Controls

The HVAC control board is essentially the brains of the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. Mounted inside the air handler or furnace unit, this electronic circuit board contains a variety of components like microprocessors, transistors, relays, and transformers that work together to regulate and direct all the operations of the HVAC system. The control board runs programming that can turn the system on or off, manage air flow speeds through the blower, start and stop the blower fan, trigger heating or cooling modes, monitor safety switches, control defrost cycles in heat pumps, and more. The board also contains diagnostic LED lights that can flash different error codes to assist HVAC technicians in quickly troubleshooting any issues.

HVAC control boards have evolved from using simple electromechanical technology to more advanced digital circuitry that offers higher precision, more efficiency, and added features. However, these boards are still prone to malfunction over time due to issues like electrical shorts, blown fuses, failed components, or general wear and tear. A faulty control board can lead to a variety of operation problems from no heating or cooling to inconsistent temperatures or a non-functioning unit. Only replacement with the exact OEM control board will properly restore system functioning. Upgrading to a newer control board model can also add improved capabilities to older HVAC equipment. Proper installation and wiring of the replacement board is critical for the system to operate safely and efficiently.