5 Things to Check Before Calling an HVAC Tech

5 Things to Check Before Calling an HVAC Tech

Take a breath before you reach for the phone and imagine Jason rolling up like a hometown hero. You can fix the problem yourself with one of these simple steps. Each one can save you time, money, and maybe even a little sweat, because let’s face it, the Texas heat doesn’t wait around.

1. Make Sure Your Thermostat Is Set Correctly

Sometimes, the most minor oversight is the culprit. Check to see if your thermostat is set to “cool” and not “off” or “heat.”

Make sure the temperature setting is below the room temperature. It’s easy to forget, especially when seasons change or someone else fiddles with the settings. If your screen is blank, your thermostat might need new batteries or be turned off entirely.

2. Replace Your Air Filter

A dirty filter can slow your system down quickly. Think of it like trying to breathe through a pillow. If it’s been more than a month since your last filter change, or if you’ve got pets, allergies, or lots of dust—swap it out. Clean filters help your HVAC unit move air properly, keep things energy-efficient, and make your home feel cooler faster.

3. Check Your Circuit Breaker

Your HVAC system needs electricity to run, and sometimes, a flipped breaker can be the root of the issue. Go to your breaker panel and look for the switch labeled “AC” or “HVAC.”

If it’s in the middle or off position, flip it off and back on. Wait a few minutes to see if your system restarts. If it trips again immediately, there could be a larger electrical issue, time to call Jason’s Airtex.

4. Inspect the Outdoor Unit

Your condenser (the big metal box outside) needs room to do its job. Walk out and take a quick look. Is it covered in leaves? Has it been surrounded by overgrown plants or buried under patio furniture?

You want at least two feet of clear space around the unit. Also, listening for strange noises; grinding, rattling, or silence- when it should be humming can all be clues.

5. Test the Air Coming from the Vents

Feel the air blowing out of the vents. Is it cold? Is there a strong flow? If it’s weak or warm, write down the details.

Is the system running but not cooling? Are some rooms cooler than others? Giving your HVAC tech this information can help them pinpoint the issue faster, which means you’ll be back in chill mode sooner.

Bonus Tip: Take a Quick Look at the Drain Line. Some units have a safety switch that shuts the system down if the drain line clogs. Look near your indoor unit (often in the attic or utility closet) for a PVC pipe with water coming out or pooling nearby. If it’s clogged, you can try gently using a wet/dry vacuum to clear it. If that doesn’t work, it’s time to tag in the pros.

If These Fixes Don’t Work, We’ve Got You Covered. After going through this checklist, if your house still feels like a sauna, don’t worry. You’ve already done the right thing by checking the basics. Now let Jason’s Airtex step in with fast, friendly, local service you can trust. We’re here when you need us, just a call away, ready to beat the heat and save the day.

Stay cool out there. Jason’s got this.