A properly running HVAC system can make one’s home really enjoyable.However, if your system fails, it can be a nightmare.Learning how to maintain your HVAC system begins with the chances of a breakdown; these tips will prove very useful.
Keeping the outside condenser clean of debris and leaves will improve the system’s efficiency. Except when you do superficial cleaning, you need to always make sure the power is off on the unit. Clean the outdoor condenser as well.
Know the name and type of system before looking for a repair person. This will let you know that you’re able to give your chosen contractor the information that can help them.
If your HVAC is giving you problems, check out your home before calling a contractor. This information will help the contractor determine where the problem is.
Every spring you need to make sure your condenser fan’s coils and blades on the fan part are clean. Before you get started, cut the power. Then, pop off its grills, pull the blades out, and begin cleaning the unit and them gently.
Know what you need before you select an HVAC contractor. It will be hard for a contractor to give you a price estimate on the phone without knowing what your current setup is. It can be harder if you can’t figure out what they need to do.
Clean your fan blades and coils prior to summertime. Clean the outside of your external condenser unit regularly.
You need to lubricate parts of your fan condenser. They generally have a rubber or metal cap on them. Put 10 drops of lightweight, non-detergent SAE oil in each port. Be careful not to use too much.
Turn it off first so nothing moves.Then, pop off its grills, pull the blades out, and gently clean them as well as the unit itself.
Don’t let grass clippings on your outdoor condenser. Aim your grass in a direction from the unit. This applies to leaf blowing and any other yard work that results in the yard.
Place your HVAC unit in the shade to boost efficiency. As it brings in cool air to cool, you will save a lot of money.
Put your outdoor condensers in the shade.
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.
Make certain you properly investigate any company prior to hiring them. It is always wise to check their status with the BBB. In addition, check out customer reviews that appear online. These steps are going to help to ensure your decision is a wise one.
During your service visit, professionals can help by inspecting the system’s motor, oil the moving parts and check the freon levels in the system. These simple things will help your system to run at peak performance.
Don’t let your house get way too hot to where it’s dangerous. An AC unit will reduce the temperature of your home approximately twenty degrees in a fair time. If your home gets above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, then you will only be able to reasonably cool to around 80. This won’t be a safe and comfortable temperature for you to sleep in.
Before you hire someone from an HVAC place, figure out how long they’ve been doing this kind of work. Established companies that are doing well will usually be the best ones to go with. Working with someone that does not yet have a reputation in the business is a bit riskier.
Research and check the companies before hiring them. Check with different references to determine the BBB and look for reviews posted by former customers. This will help you make the right choice.
Air conditioners sometimes ice up at times. The drain line may also freeze over. If you see this, disable the compressor by turning your thermostat to the fan only setting. If the issue persists, call a professional.
A radiant barrier improves the efficiency of your HVAC. This mechanism will prevent outside heat from coming in, reducing your energy consumption when cooling. If this is installed correctly, it will give you the ability to actually use your attic as extra space to live in.
Look for calculators online to truly understand what size of unit is necessary for your room or home. Look at the manual or on the recommended size for this information.
Companies with proven track records that can help you decide if they’re worth your money and time. Hiring a contractor can be risky.
Be sure to test for leaks in the ducts if your system seems inefficient. Call the utility company to test for you, it will usually be cheaper than a contractor. This testing can have large financial benefits.
Contractors determine their own fee levels, so make sure that you acquire multiple estimates. You can save a bit of money when you call different companies for price quotes. You may want to call at least five contractors in order to know what reasonable rates are.
Think about getting a radiant barrier installed in your attic so your HVAC system can run better. It blocks outside heat from coming in which will make sure you won’t have to use more energy to keep your unit stays hot outside. You could even use the attic as part of your living space if it is done right.
It may be tempting to hire the first HVAC company in the phone book, but it’s important to get references from them. Call and ask if their service was everything they expected, timely, and that it stayed on budget. Also, it will prevent you from getting robbed.
Your HVAC unit is vital to your home. By failing to do routine inspections, you’re setting yourself up for failure. Luckily, this article should have given you tips to keep your HVAC working properly.