The comfort of a home is heated and cooled properly. This is why your HVAC system is constantly checked and you ensure it is properly working. If you aren’t taking care of your system, then your repair costs can mount while your living conditions deteriorate. Here are some tips to help you started.
Know what type of your HVAC system before looking for a repair person.This will ensure that you can give your chosen contractor all the information they need.
If you have some problems with the HVAC system, check things out yourself prior to calling in a technician. This will help the contractor determine where the problem is and how to fix it.
Know what work you need before you select an HVAC contractor.It will be hard for a contractor to provide you a price estimate over the phone without knowing what your current setup is. It will be way more difficult for him to assist you can’t figure out what they need to do.
Clean your fan blades and coils come spring. Clean the outside of your external condenser unit.
Clean the debris on an external condenser unit. Debris can pile up at rates that increase during rainy or windy weather, bringing potential damage with it. It can cause it to overheat.
Grass Clippings
Don’t let grass clippings pile up against your outside unit. Aim the grass clippings in a different direction from the other direction. This also applies when you are taking care of the leaves in the yard.
Lubricate the oil ports on your condenser at least once a year. You can easily find these ports as they have a rubber or metal caps. Use a lightweight, and put 10 drops or fewer in each port, putting 10 drops in each port.
Turn off any outdoor condensers you have when the weather turns cold. This means that you should turn it off to prevent damage if the temperature drops below 60ºF to avoid damage. This helps your system remain in good condition for many years.
A programmable thermostat can help you save money on your power bills. Some can even be controlled from a PC or other device.
Look for air conditioner sizing calculators online to help you determine the size of unit you need for your home. Look at the manual to determine the manufacturer website 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. It is always risky to hire someone who does not have a contractor with little experience.
Ask around so you can find a HVAC contractor. People who’ve had a good experience are usually willing to tell of their contractor. This can also help you to figure out some names of those companies that you should avoid.
Contractors determine their own fee levels, so make sure that you acquire multiple estimates. You should save some cash if you take the time to call around before you decide. You want to get quotes from at least five contractors to determine what reasonable rates are.
Figure out the direction your home faces in order to make 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.
Measure the area that requires air conditioner shopping.You will need 20 BTU for each square foot of room space. If you have a lot of rooms to keep cool, combine their square footage in your calculations.
If all you have is a corner spot, make sure your unit permits airflow to be redirected.
Ask a contractor about their experience.You need to verify they have the type of work on your particular system.
Any HVAC contractor or installer should have an emergency hotline. They must be able to reach your home at any time, no matter how extreme the weather or what time of day it may be.
Some contractors will attempt to add charges on material fees and other charges. Having a good written contract will let you avoid issues like this.
Cover your condenser in the weather becomes less than optimal. This will help it last longer when it is not in use. Use the fan setting only to avoid straining the condenser unit.
Always follow up on any references provided to you receive for an HVAC contractor.
This tells you the number of BTUs your new system will need to keep your home comfortable.
Consider a programmable thermostat installed.This lowers your energy bills as it constantly adjusts your lifestyle.
Use a contractor that installs and uses Energy Star products.This will ensure that the EPA standards for efficiency. This means that they can help you save money on your expenses throughout the year.
Be sure you get an estimate that’s written from an HVAC estimates. It pays to get your agreement in writing. There are many jobs that require you to get multiple estimates of the estimate. This can ensure you receive good deal on your service. Compare various elements of the estimates you are offered.
You now have an idea of what it takes to keep an HVAC system running great. Do not allow it to fail on you when you do not pay attention to maintaining it regularly. Use what you’ve learned here to keep things working right so you don’t get home and find out there’s a disaster on your hands.