Question 1

My system is not working at all! What should I do?

Accepted Answer

Before calling technical service, if your system is completely stopped, not heating, or not cooling, check the following: Do you have electricity? A power outage could give you partial current (not 220 volts). Is your system working in the correct mode? Has the requested temperature been reached? Is a program active on the thermostat? Are the circuit breakers for the appliances in the house's electrical panel tripped? (the heat pump or air conditioner and the furnace or ventilation unit each have distinct circuit breakers in the electrical panel.) Are the circuit breakers on the furnace or ventilation unit tripped? Is an error code visible on the thermostat? Do you need to replace your system's filter? Perform the following tests: Stop the system using the thermostat. Turn off the circuit breakers for all appliances at the house's electrical panel (air conditioner, heat pump, ventilation unit, or furnace) and remove the batteries (if applicable) from the thermostat for 15 minutes (if it's more than a year old). Check the system's filter and replace it if necessary. Ensure the condenser is clear (snow, debris in the coil, ice, etc.). Turn the circuit breakers back on and reinsert the thermostat batteries (if applicable), then start the system (an automatic configuration delay is normal for thermostats). During the heating season and if the outside temperature allows the heat pump to operate, increase the heating by one degree above the displayed indoor temperature to allow the heat pump to start. If the heat pump does not start after 5 minutes or if the temperature is below -12°C (maximum operating temperature for most systems), select the heating mode.

Question 2

I have a central heat pump, up to what temperature does it work in winter?

Accepted Answer

Most heat pumps work down to about -12°C. Below this temperature, a mechanical or electronic adjustment transfers the heating demand to the primary heating unit (furnace or ventilation unit).

Question 3

I will be away for an extended period, what do you recommend?

Accepted Answer

If you plan to be away for more than 48 hours, turn off the heat pump and use only the primary heating unit (furnace or ventilation unit) by selecting the auxiliary heating mode on the thermostat. Severe weather could affect your unit during winter and damage it during your absence (freezing rain, heavy snow). Do a visual inspection of your outdoor condenser upon your return before using it.

Question 4

What is a condenser?

Accepted Answer

An outdoor unit that includes, among other things, a compressor.

Question 5

What is an evaporator?

Accepted Answer

An indoor unit, most often in a ventilation cabinet, that allows heat exchange in your home.

Question 6

What is a coil?

Accepted Answer

A silver radiator full of fins located on the condenser and evaporator. It is what facilitates heat exchange.

Question 7

What is a heat pump?

Accepted Answer

A device that can heat and cool.

Question 8

What is an air conditioner?

Accepted Answer

A device that only provides air conditioning.

Écoclim

Écoclim