It seems hard to learn about HVAC at first. But this is not necessarily the way it has to be, and the information here is easy to digest. This advice will help even the novice when it comes to HVAC systems.
Know the name and type of your HVAC system before looking for a repair person. Get the brand, model name, and if you can you should get the maintenance history out. This will let you know that you’re able to give the contractor the information that can help them.
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.
Before you choose someone to do HVAC work, figure out what they need to do for you. A contractor will be hard pressed to provide you with an over-the-phone estimate if unfamiliar with your system. It will be more difficult for him to assist you over the phone without the information readily available. Thus, it is worthwhile to have this knowledge ahead of time.
Don’t get grass clippings on your outdoor condenser. Aim the grass cuttings in a different direction from the unit. This applies to leaf blowing and any other yard work that results in debris.
If your unit is outdoors, clean them regularly. Particularly after bad weather, you should inspect your unit. This can lead to overheating.
Your HVAC unit may suffer when trees start to lose leaves. Make sure the fan’s grill is cleaned often during the leaves begin to fall. The fan must stay clear in order to function, and if it gets blocked, you will end up with many headaches with the unit.
Put outdoor condensers in the shade. This will help you save on your energy bill.
10 Drops
It is very important that your HVAC system is serviced two times a year. The ideal thing to do would be to have it checked out in the fall and spring so you’re able to figure out if everything is ready for the cold and hot months. Regular inspection will help you avoid unexpected repairs.
Lubricate your fan condenser once a year. You can easily find the ports covered with rubber or metal cap. Use a lightweight, and put 10 drops or fewer in each port, putting 10 drops in each port.
Turn off outdoor condenser units when weather turns cold. The unit will become damaged if you do not take care of it. Your system will work longer for you this way.
Have the HVAC system inspected twice per year. This should be done in the fall and malfunctions.
If at all possible, install double-paned windows in your home instead of those with a single pane. Double-pane windows keep inside air cooler, allowing you to reduce AC usage in the summertime. As with other steps you take to improve your ability to keep your air conditioned air or heated air inside your home, double-paned windows can help you save on energy costs.
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 and save you a lot on repairs.
One way to save some money with A/C is by having a programmable thermostat installed. A programmable thermostat can save you up to ten percent on your cooling and heating costs by simply turning the thermostat back ten to fifteen percent for eight hours a day. Some programmable thermostats can even be controlled from a PC or other device.
It is a good idea to swap out single pane windows for double pane ones. This will also help you save a lot of money.
You should have your HVAC system inspected at least once, but preferably twice, per year. When they visit to service the unit they’re going to inspect the motors, oil the parts that move, and see how much freon is in your system. Your unit will last longer this way.
Research the companies before hiring them. Check with different references to determine the BBB and look for reviews posted by former customers. These simple steps are going to help make a wise one.
Do your homework on a number of HVAC companies before selecting the one that has the best reputation and service record. It is always wise to check their status with the BBB. In addition, check out customer reviews that appear online. These steps can help ensure you make the smartest and most informed choice.
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.
Sometimes, air conditioners collect ice. This can also happen on the drain line. If this is something you notice, switch the thermostat in your home to fan only so the compressor is disabled. While switching the system to the fan setting should begin the ice melting process, the best thing to do is to hire a professional to deal with the problem.
Companies that are around awhile have track records that haven’t been. Hiring an inexperienced contractor who is just starting out can be risky.
Find an air conditioner calculator online to determine what models are best for you. If you purchase something too large, you will be throwing away money. Look at the manual to figure out the manufacturing rates the unit for accurate cooling information.
Ask friends and family for their HVAC contractor recommendations. People who they have used and if they are worth calling. This can also a great way to get names of those companies that you should be avoided.
Make certain the HVAC company you choose has a proven track record. This will ensure that you find someone who knows their stuff. Otherwise, you are taking a huge risk with the person you hire.
Contractors determine their own fee levels, so make sure you get quotes from several contractors before you make any hiring decision. You can save tons of money when you call different companies for price quotes. You want to get quotes from at least a handful of contractors to determine what reasonable rates are.
If you aren’t sure who to call for HVAC maintenance, repairs, or installation, look online for reviews. There are many review sites you can check out. This method provides you with all the information you need to make the best hiring decisions.
Are you looking into getting a HVAC system? There are a number of things you must consider first. Systems have a rating based on how effectively they can cool and heat an area well. You are better off purchasing a bigger unit that is slightly too large for your needs than purchasing one that is a bit too small.
Each contractor will have their own fee schedule, so make sure you get several different quotes before you hire anybody. If you make a few calls before you decide, it can result in great savings. Call at least four or five different HVAC specialist to find the best rates.
Hopefully, you now feel more comfortable with HVAC units as a whole. When you use the tips here, things will go your way soon. If used wisely, this can be a simple way to make some money.
Check for duct leaks if your unit seems to not be working efficiently. The local utility may be able to test for you, and their services are frequently free or low cost. When you have leaks repaired, the testing has paid for itself.
