It can be difficult for homeowners to know where to turn when their heating or cooling system isn’t working properly. To prevent real inconvenience and misery, learn all you can on the topic. The following article is to assist homeowners in finding the help they require.
Before you call someone to help you fix your system, be sure to know what sort of system you have in place. It is important to understand what model it is and which brand it is. Also, if it has been serviced before, you should have that information handy. This makes sure your contractor will be sufficiently prepared.
Know what type of your HVAC system you currently have before looking for a repair person. This will enable you to give the contractor the information that can help them.
If your HVAC system is acting up, take a look around the house prior to calling a contractor. This information will help the repairman determine what the problem is and how to fix it.
Be sure to regularly clean debris from external condenser units. Debris can pile up after a storm, bringing potential damage with it. Overheating may be the result if you don’t.
Know what you want done before you hire a contractor. A contractor cannot give an over-the-phone estimate without looking at your system. It will be way more difficult for him to assist you over the phone without the information readily available.
Clean your fan blades and coils when the weather begins to warm. Clean the outside of your condenser as well.
Avoid showering your outdoor unit with grass clippings when you mow the lawn. Make certain the debris goes away from it. This applies when you are taking care of the leaves in the yard.
Clean the debris that accumulates on your condenser units. You never know when things can pile up, like right after it’s windy or rains, and that can ruin your system. It can cause a disaster with your system to malfunction by overheating.
Your HVAC system could suffer when trees lose leaves. Make sure the unit’s fan grill is cleaned frequently when the fall. The fan must not have anything in the way so that air can flow into it, and if debris is blocking this air flow, then your system could suffer.
You want to put the outdoor compressor device in a shaded area. Your unit won’t have to work as hard to cool the inside air if the outside air it sucks from is cooler.
10 Drops
Lubricate the oil ports on your condenser once a year. You will notice these ports as they have a rubber or metal cap. Use a lightweight, and put 10 drops or fewer in each port, putting 10 drops in each port.
Have your HVAC serviced at least yearly. Ideally, you should have it looked at in the spring and fall so you know everything is set for the hot and cold months. Even if everything seems okay, it doesn’t hurt to check things out.
Be sure to have the HVAC unit in your home checked about two times every year. This should be checked often for debris and again in the spring.
It is always a good idea to replace single-paned windows with ones that have double pane ones. This also helps keep it warm air in during the winter months.
Regularly having your HVAC system serviced can help keep your heating and cooling bills down. During your service visit, the serviceman will inspect the unit’s motor, oil the unit’s moving parts and ensure the unit has proper freon levels. Small problems can occur in any of these areas and lead to serious issues if ignored for too long.
Look for air conditioner sizing calculators online to truly understand what size of unit is necessary for your home. Look at the manual to determine the recommended size for this information.
Companies that are around awhile have a better record than those that can help you decide if they’re worth your money and time. Hiring a new contractor may be taking a considerable risk.
Do your homework on a number of HVAC companies before selecting the one that has the best reputation and service record. You may also want to check with the BBB for information. When done in advance you can be sure of making a sound decision.
Ask around so you are looking for a HVAC contractor. People that have had great service are usually more than willing to tell of it. This can also help you should avoid hiring.
Contractors are responsible for their own charges and fees, so make sure to get multiple quotes.You will be likely to save a lot of cash if you take the time to call around before you decide. You want to call at least a handful of contractors in order to know what reasonable rates are.
Ask those you know for the name of a great HVAC technician, should you need one. Those who have had a great experience should have no issue giving you this info. It’s also important to do this to learn which companies should not be contracted for work.
No one can deny that it is disastrous to face life with a broken air conditioner in the heat of summer or a failed heating system in the cold of winter. However, with the right information, such disasters can be avoided. These tips will put you in the best possible position.