It might seem overwhelming to learn about HVAC at first. This doesn’t need to be that way, however, if you’re willing to take your time to go over the following paragraphs. This advice will help you out when it comes to simple repairs on your HVAC system.
If you have some problems with the HVAC system, check things out yourself prior to calling in a technician. This will help the contractor determine what the problem is and how to fix it.
Know what type of system you currently have before calling someone to fix it. Write down the make, model, and any maintenance history. If you have to have someone come out to repair the unit, you will be able to help the contractor understand more about what is going on.
Clean the fan blades and coils each spring to ensure that your condenser fan operates at it’s best. Clean the outside of your external condenser unit regularly.
Turn it off so you don’t get hurt or break something. Next, pop the grill off, pull out the blades and start cleaning them and the unit itself off gently.
By the end of spring, the fan blades and coils of your condenser should be thoroughly cleaned, so operation can proceed with greater efficiency. Before you clean the surface, be sure to turn off the power. Clean the outdoor condenser as well.
Don’t get grass clippings pile up against your outside unit. Aim your grass in a different direction away from the unit. This also applies when you are taking care of the leaves in debris.
Your outdoor HVAC units might suffer when your trees lose their leaves. Make sure you clean out your fan grill is cleaned often once nearby trees start shedding their leaves. The fan must not have anything in the way so that air can flow into it, and if debris is blocking this air flow, then your system could suffer.
Clean the debris off your outdoor condenser unit. Leaves and debris can accumulate quickly, particularly following storms, and that can cause problems for your system. It could overheat and cause a disaster with your unit.
Lubricate the oil ports on your condenser at least once a year. These ports are often covered with rubber or metal cap. Use a lightweight, detergent-free SAE 20 oil, but make sure to avoid overfilling them.
Put your outdoor condensers in places with shade.
Your HVAC system could suffer when trees begin dropping their leaves. Be sure to clean your fan grill frequently when trees nearby are shedding. The fan must stay clear in order to function, and if it gets blocked, you will have to contend with problems.
Make sure you have your HVAC systems is checked at least twice a year. This should happen in the fall and malfunctions.
Turn off any outdoor condenser when it becomes cold out. This should turn it off to prevent damage if the temperature drops below 60ºF to avoid damage. This can keep your system running efficiently for years to come.
Lubricate your condenser yearly if it has oil ports. Such ports tend to have coverings made of rubber or metal. Use a lightweight, detergent-free SAE 20 oil, putting 10 drops in each port.
It is a good idea to swap out single pane windows for double pane ones. This same effect also keeps warm air in during the colder months.
A programmable thermostat can help save money on air conditioning costs. Some of these thermostats can even be controlled from a PC or other device.
Get your HVAC unit serviced two times per year. Check into it twice a year before you head into the hot and cold months. Even though it may seem as nothing is wrong with the unit, a simple inspection can prove otherwise.
Companies that are well established have track records typically provide better service. Hiring a new contractor who is just starting out can be risky.
There are now different online sites now that let customers can place their service experiences. This is useful for finding contractors that you are interested in dealing with and those that you don’t.
Outdoor condenser units need to be turned off when the weather turns cold. When the temperature drops beneath 60 degrees, it’s time to cut off the unit to prevent damage. This simple tip will help keep the system running efficiently for many years to come.
Contractors determine their own fee levels, so make sure that you acquire multiple estimates. You can save quite a lot of money when you call different companies for price quotes. Call around to find out what the best deal possible.
Are you thinking of getting a new heating/cooling system? There are things to consider. Systems have ratings according to how large an area they can effectively heat or cool. You are better off purchasing a unit rather than a bit too small.
If you are going to be gone during the day or on vacation, turn the temperature up on your air conditioning unit. The house will only heat up to a certain point. When the AC is left running, your power bill will go up quite a bit.
Check for duct leaks if your existing system is not up to snuff. Once leaks have been fixed, the savings will be more than worth the hassle.
Make certain they are tightly sealed so air inside. You can hire someone to test them.
Look online for a/c sizing calculators so you can really understand the unit size needed for your home or room. If you buy a unit that is too big, it won’t do an efficient job. Look at the manual to figure out the manufacturing rates the unit for accurate cooling information.
Square Footage
Measure the area that requires air conditioner shopping.You generally need 20 BTU per square footage of room space. If you are cooling more than one room, be sure to add their square footage together.
How long has the contractor been in business? It is more likely that a contractor who has been in business for a longer time will give you better value for your money. If you hire someone that’s new that this then you’ll be risking your money.
Pick HVAC companies that understands the unit and works quickly to solve the problem.The best companies make sure their technicians stay on schedule.A licensed technician will also easily diagnose any problems with your HVAC. After they see what the problem is, they resolve issues swiftly.
As you now see, learning about HVAC is not that difficult. It’s very easy to have things work your way by using the advice above. Use these things well and in the end you may even make money with this.
Install a radiant barrier in your attic to boost HVAC efficiency. It blocks heat from the inside out, lowering the amount of energy needed to cool your home in the summer. If this is installed correctly, it will give you the ability to actually use your attic as extra space to live in.
