It is frustrating to need work done to your HVAC system when it is super hot or super cold.Learning as much as you can about your HVAC system will help you choose the topic means being able to make decisions down the road. Read on and you will get the topic right now.
By the end of spring, the fan blades and coils of your condenser should be thoroughly cleaned, so operation can proceed with greater efficiency. Make sure your power is off before doing more than cleaning, such as working on the unit. Leaves and debris can build up inside the unit and cause damage.
Know what type of your HVAC system you currently have before looking for a repair person. This makes sure the contractor has the information they will need.
If you’ve been having trouble with an HVAC system, tour your home before calling a technician. This information will help the contractor determine what the problem is.
Do not allow grass clippings to cover the outdoor unit of your HVAC system. When you work with your lawn mower, make sure it spits the grass to the side opposite of your unit. This includes grass clippings and leaves.
Clean your condenser’s fan blades and coils prior to summertime. Clean off any leaves or debris from your condenser unit.
Grass Clippings
If the condenser fan has oil parts, then you need to lubricate it at least once per year. You’ll see that the ports here are closed with a rubber or metal cap. Your oil should be an SAE 20. This particular oil is very lightweight and it only requires about 10 drops per port.
Don’t let grass clippings on your outdoor condenser. Aim the grass clippings in a direction away from your unit. This also applies when you are taking care of the leaves in debris.
Leaves falling from trees can damage your system. 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, then your system could suffer.
Put your outdoor unit in places with shade. The air in the shade is cooler and can help save on energy costs.
Put outdoor condensers in the shade if you are installing them.
Have the HVAC system checked twice a year at least yearly. This should be done in the fall and malfunctions.
Consider getting a programmable thermostat for your AC. It will help save on your heating and cooling costs by turning itself down at certain times. Additionally, some models of programmable thermostats actually allow you to control them remotely from your office computer or cell phone.
It is always a good idea to replace single-paned windows for double panes. This same effect also keeps warm air in heat when it gets cold.
During the service check, the contractor will oil parts, oil the different moving parts as well as check the system’s freon levels. These few simple things are going to allow your system to run its peak performance.
Your home should not have temperatures that are too hot. Even the best air conditioners can only realistically cool your home approximately 20 degrees Farenheit. So, if your home temp reaches 100 degrees, your air conditioning will only bring that temp down to about 80 degrees. If humidity is high, this temp is still unsafe for people.
Research the reputation of companies that you consider using. Check them out at the best one for reviews posted by former customers. Doing this makes it more likely that you hire the best company for your HVAC needs.
Air conditioners sometimes ice up at times.The drain line might also freeze up. If you see this happen, switch your thermostat to fan only to disable the compressor. You should call a pro to fix this problem, but switching to the fan setting should start to melt the ice.
Did you know an AC unit can freeze? Freezes also occur in your drain line. These freezes are easily confused as leaks to the untrained eye. Turn your unit to the fan setting to turn off the compressor. If the problem persists be sure to call in a professional.
Look for air conditioner sizing calculators online to help you determine the size of unit you need for your home. Look at the manual or on the manufacturer website for air conditioners.
Ask friends and trust for contractor recommendations. People that have had quality work done are worth calling. This will also let you avoid scammers.
Your friends or family likely have recommendations for a local HVAC specialist. Someone who has used a contractor in the past is generally willing to let you know what they thought about it. This can also help you learn the names of those companies that you should avoid.
Think about getting a radiant barrier in your attic so support the efficient functioning of your HVAC system. It blocks outside heat from coming in which will make sure you won’t have to use more energy to keep your home and the outside. You may even find that you can use your attic space more effectively.
Check for duct leaks if your unit seems to not up to snuff. When the leaks are repaired, the tests will pay for themselves.
Install a radiant barrier in your attic to boost HVAC efficiency. It can help keep heat out during the hot summer months, which means you will lower your power bills. You may suddenly find that the attic even looks like a great option for another bedroom!
Figure out which direction your home is facing so your HVAC system more efficient. The less your home is heated, the fewer occasions you have to use your air conditioner.
If you hear a clicking noise coming from your HVAC unit, see if there is any debris in it. The problem may be debris hitting the fans of the cooling system.Look at it before you call for help.
If your current system isn’t working well enough, test out the ducts for leaks. Your local energy company may do such testing at a reduced cost or maybe even for free. If a leak is found, the money spent on finding and repairing the leak will pay for itself.
You may feel a bit overwhelmed when your system needs maintenance. Still, a little research goes a long way. Now you should be prepared to deal with any issues.