The way your home can always be a desirable temperature is if you are properly heating and cooling it. That is why it is important to keep your HVAC has to be in tip top shape. If you’re not able to take care of it, it can lead to expensive repairs and an uncomfortable way of living. Here are some tips to help you keep your HVAC system running smoothly.
Before making that repair phone call, make sure you know the specifics about your particular system. Know the brand name and model number. It is also helpful to have the maintenance history. This makes sure your contractor will be sufficiently prepared.
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 could overheat and cause your system to malfunction by overheating.
Turn it 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 hire a contractor until you know a little about what you are facing. You might not be able to get a price quote unless you let the contractor see your current system first. It will be more difficult for him to assist you over the phone without the information readily available. Learn this information to start with.
Leaves falling from trees can damage your HVAC unit. Make sure the fan’s grill often once nearby trees start shedding their leaves.The fan needs unobstructed air flow, and if it becomes blocked, it could cause your system to break down.
10 Drops
When selecting a location for an outdoor compressor, opt for a shady area, if possible. This will limit the work that it has to do.
Lubricate your condenser at least once each year. They generally have a rubber or metal cap. Use SAE 20 oil that is non-detergent and lightweight, and put 10 drops or fewer in each port, putting 10 drops in each port.
Put your outdoor condensers in places with shade.
If the house is yours or you’re permitted to, replace the windows that are single pane with windows that are double pane. Double pane windows help minimize your air conditioning use in the summer by keeping the cooler air inside your home. This will also help you keep in heat when it gets cold.
It is always a good idea to replace single-paned windows with ones that have double panes. This same effect also helps keep it warm air in the winter.
A programmable thermostat can help you save money on your power bills. Some can even be controlled from your smart phone or computer.
In order for your HVAC system to run more efficiently, think about putting a radiant barrier in your attic. This device helps block the heat from the outside, which reduces your dependency on your HVAC system, as well as your bill. If done right, you can even start using the attic as living space.
Companies with proven track record that you can use to decide if they are worth the time and money. Hiring a new contractor may be taking a considerable risk.
Ask friends and trust for their HVAC contractor recommendations. People who have used and if they are worth calling. This can also help you avoid scammers.
To run your HVAC at full efficiency, you must have efficient doors and windows in place as well. Each of these should have an airtight seal on them. Talk to a professional to determine the best way to do this.
Think about having a radiant barrier in your attic so your HVAC system. It will make sure you won’t have to use more energy to keep your home and the outside. You could even find that you can use the attic as part of your living space if it is done right.
Are you thinking of getting a new HVAC system that’s new? There are things you should consider. Systems have a rating based on how effectively they can cool or heat an area. You are wise to err on the side of a unit that is slightly too large for your needs than a smaller one.
You should replace the filter on your HVAC system once every month. This represents an easy way to keep your system working well. Filters are cheap, and changing them regularly adds up to long term savings.
Figure out which direction your home faces in order to make your HVAC system can work better. The less your home is heated, the less time your air conditioner will have to work.
Make certain they are tightly sealed so air inside. You can hire a professional.
Understand where the air flows in your home and use that information to determine where to put your AC unit. If you have to put the unit in a corner, use one that doesn’t blow into the wall.
Square Footage
Measure the living area that requires air conditioning. You generally need 20 BTUs per square footage of space. If you need to cool multiple rooms, combine all the square footage.
Get references from anyone you are considering hiring. You need to know if previous clients have gotten what they needed, like timely service within their budget. That way, you can avoid scammers more easily.
Pick out an HVAC business that understands the unit and knows what to do. The most reliable companies make sure their technicians will always be on schedule and keep appointments. A licensed technician should also easily diagnose any problems with your HVAC. After a quick diagnosis, they should then know how to deal with the problem.
If it must be in a corner, get a unit where the air won’t be trapped against the wall.
You should cover the condenser on your HVAC unit during the winter. When the condenser is not being used, the cover will help it to last much longer. Never use the compressor when the temperature outside is below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid placing a strain on your unit by using the fan instead.
You should now have a better idea of how to keep that HVAC unit running smoothly. Paying close attention to maintenance will help you avoid problems. Use the suggestions given above so you don’t find one day that your home is either too cold or too hot.