It can be difficult for homeowners to know where to go when the HVAC system begins to fail. To avoid creating costly repairs, it is worth any time spent to become familiar with the subject. This article was put together to help homeowners get the help they need for their HVAC unit.
Know the name and type of system before calling someone to fix it. This will enable you know that you’re able to give your chosen contractor the information that can help them.
If problems arise with the HVAC system, do a tour of your house before you call in help. This will help the contractor determine where the problem is.
Clean any debris that accumulates on your condenser units. Debris can pile up at rates that increase during rainy or windy weather, bringing potential damage with it. It could overheat and cause your unit.
Turn it off so you don’t get hurt or break something. Then, take the grill off, pull the blades out, and begin cleaning the unit and them gently.
Don’t get grass clippings pile up against your outside unit. Aim your grass cuttings in a direction away from the unit. This also applies when you are taking care of the leaves in debris.
Have the HVAC system checked twice a year. This should happen in the fall and again in the spring.
It is always a good idea to replace single-paned windows for double panes.This will also help you keep it warm in heat when it gets cold.
A programmable thermostat is a simple way to help you save money on air conditioning bill. Some can even be controlled from your smart phone or computer.
When they come out for a service visit, oil the parts that move, and they will oil all the moving parts. These easy to do things will help your system to run its best.
Fan Setting
Air conditioners tend to ice up.The drain line might also freeze up.If this happens, change the setting on your thermostat to the fan setting and this will disable the compressor. You can call a HVAC professional, but switching to the fan setting should start to melt the ice.
Ask for helpful information when you can find a reputable HVAC contractor. People who have had a good experience are usually willing to tell of their contractor. This is also be used to see who you should avoid hiring.
Contractors charge different rates, so make sure you get quotes from several contractors before you make any hiring decision. You can save tons of money this way. Call at least four or five different HVAC specialist to find the best deal possible.
Check the ducts to find any leaks if your existing system is not up to snuff. If you do end up paying, this testing will pay for itself.
If there’s a clicking in your HVAC unit, immediately check for any type of obstruction. Often the issue is some sort of debris that’s hitting fans in the cooling system. Take a look for yourself before calling a technician out.
Make certain they have tight seals to keep air can’t seep in.You can hire a professional to test them.
Measure the area you wish to cool before going air conditioner shopping. You generally need 20 BTU per square foot of the room. If you need to cool multiple rooms, combine all the square footage.
Always make sure to get some references prior to hiring any contractor.
Any HVAC contractor or installer should have a 24-hour emergency number available to customers around the clock. They should be there when you need them, be it in the middle of a heatwave or in the worst snowstorm of the year.
Some contractors attempt to charge you later for things such as material fees and fuel charges. A written contract will really help you if something like this materializes.
Cover your condenser unit for protection in the winter.This helps the condenser last longer if it is protected when it is not using it. Use the fan instead to avoid straining the condenser unit.
Always check out any references that you by an HVAC contractor.
This information is used to determine the BTU your system has to be.
Consider have a programmable thermostat. This sort of device will save you a lot of money in terms of energy because it allows your utility bill and give your unit needed rest.
Keep your HVAC system running efficiently and enjoy clean air by cleaning the heating ducts from time to time. Look often at the ducts to make sure they are in good shape. Damaged ducts could increase your electric bill.
Make sure that you keep all owner’s manual is anytime the system is running. The manual will help you out if you’re dealing with problems.
The home’s heating and cooling system is integral if you want to be comfortable. But, if they have armed themselves with knowledge in advance, the situation need not be so dire. The tips from this article can help the homeowner make the best decisions about HVAC and steer clear of the worse case scenario.