AC Maintenance Checklist for Homeowners
If your air conditioning is controlled by an AC zone control system but your AC or heating isn’t working in select zones, you might have an issue with your zone panel or zone board. That’s exactly the AC repair this Summerville, SC client contacted us about. In this blog, we will explore the options available for solving inconsistent cooling, the benefits of repairing or replacing the zone panel, the zone board repair process, and the benefits of choosing Fix-it 24/7 for your Summerville, SC AC repair.
AC Repair Options
The two most common options available for addressing a broken zone panel are repair and replacement. Repairing the existing zone panel can often restore its functionality and resolve the customer’s pain points. If the existing zone panel or air conditioner is old or in poor condition, upgrading to a smart zoning system may be a viable solution offering advanced control features and improved efficiency.
HVAC zone control systems have a couple of common repairs. The first being zone dampers which go bad, and the other being an electrical issue with the zone board. This Summerville, SC client was having issues with their zone board, a repair that Fix-it 24/7 is more than capable of handling.
Signs You Need AC Zone Panel Repairs
There are several signs that indicate you may need AC repair for your zone control system. If you notice any of the following issues, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance from the HVAC experts at Fix-it 24/7.
- Inability to control the temperature
- Uneven cooling or heating
- Dependency on manual adjustments
- Limited system functionality
If you experience any of these signs or suspect there may be a problem with your AC zone panel, contact the HVAC experts at Fix-it 24/7. We will diagnose the issue accurately and provide the necessary repairs to ensure your AC zone panel operates efficiently and effectively.
Benefits of a Repaired AC Zone Panel
By repairing or replacing the zone panel with Fix-It 24/7, homeowners can resume benefitting from several key HVAC zone control system features.
- Optimal Airflow and Temperature Distribution: Modern zone panels optimize airflow and temperature distribution throughout your home. They are highly efficient because the air conditioner delivers air only to occupied areas.
- Increased Customization: Upgrading to a new zone panel may provide the option to add more zones to your existing system. This allows for greater customization of temperature control throughout your home, accommodating changes in living spaces or individual preferences.
- Energy Efficiency: Repairing or replacing your zone panel can lead to increased energy efficiency. By precisely controlling the temperature in each zone, you can minimize energy consumption and reduce utility costs.
- Enhanced Comfort and Convenience: A functioning zone panel ensures even cooling and temperature control throughout your home, eliminating hot and cold spots. This leads to enhanced comfort and convenience for you and your family.
- Improved System Performance: By repairing or replacing your zone panel, you can restore or enhance the overall performance of your AC unit. This leads to improved cooling efficiency, reduced system strain, and reliable operation.
Summerville AC Repair Process
After carefully assessing the severity and interconnected nature of the identified issues, Fix-it 24/7 advised this Summerville, SC client to repair their AC zone panel. Our experienced HVAC technicians promptly communicated the situation to the customer, providing a detailed explanation of the required repairs and the anticipated timeline for completion. By addressing these issues, we aim to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the client’s AC zone panel.
Turn Off Power
The first step in any HVAC repair before beginning any repair work, a Fix-It 24/7 technician will ensure the power to the AC unit is turned off. This can typically be done by switching off the circuit breaker dedicated to the HVAC system.
Identify and Inspect Components
The first thing an expert HVAC technician at Fix-it 24/7 takes is a close look at the components of the zone panel. They verify wiring, electrical connections, and the circuit board. They look for signs of damage such as burnt wires, loose connections, or any visibly damaged parts.
When an AC zone panel breaks, it is often times due to a short from a “hot” wire touching a ground-wire or a spike in voltage.
Disconnect Wires
Fix-it 24/7’s licensed HVAC technician starts by disconnecting the main power source by removing the wires connected to the zone panel. Using caution, they ensure the wires are not touching any metal surfaces or other wires. They test the voltage of the wires to make sure the system is powered off.
Connecting Thermostat
After the power is turned off and the system is safe to work on, the thermostat is wired to the AC zone panel. This is so the thermostat can tell the unit what temperature the home is requesting so the panel can get the house to the right temperature.
