A properly functioning HVAC system is something you need in a home so you have to be sure you maintain this equipment right at all times. A lot of people spend quite a bit to fix things when they don’t work right, but could have avoided such issues if they had maintained them properly. The tips found here will help you need to know about HVAC systems.
If your HVAC system us giving you issues, take a look around the house prior to calling a contractor. Figure out which rooms are too cool or warm. That knowledge can help the technician figure out what is going on.
Know what type of your HVAC system before calling someone to fix it. This makes sure the contractor has the information they will be sufficiently prepared.
If you have some problems with the HVAC system, take a look around the house prior to calling a contractor. This will help the repairman determine where the problem is.
If the fan on your condenser includes oil ports, they must be lubricated annually. They are usually fitted with a rubber or metal cap. Put 10 drops of lightweight, non-detergent SAE oil in each port. Be careful not to use too much.
Clean the debris on an external condenser units. You never know when things can pile up, like right after it’s windy or rains, and that can ruin your system. It can cause it to overheat.
Turn the power off first so you don’t get hurt or break something. Then, take the grill off, pull the blades out, and begin cleaning the unit and them gently.
Installing double paned windows can save a lot of money over single panes, so upgrade if you are able. To keep your home cool, investing in double pane windows is a must. This will also help you keep in heat when it gets cold.
Your outdoor HVAC unit may suffer when trees lose their leaves. Make sure the fan’s grill often during the fall. The fan needs unobstructed air flow, and if debris is blocking this air flow, it could cause your system to break down.
Put outdoor unit in the shade.
If there isn’t anyone at home, then there’s no need for the AC unit to be running and wasting electricity. The house will only heat to certain level and a decent HVAC system can quickly cool this down once you are home. Leaving it on all the time only makes it work harder and results in a larger utility bill.
Make sure you have your HVAC system checked twice a year. This should be checked often for debris and again in the spring.
Turn off any outdoor condenser when the weather gets cold. This should be done when the weather falls under 60 degrees Farenheit.This can keep your system running efficiently for years to come.
Sometimes, air conditioners collect ice. Freezing drain lines are also possible and can be mistaken for leaks. If this is something you notice, switch the thermostat in your home to fan only so the compressor is disabled. If the issue persists, call in help.
A programmable thermostat can help save money on your air conditioning bill. Some programmable thermostats can even be controlled from your smart phone or computer.
During the service check, the contractor will oil parts, oil the moving parts and check the freon levels in the system. These simple tasks will keep your HVAC system running at peak performance.
Go to people that you know and ask for recommendations when it is time for you to hire an HVAC contractor. People who have had a good experience are often happy to share the name of their contractor. You are likely to also hear about negative experiences.
Don’t allow your home to become dangerously hot. Air conditioners cannot sufficiently cool down 20 degrees or so within a reasonable time period. If the temperature in your home rises above 100 degrees, it will only cool off to about 80F. This is not a healthy environment to live in.
Look for calculators online to truly understand what size of unit is necessary for your room or home. Look at the manual to determine the manufacturer website for this information.
Try to get as many quotes from contractors that you can. Making some phone calls before deciding is a good way to save money. You may want to get quotes from at least five contractors in order to know what you should be paying.
Companies that are well established have track records that haven’t been. Hiring a contractor comes with an element of risk.
Ask your friends and family for their HVAC contractor recommendations. People who’ve had done in the past are usually willing to tell of it. This can also a great way to get names of those companies that should be avoided.
Replacing your unit’s air filter each month is a key maintenance task. It is the easiest way to take care of it. Filters are cheap, and changing them regularly adds up to long term savings.
As you read in the preceding article, a well-functioning HVAC system is a vital feature of your home. With luck these tips will save you money. You need to follow them; however, so you aren’t put into the position of having to spend thousands on repairing something that with a little bit of effort should have been prevented.