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HVAC ContractingNewsService and MaintenanceHVAC Residential MarketHVAC Light Commercial MarketSplit Systems

Troubleshooting Puzzle: A Split System With Ongoing Complaints

Despite several service calls, the system isn’t keeping the homeowner comfortable

By Jim Johnson
Duct System Diagram.
Figure One (Courtesy of RSES)
April 9, 2021

The equipment in this month’s troubleshooting situation is a split system that has only been in service for two years, but there is a lot of history: several service calls since the equipment was installed, and an on-going complaint from the customer that the system just doesn’t keep their manufactured home comfortable.

Several technicians have reported that they checked the refrigerant charge. One technician reported adjusting the OBD (Opposed Blade Damper) supply registers in an effort to achieve a better balance of airflow throughout the three bedrooms, living room, dining room, and kitchen. Another technician replaced the indoor blower motor with an exact OEM replacement motor and capacitor. None of the previous service calls solved the problem and the customer complaint that the house often seems “sticky”.

After considering the previous work performed, you elect to do a series of temperature tests on the duct system. Figure One shows the test points at which you measured both the dry bulb and wet bulb temperatures in both the return and supply duct assemblies. When you calculate your results with a psychrometric chart, you note that there is a significant specific humidity change in the return duct system.

Your troubleshooting question: What is the next step you need to take in servicing this equipment?

Compare your answer with ours here.

Looking for quick answers on air conditioning, heating and refrigeration topics? Try Ask ACHR NEWS, our new smart AI search tool. Ask ACHR NEWS →

KEYWORDS: HVAC service service calls troubleshooting and HVACR Troubleshooting Puzzle

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Jim Johnson is the director of training for Technical Training Associates, a Tucson, Ariz.-based firm that provides HVACR technician training DVDs/videos, E-books, and workshops. For more information, call 520-625-6847 or visit www.techtrainassoc.com. 

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