Remove Static Pressure Sensors
Two sensors are involved: discharge and return air. The discharge sensor measures the air temperature exiting the unit, allowing for proper regulation. The return sensor detects the indoor air temperature, providing valuable information to the unit. In some cases, a return sensor may be unnecessary if the thermostat provides accurate readings. However, an inadequately insulated attic can affect return air temperature and accuracy. This unit required both a return sensor and thermostat input for improved accuracy due to the well-insulated attic.
Reconnect Wires
The technician will begin to connect the main power source wires to the appropriate terminals on the zone panel. They will ensure each wire is securely fastened and properly matched to the correct terminal. Starting with the discharge and return air sensors, then the thermostat wires for the AC zone control dampers, and then finally the AC condenser wire.
The wiring is zip tied to keep it neat. If the wiring moves around, it can touch which causes an electrical short and subsequently a breakdown.
Flood Switch Installation
Also known as a “flip switch”, this is wired up to the AC zone panel so that it can send error data to the thermostat. The flood switch monitors if the AC unit is flooding and is a failsafe to prevent further issues.
Perform a Function Test
Once all the wiring was connected, Fix-it 24/7’s expert HVAC technician turns the power back on to the AC unit. We ensure that the CDA, the brain to the unit and what controls functionality, is communicating data. We then perform a function test to ensure the AC zone panel is functioning properly. They will also check if the temperature control and zone settings are responding as expected.
Calibration and Thermostat Initialization
After power has been turned back on, the technician calibrates the AC zone panel settings with the thermostat. This ensures accurate temperature control and zoning.
On the thermostat, there were two new error codes. The AC zone control system needs to be recognized by the system. In the thermostat settings, the technician normally removes the old AC zone panel to add the new one. In this instance, the thermostat was reset to default settings because the old system was not removable otherwise.
Once the new zone control system was set up, there were new error codes pertaining to the outdoor unit. The thermostat was unable to communicate with the outdoor zone. To remedy that issue, the outdoor condenser was run through a cycle. By removing the plunger on the electrical disconnect which kills power to the unit, it reset the air conditioner.
Secure Zone Panel Cover
Once the repair work and testing were complete, the technician went back up to the attic where the AC zone panel is located. There, the technician finalizes all the wiring and securely fastens the zone panel covers back in place. They will ensure that all screws are tight to prevent any loose connections or potential hazards.
Node Switch and Temperature Testing
Finally, the technician will turn on the power to the AC unit by switching on the dedicated circuit breaker. They will verify that the zone panel is functioning correctly and provide the desired temperature control in each zone, specifically looking at the return air and supply air temperature. The supply air temperature (outdoor) was 75 degrees and the return air temperature (indoor) was 57 degrees.
Fix-it 24/7 Green Club Membership Home Maintenance Plan
Fix-it 24/7 offers a comprehensive home maintenance plan called the Green Club. Green Club members enjoy a complimentary AC tune-up in Charleston, SC and the greater Charleston area. Our plan ensures your HVAC system remains in peak condition with multiple inspections every year which prevents breakdowns and improves efficiency for as little as $24.95 per month.
The Fix-it 24/7 Green Club maintenance plan also gives members a substantial discount on all repairs (like mini-split repairs!) and replacements, with savings across all incurred costs. Members also can utilize the “Bubble Bank” which allows you to use every dollar you spend on your membership for future replacements.
Cost of AC Repair in Summerville
The cost of AC repair in Summerville, SC can vary depending on the scope of the repair and the type of mini-split. However, repairing your air conditioner can save you money on a complete AC replacement. This is especially true if your AC unit is in otherwise good condition. Repairing your air conditioner promptly can also save you money by preventing other issues from arising.
As mentioned above, Fix-it 24/7 Green Club members enjoy a FREE annual tune-up for their AC system and discounted AC repairs, as well as the numerous other benefits mentioned above that make the membership even better than free!
Summerville, SC AC Repair Contractor
A broken zone panel in an AC system can cause numerous discomforts and inefficiencies. However, by opting for AC repair or replacement with Fix-It 24/7, homeowners can overcome these challenges and achieve optimal HVAC system performance. By understanding the process involved in AC repair, you can make informed decisions and ensure a smooth transition. Trust the experts at Fix-it 24/7 to diagnose and replace your old unit, providing you with a reliable and efficient HVAC system for years to come. Don’t believe us? Check out our Google reviews!
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