Emergency HVAC? What Shepherdsville Homeowners Should Do Before We Arrive

The last thing anyone in Shepherdsville wants is their HVAC system to unexpectedly quit, especially during the peak of summer or the biting cold of winter. That sudden silence from your furnace or the lack of cool air from your AC can trigger immediate panic. While Beyer Services is always ready to respond to urgent issues, there are a few simple checks you can perform before calling for emergency services. These quick troubleshooting steps could save you a service call and get your system back up and running sooner!



When your comfort is compromised, it's easy to assume the worst. But often, the problem can be something minor and easily resolved. Here's your helpful checklist for those "HVAC emergency?" moments:

1. Check Your Thermostat Settings

This is the number one culprit for seemingly major HVAC problems!

• Is it ON? Sounds obvious, but sometimes it gets bumped or turned off.
• Is it set to the correct mode? Ensure it's on "Heat" when you want heat, and "Cool" when you want AC. If it's on "Fan Only," it will just circulate unconditioned air.
• Is the temperature setting correct? Make sure your desired temperature is set lower than the current indoor temperature for cooling, or higher for heating.
• Check the batteries! If your thermostat uses batteries, dead batteries can make it appear as though your entire system has failed. A quick battery swap could be all you need.
• Is it programmed correctly? If you have a programmable thermostat, ensure no settings have been accidentally changed or that the “hold" function isn't engaged.
  

2. Inspect Your Circuit Breakers

HVAC systems draw a lot of power, and sometimes a power surge or an overload can trip a circuit breaker.

• Locate your electrical panel. This is usually in your basement, garage, or a utility closet.
• Find the breaker labeled for your furnace or AC. It might be clearly labeled "HVAC," "Furnace," or "AC."
• Look for a trip breaker. A tripped breaker will usually be in an "off" or middle position, rather than fully "on."
• Reset the breaker. Firmly push the tripped breaker completely to the "off" position, then firmly flip it back to the "on" position.
• Important Safety Note: If the breaker trips again immediately or frequently, do not keep resetting it. This indicates a more serious electrical issue that requires professional attention. Turn it off and call us.
  

3. Change or Check Your Air Filter

A dirty or clogged air filter is a surprisingly common cause of HVAC issues, especially reduced airflow or even system shutdowns.

• Locate your air filter. It's typically in the return air duct of your furnace or air handler.
• Remove and inspect it. Is it caked with dust, dirt, pet hair, or other debris?
• Replace it if dirty. A clean filter ensures proper airflow, allowing your system to work efficiently and preventing it from overheating or freezing up. Aim to change your filter every 1-3 months, or more frequently if you have pets or allergies.
  

4. Check the Outdoor Unit (for AC)

If your air conditioner isn't cooling, look at the outdoor condenser unit.

• Clear debris. Make sure there's no accumulation of leaves, grass clippings, dirt, or other debris around the unit. Obstructions can block airflow and cause the unit to overheat or stop working. Gently hose off the coils if they appear dirty.
• Check for ice. If your outdoor unit (or indoor coil) is covered in ice, this usually indicates an airflow problem (like a dirty filter) or low refrigerant. Turn off your AC (but leave the fan on if possible) to allow the ice to melt, then replace the filter. If the ice returns, it's time to call a professional.
  

5. Check for Blocked Vents

Walk around your home and ensure that all supply and return vents are open and unobstructed by furniture, rugs, or curtains. Blocked vents can restrict airflow and lead to uneven temperatures or system stress.

When to Call Beyer Services

If you've gone through this checklist and your HVAC system is still not working, it's time to call in the professionals. Some issues require specialized tools, training, and diagnostics. You should always call for emergency services if you experience:

• Complete system failure during extreme weather (very hot or very cold).
• A burning smell from your unit or electrical panel.
• A gas smell (evacuate immediately and call 911 first, then us).
• Water leaks or floods from your HVAC equipment.
• Unusual loud banging, grinding, or screeching noises indicating a major mechanical problem.
  

At Beyer Services, we understand that HVAC emergencies don't stick to a schedule. That's why we're here to help Shepherdsville homeowners with urgent issues. While these preliminary checks can often resolve minor problems, rest assured that our experienced and reliable technicians are just a call away when you need expert assistance.

Don't sweat it (or freeze!) – we're here to help. If your HVAC system is causing you trouble, give Beyer Services a call at (502) 689-8993. We'll get your comfort restored as quickly and efficiently as possible!