Not many people have an in depth knowledge about working on HVAC systems. This can be problematic when a cooling or heating issue pops up.
When you start making calls to get someone to help with your HVAC system, it’s a good idea to know what system you have before that phone call. Look for the maintenance history and brand and model. This makes sure your contractor will be sufficiently prepared.
Turn the power off first so nothing moves.Next, pop off the grill, put the blades out and start to gently clean them along with the unit.
Don’t get grass clippings on your outdoor condenser. Aim your grass in a different direction from your unit.This also applies to leaf blowing and any other yard work that results in the yard.
To make sure your condenser fan works properly, keep the fan blades and the coils clean. Always make sure you shut off the power before you do any work on the unit other than superficial cleaning. Also, make sure you remove any debris or leaves from the condenser unit outside.
Have your HVAC system checked twice a year at the least. This should happen in the fall and again in the spring.
During this service visit, they will inspect the motor of the system, oil the unit’s moving parts and ensure the unit has proper freon levels. These simple things will help your system running at its peak performance.
If the fan on your condenser includes oil ports, they must be lubricated annually. You can find these ports covered with rubber or metal caps. Chose SAE 20 oil, which has been proven to be the most effective.
Never let your home to rise to a dangerously high level. An air conditioning unit is really only able to reduce the internal temperature by twenty degrees in a fair time. If your house’s interior temperature hits 100 degrees Fahrenheit, then you will only be able to reasonably cool to around 80. This is not a healthy environment to live in.
Research the companies before hiring them. Check them out at the BBB and look for your situation. These simple steps can help make the smartest and most informed choice.
To increase the efficiency of your HVAC unit, be sure to keep it in the shade. As your air conditioner sucks in cool air, little will have to be done to cool it any further, saving you a ton on your energy bills.
Air conditioners sometimes ice up at times. The drain line might also freeze up. If you notice this, change the setting on your thermostat to the fan setting and this will disable the compressor. If the issue persists, call a professional.
Companies that are around awhile have track records that can help you decide if they’re worth your money and time. Hiring a contractor may be taking a considerable risk.
A programmable thermostat can really help you out when it comes to your power bills. It changes the temperature so the system isn’t in use when it’s cooler outside or no one is home. Additionally, some models of programmable thermostats actually allow you to control them remotely from your office computer or cell phone.
Ask your friends and family for contractor recommendations. People who’ve had great service are often happy to share the name of it. It’s also a good way to learn which companies should not be contracted for work.
Contractors charge different rates, so make sure you get quotes from several contractors before you make any hiring decision. You can save quite a bit of money by asking for price quotes. You want to get quotes from at least five contractors in order to know what you should be paying.
If you’re away from home during the day, raise the temperature setting on your air conditioner to save money. The house will heat up, but not too much. Leaving your heating or cooling running full blast while you are away is a waste of money and energy.
Hvac System
Handling a faulty HVAC system represents a serious headache for any homeowner. The smartest homeowners will study their HVAC system prior to a problem ever occurring. Keep the information from this article handy so you can solve and issues that arise quickly and at a reasonable cost.
AC units will tend to get ice on them due to the cold. Freezes also occur in your drain line. These freezes are easily confused as leaks to the untrained eye. If you see this, immediately put your thermostat on the fan setting to turn off your compressor. This problem will need to be handled by a professional, even though the fan will probably help with the ice situation.