A properly running HVAC unit makes home really enjoyable. If your system breaks, it will become a nightmare for those without experience. Learning how to maintain your unit minimizes the chances of a breakdown; these tips below.
Before calling someone to repair your system, make sure you know what kind of HVAC system you actually have. Know what the manufacturer’s name is, which particular model you have and what’s gone on with the unit in the past. This will ensure that you can give your new contractor all the information they need.
Clean your condenser’s fan blades and coils each spring to ensure that your condenser fan operates at it’s best. Clean off any leaves or debris from your condenser unit.
Turn the power off first so you don’t get hurt or break something. Next, pop the grill off, pull out the blades and start cleaning them and the unit itself off gently.
Before you choose an HVAC contractor, have an idea in your mind of what needs to be done. If you can’t describe the problem, you may not get an accurate quote. Being unable to explain what has been already done will make it even harder. Learn this information to start with.
Leaves and debris can wreak havoc with your HVAC unit. Make sure the fan’s grill is cleaned frequently when the fall. The fan must stay clear in order to function, and if it is clogged, it could cause your system to break down.
Have your heating and cooling system checked twice a year at the least. This should happen in the fall and malfunctions.
Avoid showering your outdoor unit with grass clippings when you mow the lawn. Make sure you shoot the clippings in the other direction from the unit. The same should happen if you are blowing leaves, so be especially careful when you are going by your exterior HVAC devices whenever you are moving debris.
During your service visit, the contractor will oil parts, inspect the motor and the freon levels. These few simple things will boost the performance of your system.
Fan Setting
If you want things to be more efficient, get new units outside or have your current one moved into the shade. It will help you save on your energy bill when you do this.
Air conditioners sometimes ice up at times. The drain line may also freeze over. If this happens, immediately put your thermostat on the fan setting to turn off your compressor. You should leave the repair to a professional, even if switching it to its fan setting starts making the ice melt.
Look for calculators online to truly understand what size of unit you need for your room or home. Look at the manual or on the manufacturer website for this information.
Keep your air conditioner off when people aren’t home to save you money. You may want to turn your unit off if your house will not become extremely hot or cold. If it is on all day, it is trying to maintain a cool temperature constantly, using a great deal of electricity to fight the heat.
Companies that are around awhile have track records that haven’t been. It is riskier to hire a long history.
Ask people that you know and family for their HVAC contractor recommendations. People that have gotten great work done in the past generally love to share this information. This will also let you should avoid.
Sometimes, air conditioners collect ice. Freezing drain lines are also possible and can be mistaken for leaks. If this happens, disable the compressor by switching the thermostat to run the fan only. Once you know the problem, contact a local HVAC professional and let them know what’s going on in your system.
Contractors determine their own fee levels, so make sure you get quotes from several contractors before you make any hiring decision. You can save quite a bit of money when you call different companies for many quotes. You should try to contact 5 to 6 contractors to find out what reasonable rates are.
Think about having a radiant barrier in your attic so support the efficient functioning of your HVAC system. It ensures that your unit stays hot outside. You may even use your attic space if it is done right.
Ask your friends and relations for their HVAC contractor recommendations. People that have gotten great work done in the past generally love to share the information they know about it. This can also help you learn the names of those companies that you should avoid.
Check for duct leaks if your unit seems to not up to snuff. When you get leaks repaired, you’ll find that the testing paid for itself.
Figure out the direction your home faces in order to make your HVAC system more efficient. The less amount of heat inside of your home, the less time that the AC has to work.
Have you been thinking about buying a new HVAC system? Many considerations must be scrutinized. Systems have a rating based on how well the system is able to cool or heat an area well. You are wise to err on the side of a bigger unit rather than a smaller one.
If you HVAC unit is making a clicking sound, look immediately to see if there is an obstruction. Sometimes there is debris interferes with the cooling system fans. Look carefully at it before calling in a service technician.
Make certain they have tight seals to keep air can’t seep in. You can hire someone to test them all for you and often this testing is free.
Measure the area that needs cooling before buying a unit. You’ll need about 20 BTU per square foot of living space. If you have multiple rooms to cool, be sure to add their square footage together.
You should now know more about your HVAC unit. Without routine maintenance, disaster is inevitable. Thankfully you found this article, and now you’re able to use the awesome tips here to assist you in figuring out what to do with your HVAC system.