A reliable HVAC system that works is important for an enjoyable home.But if you experience a failure of your HVAC system, the situation can become frustrating very quickly. Learning how to maintain your unit minimizes the tips will prove very useful.
Know what type of your HVAC system you currently have before calling someone to fix it. This will enable you to give the new contractor the necessary information.
Hvac Contractor
Know what you want done before you select an HVAC contractor. It will be hard for an HVAC contractor to provide you a price estimate over the phone if they have not seen your current system. It will be way more difficult for him to assist you can’t figure out what they need to do.
Turn it off first so nothing moves. Next, pop off the grill, put the blades out and start to gently clean them along with the unit.
Don’t let grass clippings pile up against your outside unit. Aim the grass cuttings in the other direction. This 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 needs to have an unobstructed path for air to enter the unit, and if it gets blocked, it could cause your system to break down.
Lubricate the oil ports on your fan condenser once each year. You can find these ports have a rubber or metal cap covering them. Use a lightweight, and put 10 drops or fewer in each port, but make sure to avoid overfilling them.
Put outdoor condensers in places with shade.
Turn off any outdoor condenser units when the weather turns cold. This should be done when the weather falls under 60 degrees Farenheit.This can ensure your system working well throughout the years without the cost of repairs.
It is a good idea to swap out single pane windows with ones that have double panes. This also helps keep it warm air in during the winter.
Install a thermostat to save energy costs. Some of these thermostats can even be controlled from a PC or other device.
Degrees Fahrenheit
Don’t let your house get dangerously high. Air conditioners can only cool a home down about 20 degrees Fahrenheit within a short time. If your home happens to get near 100 degrees Fahrenheit, 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.
Air conditioners sometimes ice up at times. The drain line might also freeze up.If this is something you notice, immediately put your thermostat on the fan setting to turn off your compressor. You can call a HVAC professional, but switching to the fan setting should start to melt the ice.
Companies with proven track record that you can use to decide if they are worth the time and money. It is riskier to hire someone who does not have a contractor with little experience.
There are quite a few sites out there that let customers to share their experiences with different services. This will make it easier for you to find a top notch professional.
Contractors charge different rates, so make sure to get multiple quotes. You can save some cash if you take the time to call around before you decide. You may want to call at least five contractors to determine what reasonable rates are.
Check the ducts to find any leaks if your unit seems to not up to snuff. When the leaks are repaired, the testing has paid for itself.
Make sure they have tight seals to keep air inside. You can also hire someone to test them all for you and often this testing is free.
Hvac System
Replace the air filter to keep your HVAC system every month. This is an easy thing that you can do and it will keep your HVAC system running in tip top shape.
Always get references prior to hiring any contractor.
Cover your condenser unit for protection in the winter.This will help your condenser last longer when not in use. Use the fan setting only to avoid putting strain on the unit.
Always check out any references that are given to you receive for an HVAC contractor.
Consider have a programmable thermostat. This will help you to save quite a bit of money on utilities as your system gets to rest as you do things like sleep.
Find an HVAC professional who uses Energy Star equipment. This will ensure that is required by the EPA. This will help you save more on your expenses throughout the year.
Clean your ducts on a regular basis. Look often at the ducts to make sure they are in good shape. Damaged ducts could increase your energy bill by wasting air that is warm.
Make sure your condenser unit is protected. This can easily be done by placing a thick cover on it.
Now you understand why it’s important to keep the HVAC system working properly. If you neglect to care for it, you will increase the risk of it ceasing to work when you most need it to. That could bring about a very expensive repair bill. Luckily, this article has provided you with the information you need to make sure that your HVAC unit works right.