Not everyone knows about working on HVAC service and contractors. This fact can pose a problem when an unexpected emergency occurs.
Before making that repair phone call, make sure you know the specifics about your particular system. 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 will let you know that you’re able to give the contractor the information that can help them.
Know the name and type of system you currently have before looking for a repair person. This will let you know that you’re able to give the contractor the information they might need.
If your HVAC is giving you problems, do a tour of your house before you call in help. This information will help the contractor determine what the problem is.
Clean your fan and coils when the weather begins to warm. Except when cleaning the outside, turn the unit off when performing any type of maintenance. Clean off any leaves or debris from your external condenser unit.
Know what work you want done before you hire a contractor.It will be difficult for a contractor to give you with an estimate over the phone without knowing what your current system. It will be more hard if you over the phone without the information readily available.
Clean the condenser on your debris 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 could overheat and cause a disaster with your system to malfunction by overheating.
Make sure clippings don’t get on your outdoor units when your mowing your lawn. Make certain the debris goes away from it. The same goes for when you blow leaves, so make sure your are careful when moving any debris in the vicinity of your HVAC devices.
Turn the power off first so nothing moves. Then, take the grill off, pull the blades out, and begin cleaning the unit and them gently.
Put your outdoor condensers in the shade.
When the weather starts to cool down, make sure you turn off outdoor condenser units. If it’s lower than 60 degrees, the time has come to turn it off. This will help keep it in good condition for many years.
Be sure you have twice annual HVAC system checks. This should happen in the fall and again in the spring.
Air conditioners sometimes ice up at times.The drain line may also freeze over. If this happens, switch your thermostat to fan only to disable the compressor. You should leave the repair to a professional, but switching to the fan will make the ice melt.
It can be confusing to figure out what the correct HVAC system size is for your home, but you can solve this with the help of a sizing calculator. A unit that is bigger than you need simply isn’t efficient. Check the manual it comes with for the information you need.
Companies that are well established have track records that haven’t been. Hiring a contractor comes with an element of risk.
Ask friends and relations for their HVAC contractor recommendations. People that have had quality work done are usually more than willing to share the information they know about it. This can also a great way to get names of businesses that you should be avoided.
If you would like your HVAC unit to be more efficient, simply look at where the front of your home faces. Strategically placed trees can block sunlight and help keep the home cooler without the use of an AC unit. You will reduce the need for AC when your home is naturally cooler.
There are many sites now that allow customers to share their experiences with contractors. This is a good way to find contractors that do good work and ones that are poor.
A radiant barrier improves the efficiency of your HVAC unit. 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 could even use your attic space if it is done right.
Replace the air filter monthly. It’s a simple thing to do to keep it running properly. Filters cost only a few dollars, so it’s a small monthly price to pay.
Are you looking at purchasing a new HVAC system installed? There are things to think about first. Systems have a rating based on how effectively they can cool or heat an area. You are better off purchasing a unit rather than a bit too small.
Figure out the direction your home is facing so your HVAC system more efficient. The less amount of heat inside of your home, the less you’ll have to use your air conditioner to cool things off.
Before you hire a HVAC contractor, you should find out what their experience is. They should have a good history of working with HVAC units. 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.
If there’s a clicking in your HVAC unit, see if there is any debris in it. Sometimes there is debris interferes with the cooling system fans. Check the fan and coil before calling a contractor.
Square Footage
When it’s winter time, get your condenser unit covered so it can be safe. Doing this extends the life of your condenser when it is not in use. Additionally, it’s important to remember not to utilize the compressor if your outside temperatures drop below 69 degrees. Do this by simply turn on the fan so that you don’t cause the unit unnecessary strain.
Measure the living area that requires air conditioning. You generally need 20 BTUs per square footage of room space. If you need to cool multiple rooms, be sure to add their square footage together.
Nobody like dealing with HVAC issues. But, taking time to study the topic makes the process much easier. These tips will help you get the job done right.
When you get a contractor to come by to offer a quote to you, make sure they do include heat-loss calculation. This factors in the amount of BTU your heating system will consume when regulating the temperature in your house. They need to consider all doors and windows, insulation and room sizes.