It is frustrating to have a failing HVAC system when the weather is at it’s peak.Learning as much as possible about the best way to locate the right company to repair old equipment or install new. Read this article to get started on to do just that.
Know what you need before you hire a contractor. A contractor cannot give an accurate estimate without looking at your system. If you are unable to explain the work that needs to be taken care of, the conversation will be even less fruitful. So, know this information in advance.
If your HVAC is running into problems, check things out yourself prior to calling in a technician. This will help the repairman determine what the problem is and how to fix it.
Clean your condenser’s fan and coils when the weather begins to warm. Clean off any leaves or debris from your condenser unit regularly.
Every spring you need to make sure your condenser fan’s coils and blades on the fan part are clean. First, turn off the power so that nothing will move as you are working on it. Next, remove the grill, take the blades and clean them gently, then clean the actual unit.
Clean the debris that accumulates on your condenser units. You never know when things can pile up, especially after a windy or rainy storm, and that can ruin your system. It can also cause your system to malfunction by overheating.
Turn it off so nothing moves.Then, take the grill off, pull the blades out, and begin cleaning the unit and them gently.
Many homeowners forget to oil their condenser at least once per year, but it is required. You’ll find these ports are covered with a metal or rubber cap. Use SAE 20 oil that is lightweight and detergent free, and put ten drops or fewer into each one. Make sure not to overfill them.
Grass Clippings
Don’t get grass clippings pile up against your outdoor condenser. Aim your grass clippings in a direction away from your unit. This also applies to leaf blowing and any other yard work that results in the yard.
Have your heating and cooling system inspected twice a year. Check into it twice a year before you head into the hot and cold months. Even if everything seems fine, check things out to find potential problems.
Your outdoor HVAC unit may suffer when your trees lose their leaves. Make sure the fan’s grill is cleaned often once nearby trees start shedding their leaves. The fan needs to have an unobstructed path for air to enter the unit, and if it becomes blocked, you’ll have a lot of headaches eventually.
Lubricate the oil ports on your fan condenser at least once each year. These ports are often covered by a rubber or metal caps. Use a lightweight, and put 10 drops or fewer in each port, but make sure to avoid overfilling them.
If you are a home owner, replace whatever single pane windows you have with more efficient double-paned versions. During the summer, the use of double-pane windows will help keep the cool air locked inside of the home. Likewise, heat is better retained during the winter.
Put outdoor units in the shade.
It is always a good idea to replace single-paned windows for double pane ones. This same effect also helps keep it warm air in the winter months.
Always take the time to check out the reputation of any HVAC contractor before you consider hiring them. Check with the BBB (Better Business Bureau), and look them up on review sites online to see what previous customers have to say about their experience. This will help you to choose a contractor that is of high quality.
During the visit, the system motor will be inspected, inspect the motor and the freon levels. This ensures your system run better.
Don’t ever let your house get dangerously high. Air conditioners really can only cool a home by just twenty degrees in a reasonable amount of time. If your home become 100F or more, you will only be able to cool it down to 80. This won’t be a safe and comfortable temperature for you to sleep in.
Ask people that you know and trust for contractor recommendations. Anyone that has previously needed work done on their HVAC unit are more than happy to tell you their experiences. You can also get company names that you should stay away from.
Research the reputation of companies before hiring them.Check with different references to determine the BBB and look for your situation. Doing these things beforehand will allow you make a smart decision.
Companies that are well established have a better record than those that haven’t been. Hiring a contractor may be taking a considerable risk.
You should think about putting in a radiant barrier in order to help your system run efficiently. It will block the heat and lower the energy necessary to keep your home cool in the summertime. You may suddenly find that the attic even looks like a great option for another bedroom!
It can feel daunting to choose an HVAC contractor without having the right information. The process isn’t bad when you are educated about it. It is hoped you are now prepared for any future issues with your system.