Even though it is very important to have an HVAC system that runs optimally, most homeowners are clueless about doing this. Learning about selecting the best HVAC professional to maintain or repair your system is a wise move for any smart homeowner. The following article here is going to assist you.
Before calling for help, know the system you have. Find out the brand and model and, if possible, dig out the maintenance history. This will let you know that you’re able to give the contractor the information that can help them.
If you are having issues with your HVAC, look around your home before calling in people to help. This information will help the contractor determine what the problem is and how to fix it.
Clean the fan blades and coils come spring. Clean off any leaves or debris from your condenser unit.
Before you hire an HVAC contractor, have some sort of idea of the work that needs to be done. A contractor will be hard pressed to provide you with an over-the-phone estimate if unfamiliar with your system. In addition, you need to be able to tell the contractor what you have already tried. Learn this information to start with.
Clean the debris that accumulates on an external 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 cause a disaster with your unit.
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.
Some fan condensers may contain oil parts, and if yours does, ensure it is lubricated at least once per year. These are usually covered with rubber or metal caps. Choose a SAE 20 oil whch is lightweight and non-detergent and place 10 drops or less into each port, ensuring it doesn’t overfill.
Don’t let grass clippings on your outdoor condenser. Aim the grass cuttings in a direction from the unit. This applies to leaf blowing and any other yard work that results in debris.
Leaves falling from trees can damage your system. Make sure you clean out your fan grill is cleaned frequently when the leaves begin to fall. The fan must stay clear in order to function, and if it gets blocked, then your system could suffer.
Make sure you have your HVAC system checked at least twice a year. Most homeowners choose to have their unit inspected during the spring and the fall months. This helps prepare for the coming weather changes of summer and winter. Even if you don’t think anything’s wrong, it’s still worth an inspection.
Sae 20 Oil
Lubricate your fan condenser once a year. You can find the ports covered with rubber or metal caps. Use SAE 20 oil that is non-detergent and lightweight, detergent-free SAE 20 oil, but make sure to avoid overfilling them.
If everyone is out, turn the air conditioner off. Turning it off does allow the temperature to rise, but only so far. When you keep it on, you will be using electricity.
Put your outdoor units in the shade if you are installing them.
Be sure you have the HVAC system checks. This should be done in the fall and malfunctions.
Look for sizing calculators based on the air conditioner you have to figure out how big of a unit you need in your home. While you might think that a larger HVAC system is always better, in fact, larger systems sometimes are not the best choice for a particular space. Check the manual it comes with for the information you need.
Turn off your outdoor condenser units when it’s getting cold. This means that you should be done when the temperature drops below 60ºF to avoid damage. This will help keep the system running efficiently for many years to come.
It is always a good idea to swap out single pane windows for double panes. This will also works during the cold months to keep in heat when it gets cold.
For greater efficiency, put a radiant barrier in your attic. It will block the heat and lower the energy necessary to keep your home cool in the summertime. It it’s installed properly, you might even be able to use your attic as an extra room.
During your service visit, they will inspect the motor of the system, inspect the motor and the freon levels. These things will help your system to run at its peak performance.
Research the reputation of companies before hiring them. Check them out at the best one for reviews posted by former customers. These simple steps are going to help make a wise one.
Determine the direction that your home faces. If trees are placed strategically, you can block morning sunlight that can overheat the house. The less heat in your home, the less time your air conditioner will have to work.
Air conditioners sometimes ice up at times. The drain line might also freeze up.If this is something you notice, disable the compressor by switching the thermostat to run the fan only. You can call a HVAC professional, even if switching it to its fan setting starts making the ice melt.
Contractors charge different rates, so make sure you get quotes from several contractors before you make any hiring decision. You can save some money by asking for many quotes. Call at least four or five different HVAC specialist to find out what the rates are.
Measure the living area you wish to cool before going air conditioner shopping. You will need approximately 20 BTU per square foot, so calculate the necessary size based on that formula. Just measure your rooms and tally up the total square footage.
Are you thinking about having a new HVAC system that’s new? You need to take a few things into account. Systems have ratings according to how large an area they effectively heat or cool. You are better off purchasing a unit rather than a bit too small.
A properly functioning HVAC system is crucial in maintaining a comfortable home temperature. If you don’t know what you’re doing, a breakdown can break your heart. This information will help you decide what to do.
Before hiring a contractor to work on your HVAC system, you should inquire about the type of experience they have. He or she may not have experience working with your type of system or performing the work that you need done. While you may not know if a worker with no experience will work well or not, it’s not a good idea to take a chance with this.