Anyone who has a HVAC system in their home knows the importance of properly maintaining it. An improperly or inefficiently functioning HVAC system that doesn’t work right is something that costs quite a lot of money. The following tips concerning HVAC maintenance and repairs.
Know what type of system before looking for a repair person. This helps make sure the contractor has the information they will be sufficiently prepared.
Outdoor condenser units need to be cleaned regularly. The dirt could pile up and harm your system. It can also cause it to overheat.
If you have some problems with the HVAC system, check out each room in your house before calling for assistance. This information will help the contractor determine what the problem is and how to fix it.
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Make sure your condenser fan is in good working order by wiping down the fan blades and the coils. Turn the power off so nothing moves. Next, pop off the grill, pull out the blades and start cleaning them and the unit itself off gently.
Know what you want done before you select an HVAC contractor. It will be hard for an HVAC contractor to give you a price estimate on the phone without knowing what your current system. It will be more hard if you can’t figure out what they need to do.
Clean any debris off your outdoor condenser unit. You never know when things can pile up, like right after it’s windy or rains, and that can throw a wrench in your system. It can cause a disaster with your unit.
Keep your outdoor units free of debris when you are mowing the lawn. Shoot the grass away from the unit. The same should happen if you are blowing leaves, so be especially careful when you are going by your exterior HVAC devices whenever you are moving debris.
Don’t get grass clippings on your outdoor condenser. Direct the grass clippings away from the HVAC unit. This also applies when you are taking care of the leaves in debris.
Leaves and debris can damage your HVAC unit. Make sure the unit’s fan grill is cleaned often during the leaves begin to fall. The fan must be unobstructed to work properly, and if it is clogged, it could cause your system to break down.
Check to determine if the fan condenser on your HVAC system is equipped with oil ports, and if it is, be sure to lubricate every year. The port usually has either a rubber or metal cap on top of it. Use SAE 20 oil that is lightweight and detergent free, and put ten drops or fewer into each one. Make sure not to overfill them.
Put your outdoor units in places with shade.
Have your heating and cooling system inspected twice a year at the least. This should be done in the fall and malfunctions.
Be sure to place your outdoor unit in a shady spot to maximize efficiency. When your unit sucks in cooler air, then much less is required to cool it further, which saves you money on energy bills.
Don’t ever let your home temperature get too hot. Air conditioners really can cool a home down about 20 degrees in a reasonable amount of time. If your home become 100F or more, you will only be able to cool it down to 80. This is not a healthy environment to live in.
Research and check the companies that you consider using. Check with the BBB and look for reviews as well. These simple steps are going to help to ensure your decision is a wise one.
When colder weather arrives, switch off all outdoor condenser units. If you get into temperatures that are less than 60 degrees you need the unit to be shut off so it doesn’t get damaged. This can keep your system working for years and save you a lot on repairs.
Air conditioners sometimes ice up at times. The drain line might also freeze up.If this is something you notice, put your thermostat over to fan. You can call a HVAC professional, even if switching it to its fan setting starts making the ice melt.
Look for calculators online to help you determine the size of unit is necessary for your room or home. Look at the manual to determine the manufacturer website for this information.
It is a good idea to replace single-paned windows with ones that have double panes. In warmer months, these windows will help to maintain the cooler inside temperature. This same effect also keeps warm air in during the winter months.
Companies that are around awhile have a better record than those 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.
The suggestions above should help you develop a strategy for keeping your HVAC system in good working order. A faulty HVAC can cost you a plethora of money and time. Remember this advice in order to ensure that your HVAC remains in tip top condition.
Service your HVAC unit at least one time a year. During service the technician will check the motor and refill the system fluids. This maintenance means that your system will operate optimally.
