Follow these tips on dealing with your HVAC system.
Clean the coils and blades in your condenser at the beginning of summer. If you are doing more than a light surface cleaning, make sure that the power is shut off to the HVAC unit. Remove leaves and debris from the condenser outside.
Know what work you want done before you hire a contractor. It will be difficult for an HVAC contractor to give you with an estimate over the phone if they have not seen your current setup is. It will be way more difficult for him to assist you can’t figure out what they need to do.
Clean your condenser’s fan blades and coil in the spring. Be sure to turn the power off first; you don’t want anything to move. Then you need to get the grill popped off and get the blades out so you can clean them and your unit gently.
Clean any debris that accumulates on your condenser units. You don’t know when things are going to pile up, especially after a windy or rainy storm, and that can ruin your system. It can also cause the unit to overheat and break down.
When selecting a location for an outdoor compressor, opt for a shady area, if possible. The cooler air that the unit can suck in, the less work it will need to do to further cool the air.
Don’t get grass clippings pile up against your outdoor condenser. Aim the grass in a different direction away from your unit. This also applies to leaf blowing and any other yard work that results in the yard.
Make sure your HVAC systems is checked twice a year. This should be done in Fall and Spring to prepare it for the extreme months. Even if you don’t notice anything wrong, you can check it out to figure out what the potential issues are.
Have your HVAC system checked twice a year at least yearly. This should happen in the fall and again in the spring.
When the weather cools down, turn your outdoor condenser off. 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 will maximize the life of your unit.
A programmable thermostat is a simple way to help you out when it comes to your power bills. Some can even be controlled from your smart phone or computer.
In order to keep energy costs down, make sure heating and cooling systems are services at least once per year. The motor should be checked, the parts oiled and the freon levels inspected. Doing this simple task can ensure that your system will be running for years with no problem!
When it’s checked out, expect inspections of freon levels and the motor, and see how much freon is in your system. These few simple things will help your HVAC system to run at its peak performance.
Don’t let your home get way too hot to where it’s dangerous. Even the best air conditioners can only realistically cool your home approximately 20 degrees Farenheit. This means that if the weather is above 100 degrees, then you’ll still be baking in 80 degree weather at first! If humidity is high, this temp is still unsafe for people.
Air conditioners sometimes ice up at times. The drain line may also freeze over. If you notice this, disable the compressor by turning your thermostat to the fan only setting. You should call a pro to fix this problem, but switching to the fan setting should start to melt the ice.
To choose an HVAC contractor that’s trustworthy, take time to research some companies you’re interested in, along with their reputations. A good start would be the BBB to see if there are any complaints, then search online for review sites where you can see what actual customers had to say about their experience. This will help you make the best choice.
Companies that are around awhile have a better record than those that can help you decide if they’re worth your money and time. Hiring a newer contractor means taking a considerable risk.
Some air conditioners can ice up. Freezes also occur in your drain line. These freezes are easily confused as leaks to the untrained eye. If this is something you notice, switch the thermostat in your home to fan only so the compressor is disabled. The ice will melt. You will likely need professional help to stop the problem.
Speak with someone close to you to see if they can recommend someone good to service their HVAC contractor. People who have been happy with work they have had done in the past are usually willing to tell of it. This will also be used to see who you should be avoided.
Ask your friends, relatives, and coworkers about their experiences with HVAC contractors in your area. Anyone that has previously needed work done on their HVAC unit are more than happy to tell you their experiences. This is an excellent way to find which companies to stay away from.
Are you considering purchasing a new HVAC system? There are a number of things you should consider. 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.
If you need help locating someone to help take of your HVAC system, a great place to seek advice is online at a review site. Lots of sites exist where customers can leave feedback and reviews. You will be able to make a more informed choice if you do this.
Check for duct leaks if you you feel your unit seems to not be working efficiently. When you have leaks repaired, the tests will pay for themselves.
Every contractor out there is responsible for setting up their own fees, so get several quotes before hiring anyone. If you call around before making a final decision, it can save you a lot of money in the end. Contact a minimum of five contractors so you can determine realistically what the price will be.
Figure out which direction your home is facing so your HVAC system more efficient. The less heat in your home, the less work your AC will have to do.
Try installing a type of radiant barrier in the attic for to have a more efficient HVAC system. It will block the heat and lower the energy necessary to keep your home cool in the summertime. You could even use your attic as part of your living space if it is done right.
Make certain they have tight seals to keep air can’t seep in.You can get a professional out to help you test them.
Check for debris if you hear clicking in the HVAC unit. It could be that debris has made its way into the system. All you have to do is get this debris out of there to fix the problem. Check it out yourself first before you call in the professionals.
Measure the living area you wish to cool before buying a unit. You generally need about 20 BTU per square footage of room space. If multiple rooms need cooling, combine all the square footage.
Each month, you need to get a new air filter and install it in your unit. This is a very simple job and it keeps the system running at maximum efficiency. Filters are cheap, and changing them regularly adds up to long term savings.
Hvac System Working
Pick a contractor who gets back to you quickly and understands the job. The best companies keep the technicians working honestly and on time. These techs should be able to figure out what is up with an HVAC rather quickly. After diagnosis, they should then know how to deal with the problem.
Replace the air filter in your HVAC system working well.This represents an easy thing to do and it will keep your HVAC system working well.
Ask a contractor about their experience prior to hiring them. It is important that you hire someone that has enough background experience to get the work done properly. It’s best to find someone who knows what they’re doing.
Pick an HVAC companies that know what they’re doing and works quickly to solve the problem. The most reliable companies make sure their technicians will always be on schedule. A knowledgeable technician will also have no problem diagnosing any potential faults with your HVAC. Once they are able to locate a problem, they should also know how to get them resolved efficiently and quickly.
When hiring a contractor, be sure to ask for a list of references. You want to be able to ask if what was expected is what the homeowner got, such as being on time and on budget. Make certain to follow through and contact the references provided.
If it has to be placed in a corner, get one with moving vents.
The services you are paying a contractor to do should be clearly spelled out in your contract. Some contractors will attempt to overcharge you on material fees and other charges. Getting a contract that’s written and solid can assist you because you’ll avoid these kinds of issues.
Ask a contractor about their experience.You need to verify they have done the type of experience needed to work you require.
Fit the condenser on your HVAC with a protective cover during the colder winter months. That ensures it isn’t damaged by the cold and snow. Never use the compressor when the temperature outside is below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Instead, just use the fan if need be.
Always request references before hiring any contractor.
It is always essential to contact the HVAC contractor’s references. Too many people take for granted that reference are indeed legitimate, when in fact they may not be. It will only take you a few minutes to call and check someone out, so don’t hesitate to do that.
Any HVAC contractor or installer should have a 24-hour emergency hotline. They should be there when you need them, whether during a heatwave or a terrible snowstorm.
The next time your HVAC is being looked at, think about getting a programmable thermostat added to the unit. This will save you money on your utility bill and give your unit needed rest.
Hvac System
To save some cash, try picking an Energy Star HVAC unit. They are very efficient models which meet exacting standards. These are established by the U.S. They are called the EPA for short. If you take the time to do your research, you may save a lot of money in the process.
If you want to be comfortable in a home it’s a good idea to get a good HVAC system setup. It is crucial that you take care of it accordingly. Remember these hints to keep your HVAC system operating at it’s maximum efficiency.
Seek out HVAC contractors that only use products that carry the Energy Star label. This rating means that the product is more efficient than those without it. Which means lower cooling and heating bills for you!