Temperature Issues
Temperature problems can range from minor adjustments to system failures. This guide helps you troubleshoot common issues and understand your warranty coverage.
Call Classic Homes immediately (719-592-9333) if:
- Total loss of heat when outside temperature is below 45°F
- Total loss of cooling when outside temperature is above 90°F
These are warranty emergencies requiring immediate attention.
Diagnose Your Temperature Problem
Use this flowchart to troubleshoot your HVAC issue before calling for service.
Identify Your Issue
House Too Hot (AC Not Cooling)
Common Causes:
- Thermostat settings
- Dirty filter restricting airflow
- Breaker tripped
- Frozen coils (from overuse or low refrigerant)
- Outside unit obstructed
Try This First:
- Confirm thermostat is set to "cool" and temperature is set BELOW current room temperature
- Check that filter is clean - replace if dirty
- Verify breakers are on (both main panel AND 220 disconnect near outdoor unit)
- Confirm blower panel cover on furnace is properly installed (has safety switch)
- Check that vents in rooms are open and unobstructed
- Ensure air returns are not blocked by furniture
- Check outdoor unit - clear any debris, ensure it's running
Do NOT set thermostat to 60°F thinking it will cool faster. This can freeze the unit and cause damage. Set to your desired temperature (typically 75-78°F) and let the system work.
Is It Covered?
| Issue | Covered | Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| System can't maintain 78°F (or 15°F below outside temp) | Yes | 2 years | Installation defects |
| Component failure | No | — | Manufacturer warranty |
| Damage from misuse | No | — | Including freeze-ups from extreme settings |
| Condenser not level | Yes | 1 year | One-time releveling |
Realistic Expectations: Your AC is designed to maintain 78°F OR a temperature 15°F below outside temperature, whichever is higher. On extremely hot days, lower temperatures may not be achievable.
Detailed Info: Air Conditioning
House Too Cold (Heat Not Working)
For Gas Forced Air Systems:
Try This First:
- Check thermostat - set to "heat" and temperature ABOVE current room temperature
- Verify filter is clean
- Check that furnace breaker is on
- Confirm switch on side of furnace is in "on" position
- Look at furnace - is the blower running? Any error lights blinking?
- Check that gas valve to furnace is open
For Heat Pump Systems:
Try This First:
- Check thermostat settings
- Verify outdoor unit is running and not covered in ice
- Check breakers
- Note: Heat pumps work differently - air from vents may feel cooler than gas furnace
Is It Covered?
| Issue | Covered | Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| System can't maintain 68°F (measured 5ft high, center of room) | Yes | 2 years | Installation defects |
| Component failure | No | — | Manufacturer warranty |
| Thermostat failure | No | — | Manufacturer warranty |
Detailed Info: Heating (Gas Forced Air) | Heating (Heat Pump)
Uneven Temperatures Between Rooms
Common Causes:
- Normal variation due to floor plan, sun exposure, window coverings
- Closed or blocked vents
- Doors closed preventing air circulation
- Upper floors naturally warmer than lower floors
Try This First:
- Ensure vents are open in affected rooms
- Check that air returns are not blocked
- Adjust window coverings - close blinds on sun-facing windows
- Open interior doors to improve air circulation
- Adjust vent dampers to direct more airflow to problem areas
Is It Covered?
| Issue | Covered | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature variations between rooms | No | Normal and expected |
| Temperature variations between floors | No | Normal and expected |
Why It Happens: Temperature variations of several degrees between rooms and floors are normal. Factors include:
- Sun exposure (south/west-facing rooms are warmer)
- Heat rises (upper floors warmer)
- Room usage and traffic
- Window coverings
- Floor plan and duct layout
Detailed Info: Air Conditioning | Ventilation
Humidity Problems
High Humidity / Muggy Feeling:
Try This First:
- Use exhaust fans when cooking, showering, doing laundry
- Make sure dryer vents to outside and connection is secure
- If you have a humidifier, turn it off during cooling season
- Run AC - it removes humidity as it cools
- Open windows when outdoor humidity is lower than indoor
Low Humidity / Too Dry:
Try This First:
- Consider adding a humidifier (not installed by Classic Homes)
- Keep houseplants
- Use humidifier on low-moderate settings in winter
Is It Covered?
| Issue | Covered | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Humidity levels | No | Result of weather and lifestyle |
| Damage from humidity | No | Unless caused by construction defect |
| Humidifier-related damage | No | Classic Homes doesn't install humidifiers |
Detailed Info: Condensation | Ventilation
Drafty Windows or Doors
Common Causes:
- Weatherstripping worn or compressed
- Window not fully closed/latched
- Normal air infiltration around frames
- Settling affecting door/window alignment
Try This First:
- Ensure windows are fully closed AND latched
- Check weatherstripping for visible gaps or damage
- Feel for drafts - is it around the frame or through the glass?
- Check door threshold and sweeps
Is It Covered?
| Issue | Covered | Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Window won't close/latch properly | Yes | 1 year | Will adjust or repair |
| Excessive air infiltration | Yes | 1 year | Workmanship defect |
| Normal air movement around frames | No | — | Some infiltration is normal |
| Weatherstripping wear | No | — | Maintenance item |
Detailed Info: Windows | Doors & Locks
HVAC Making Strange Noises
Common Causes:
- Normal operation sounds (startup, shutdown)
- Loose duct connections
- Debris in outdoor unit
- Expansion/contraction of ducts
Try This First:
- Note when noise occurs (startup only? continuous?)
- Check outdoor unit for debris
- Make sure nothing is blocking vents or returns
- Check filter - restricted airflow can cause noise
Is It Covered?
| Issue | Covered | Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unusual persistent noises | Varies | 2 years | If due to installation defect |
| Normal operation sounds | No | — | Startup/shutdown sounds expected |
| Duct expansion sounds | No | — | Normal with temperature changes |
Detailed Info: Air Conditioning | Heating (Gas Forced Air)
Maintenance Tips
Monthly:
- Check and replace filter (more often in heavy use seasons)
Seasonally:
- Spring: Schedule professional AC inspection before summer
- Fall: Schedule professional heating inspection before winter
- Clear debris from around outdoor unit
- Check that vents and returns are unobstructed
Annually:
- Professional HVAC service
When to Request Service
Contact Classic Homes if:
- System cannot maintain minimum temperatures (78°F cooling / 68°F heating)
- Complete system failure
- Troubleshooting doesn't resolve the issue
- You notice unusual odors from the system
Have Ready:
- Current thermostat setting and room temperature
- What troubleshooting you've already done
- When the problem started
- Any error codes or blinking lights on the unit