“How to be a better technician” is the question that’s on every HVAC tech’s mind – or at least we hope so!

Southland Heating & Air Conditioning have a short but insightful guide for aspiring technicians looking for a few new HVAC tricks of the trade.

Southland Heating & Air Conditioning have a team of highly qualified technicians that handle a range of HVAC services for customers throughout Newbury Park and beyond.

Here’s We have compiled a few key HVAC tips and tricks for technicians to keep in mind when on the job so that they can provide optimal results for the clients they are servicing.
  • When working on a heating or cooling system, make sure you allow it to reach SSO (also known as Steady State Operation) prior to assessing temperature or amperage results. This will lead to a more accurate reading!
  • Don’t wait around for the AC or heating unit to get to SSO – instead, use that time effectively by tackling any necessary paperwork or customer worksheets that may need to get down. This helps you capitalize on the waiting period and ensures you give the system time to reach SSO.
  • Make sure to adjust the thermostat about 20 to 30 degrees different than the current indoor temperature to allow the system to run smoothly without shutting off. This will allow you to get the readings you need without having to reset anything.
  • Rainy weather? Damp condenser? Low outdoor ambient temperatures (below 68 degrees)? Don’t get stuck trying to use the program, as the sub-cooling method simply won’t properly charge the system in these conditions.
  • If you are taking outdoor ambient temperatures, make sure to avoid direct sunlight or other strong heat sources that may skew the actual temperature reading.
  • Not sure your temperature readings are completely accurate? Just double-check them rather than putting on a set of refrigerant gauges!
  • Working on a home that is above sea level? Any altitude or elevation differences may impact heating and cooling capacity losses due to air density or adjustment of cooling fan speed. Consider using a chart to help you quickly and easily make those adjustments.
  • Don’t be afraid to start small or slow. Run some reports in the office with someone to double-check your work before ever running a report in the field. Get comfortable with the process before stepping in front of a client! Also, practice explaining the report in more common lingo so a client isn’t scratching their head after you’ve given them very complicated information.
  • Are readings simply not adding up? Start by taking the readings again, then checking your meters, then verifying that you used the correct methods to take those readings if you still aren’t happy with the accuracy of the results.
  • When providing results to clients, allow them time to review the sheet or information before diving into an explanation. Go over the report’s findings then allow for them to digest the information and leave room for any questions they may have. Be prepared with your recommendations for any problems!

If you’re still looking for more information on how to be a better HVAC service technician, follow our blog. For homeowners with HVAC systems that need servicing by qualified technicians, be sure to reach out to Southland Heating & Air Conditioning today!

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