
A properly running HVAC system is something you need in a home so you have to be sure you maintain this equipment right at all times. A lot of people spend quite a bit to fix things when they don’t work right, but could have avoided such issues if they had maintained them properly. The tips in this article discusses what you need to know about HVAC systems.
Know what type of your HVAC system you currently have before looking for a repair person. This will enable you give the new contractor any information they might need.
Inspect the temps in your home before you call a service to help you with any HVAC issues you’re having. While you are walking through the house, gauge which rooms are the coolest and which are the warmest. Doing so can help your technician fix your HVAC issue quickly.
Be sure to regularly clean external condenser units. You never know when things can pile up, especially after a windy or rainy storm, and that can ruin your system. It can cause a disaster with your system to malfunction by overheating.
Put your outdoor unit in the shade.
Before you choose someone to do HVAC work, figure out what they need to do for you. They won’t be able to offer you a quote if they haven’t seen your system. Getting an estimate will be even more difficult if you cannot adequately describe the problem. So, know this information in advance.
A programmable thermostat can help you save money on your air conditioning costs. Some of these thermostats can even be controlled from your smart phone or other device.
During this service visit, the system motor will be inspected, oil the unit’s moving parts and ensure the unit has proper freon levels. These easy to do things are going to allow your system to run at its best.
Clean your condenser’s fan blades and coil in the spring. For safety, always turn the power off first. Next, pop off the grill, pull out the blades and start cleaning them and the unit itself off gently.
Look for calculators online to help you determine the size of unit is necessary for your room or home. Look in the manual to determine the manufacturer website for air conditioners.
Companies with proven track records that can help you decide if they’re worth your money and time. Hiring a contractor comes with an element of risk.
Many homeowners forget to oil their condenser at least once per year, but it is required. Such ports tend to have coverings made of rubber or metal. Choose a SAE 20 oil whch is lightweight and non-detergent and place 10 drops or less into each port, ensuring it doesn’t overfill.
Ask friends and relations for contractor recommendations. People that have had quality work done in the past generally love to share this information. This is also a great way to get names of those companies that should be avoided.
Are you looking into getting a HVAC system? There are several things you must consider first. Systems are given ratings by how well the system is able to cool and heat an area. You are wise to err on the side of a bigger unit rather than purchasing one that is a bit too small.
Make certain that an outdoor unit is in the shade. Your unit won’t have to work as hard to cool the inside air if the outside air it sucks from is cooler.
Check for duct leaks if your unit seems to not up to snuff. If a leak is found, you’ll find that fixed leaks are worth the money.
If you HVAC unit is making a clicking sound, immediately start looking for any obstructions. Often it is being caused by debris hitting the fans in the cooling system. Check this out yourself first before spending on a contractor.
If at all possible, install double-paned windows in your home instead of those with a single pane. Double pane windows can help minimize how much you use your air conditioner in the summer, because they keep cool air inside the home. They help in the winter, too, keeping the heat in.
Make sure they are tightly sealed so air inside. You can hire a professional.
Measure the area that requires air conditioner shopping.You can easily calculate this by using the formula: 20 BTU for each square footage of space. If you have multiple rooms to cool, just add their total square footage.
A programmable thermostat is a simple way to help save money on air conditioning costs. You have greater control over the temperature settings with these. Take advantage of the convenience of the ability to control many programable thermostats from your favorite electronic device.
Hvac System
Replace the air filter monthly to keep your HVAC system every month. This is an easy thing that you can do and it will keep your HVAC system running well.
Make sure to have your unit serviced once a year. This inspection will ensure that your unit is working efficiently, including a freon level and motor check, and oiling moving parts. This maintenance means that your system will operate optimally.
If you have no choice but to put it in the corner, get a unit where the air won’t be trapped against the wall.
Ask a contractor about their experience.You need to verify they have the type of work on your particular system.
Save energy use and money by turning off the air conditioner if there is nobody home. When it’s off the house will get hot, but only by a certain amount. If the A/C is on when you’re gone, it’ll be working hard constantly.
Always get some references from a contractor.
Any HVAC contractor you hire should have an emergency hotline. They should be there when you need them, whether during a heatwave or a terrible snowstorm.
Before you invest in any HVAC contractor, make sure you spend a good deal of time researching their reputations and credentials. Inquire with the BBB and look elsewhere for other reviews from customers. These steps are going to help to ensure your decision is a wise one.
Cover your condenser when the winter time. This will extend the life of your condenser. Use the fan instead to avoid straining the unit.
This determines the number of BTUs your system has to be.
Occasionally, ice will form on your AC. There can be occasional freezes in their drain lines, and these are usually confused with plumbing leaks. If this is something you notice, switch the thermostat in your home to fan only so the compressor is disabled. You should still call a professional to help regardless.
Consider have a programmable thermostat. This device can save you a great deal of money on your energy bills because your system rests while you are comfortably warm asleep in bed.
You might be surprised to discover that as much as 66% of all homes have ducts that are leaky. This can greatly increase your utility bills. It is easy and cheap to fix the ducts yourself, and you will see a noticeable change in the amount you pay for electricity.
Check out how long the HVAV contractor you are considering has been in business. Companies that are around awhile have a better record than those that haven’t been. Hiring a new company will be riskier.
Keep your HVAC system running efficiently by cleaning the heating ducts. Look at the ducts to make sure they are in good shape. Damaged ducts increase the energy bill.
The condenser needs to be properly taken care of in cold weather. This can easily be done by placing a thick cover on it.
Use recommendations when you are looking for a contractor. Those who have had a great experience should have no issue giving you this info. This can also be used to see who you should avoid.
Written Estimates
Always get written estimates in writing. You need these estimates written down for you. There are many jobs that require you to get written estimates of the cost. This helps ensure you get the best service. Compare various elements of the deals that you are offered.
Check the Internet for reviews on those who fix or install HVAC systems. A simple search should yield a number of sites with informative reviews. This method provides you with all the information you need to make the best hiring decisions.
Your HVAC helps you to stay comfortable in your home. Luckily, these tips will help you avoid expensive repairs. If you don’t follow them, you won’t find any benefit, so keep that in mind.