages, and we totally get the unique challenges our climate throws at your system.
You can give us a call at (719) 440-6977 for emergency repairs or routine maintenance. We’re always here to help keep your home comfortable year-round, whether you’re battling a January blizzard or an unexpected summer heat wave.
Stay comfy out there, and remember – when in doubt, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your HVAC system!
