Anyone that has a HVAC system in their home knows how it important it is to have it properly maintaining it. An HVAC unit that runs poorly will only end up costing money on pricey repairs. The article you’re about to read is composed of multiple tips will help you care for your HVAC maintenance and repairs.
Know the name and type of system you currently have before looking for a repair person. This will ensure that you can give your new contractor any information they might need.
Before an HVAC expert comes to your home to do any repair work, walk around the home and check out the temps in every room. Make note of which rooms are cold and which are hot. Figuring this out will the contractor to diagnose the issues and quickly get to work on fixing it.
If problems arise with the HVAC system, check things out yourself prior to calling in a technician. This will help the repairman determine what the problem is and how to fix it.
Know what you want done before you hire a contractor. It will be difficult for an HVAC contractor to give you with an estimate on the phone without knowing what your current system. It will be way more difficult for him to assist you can’t figure out what they need to do.
Make sure clippings don’t get on your outdoor units when your mowing your lawn. Aim the grass in a different direction from the unit. The same goes for when you blow leaves, so make sure your are careful when moving any debris in the vicinity of your HVAC devices.
Put outdoor condensers in the shade if you are installing them.
Have the HVAC system inspected twice a year at the least.This should be done in the fall and malfunctions.
If you have oil ports as part of the fan condenser, annual lubrication is key. You’ll find these ports are covered with a metal or rubber cap. Use a lightweight, detergent-free SAE 20 oil, putting 10 drops in each port.
It is a good idea to replace single-paned windows with ones that have double pane ones. This will also keeps warm air in during the winter months.
During your service visit, the serviceman will inspect the unit’s motor, oil the different moving parts as well as check the system’s freon levels. These repairs will help your HVAC system to run at its peak performance.
Be sure to place your outdoor unit in a shady spot to maximize efficiency. You save money this way because the air conditioner is now pulling in cooler air, which is easier to cool further.
Research the reputation of companies that you consider using. Check them out at the BBB and online reviews posted by former customers. These steps are going to help ensure you make the smartest and most informed choice.
Air conditioners sometimes ice up at times. The drain line may also freeze over. If this is something you notice, change the setting on your thermostat to the fan setting and this will disable the compressor. You should leave the repair to a professional, but switching to the fan will make the ice melt.
Have the HVAC system serviced twice per year. This should be done in the fall and again in the spring. Even if everything seems okay, it doesn’t hurt to check things out.
Companies with proven track records that can help you decide if they’re worth your money and time. It is always risky to hire someone who does not have a contractor with little experience.
Ask for helpful information when you can find a reputable HVAC contractor. People who have used and if they are worth calling. This is also a great way to get names of companies that you should avoid.
As the temperature outside drops, remember to turn off your outdoor condenser unit. When the temperature goes below 60 degrees, shut off the unit in order to prevent damage. Your system will work longer for you this way.
There are a lot of sites that let customers can place their reviews. This will help you should work with and people that may not work well with you.
Think about getting a radiant barrier installed in your attic so support the efficient functioning of your HVAC system. It ensures that your unit stays hot outside. You may even find that you can use the attic as part of your living space if it is done right.
If the house is yours or you’re permitted to, replace the windows that are single pane with windows that are double pane. Double-pane windows keep inside air cooler, allowing you to reduce AC usage in the summertime. Likewise, in the winter more hot air stays inside during the cold season.
Are you thinking about having a cooling and heating system that’s new? You will need to think about a few important things. Systems are given ratings by how well the system is able to cool or heat an area. You are wise to err on the side of a bigger unit that is slightly too large for your needs than purchasing one that is a smaller one.
Check for duct leaks if your existing system is not be working efficiently. If you do end up paying, the money spent on finding and repairing the leak will pay for itself.
Install a programmable thermostat to save energy costs. Such thermostats help you save around ten percent when it comes to energy costs. There are also some programmable thermostats that can be controlled with a computer or other web-connected advice.
Figure out which direction your home faces in order to make your HVAC system can work better. The less heat inside the house, the easier time the air conditioner in your home will have.
If your HVAC system is producing any type of clicking sounds, look for blockages right away. Often it is being caused by debris hitting fans in the cooling system. Look before you call up a service technician.
You can keep energy costs in your home lower by choosing to have professional maintenance done on your HVAC unit. During your service visit, the serviceman will inspect the unit’s motor, oil the unit’s moving parts and ensure the unit has proper freon levels. These few simple things will help your system to run at its peak performance.
Make sure they are tightly sealed so air inside. You can get these tested at little to no charge by a professional to test them all for you and often this testing is free.
Replace the air filter monthly to keep your HVAC system every month. This will maximize the production of your unit remains in good operating condition.
Your home should not have temperatures that are too hot. AC units will only cool a house down 20 degrees. If you have your home at above 100 degrees then you can only get it to about 80 or above. While it depends on the humidity, this is not safe for a human to sleep in to recover from the heat of the summer.
Always make sure to get references before hiring any contractor.
There are dishonest contractors out there that will try to overcharge you. Having a solid written contract will let you avoid these types of issues.
To choose an HVAC contractor that’s trustworthy, take time to research some companies you’re interested in, along with their reputations. Look at review sites and check with the BBB. This can help you make the right choice.
Consider have a programmable thermostat. This sort of device will save you to save quite a bit of money on utilities as your system gets to rest as you do things like sleep.
These types of units are energy efficient and meet the strict efficiency guidelines. These standards are determined by the United States government. They are called the environment and human health. Taking time to look into these units may help you save a significant amount of money.
Did you know an AC unit can freeze? The drain line also occasionally freezes, which can be misdiagnosed as a plumbing leak. If this happens, put your thermostat over to fan. It is best to call a professional in to fix this particular issue, even though the switch to fan setting should cause the ice to start melting.
You may be surprised to discover that as many as two-thirds of households have ducts that leak. This equals up to 25% of your electric bill. It is not difficult to seal your ducts, and it will save you on your bills every month.
Look for HVAC contractor that uses Energy Star equipment and products. This ensures efficiency that the EPA. This helps save you reduce your energy bills during the year.
Look for air conditioner sizing calculators online to truly understand what size of unit is necessary for your room or home. If you buy something too large it won’t be efficient as it cools the same. Any unit’s manual will be able to give you an accurate idea for the size of the unit versus your home.
Hvac System
Now you should be better prepared to make sure your HVAC system runs well for a long time. A malfunctioning HVAC system is not something you want, since that can run up your stress and budget. Go back over these tips to make yourself sure that your HVAC system will last for a long time.
Contractors are responsible for their own charges and fees, so make sure you get quotes from several contractors before you make any hiring decision. This can help you to save money by knowing what people are charging. You want to call at least a handful of contractors to determine what reasonable rates are.
