Do you need an HVAC system? If so, you may be feeling overwhelmed by everything out there. How will you know exactly which HVAC system is the right system for you? How big? Which features? Shopping may not be easy. If you want to avoid becoming overwhelmed, the tips below should help make the process a bit simpler.
Always make sure you are up-to-date about your HVAC unit. 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. That way you can provide the contractor with all the necessary information.
Before an HVAC expert comes to your home to do any repair work, walk around the home and check out the temps in every room. Find out which rooms are hot and which are cold. That will help your repairman figure out where the problem is, and how he can fix it easily and quickly.
Before you call someone to help you fix your system, be sure to know what sort of system you have in place. Get the brand, model name, and if you can you should get the maintenance history out. This will facilitate the process when your contractor asks for this information.
Clean the condenser coils and fan at the beginning of the year to help the unit run efficiently. Be safe and turn off the power supply before working on your HVAC unit. Also, make sure you remove any debris or leaves from the condenser unit outside.
Make sure you have your HVAC system checked at least twice a year. Ideally, you should have it looked at in the spring and fall so you know everything is set for the hot and cold months. You should have it looked at even if no problems are occurring; there could still be a problem or potential problem.
During cold weather , be sure to turn off outdoor condenser units. To prevent damage, turn off your unit if the outside temperature is less than 60 degrees. This will help keep it in good condition for many years.
If you want your energy costs to go down, have the heating an cooling system you own serviced every year at least. During the service check, the system motor will be inspected, the moving parts will be oiled and the freon levels will be checked All of these little jobs will add up to big savings in energy use, with the improved efficiency.
Make sure that your AC is turned off when you are not using it. Sure, the temp will rise, but no one is home anyway. Leaving your heating or cooling running full blast while you are away is a waste of money and energy.
Keep outside condenser fans running smoothly by cleaning fan blades and coils before the summer begins. Make sure your power is off before doing more than cleaning, such as working on the unit. Take away all of the debris as well.
Do not allow your house to get extremely hot. Air conditioners really can only cool a home down about 20 degrees Fahrenheit within a reasonable amount of time. If your home gets above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, you’ll only cool down to still above 80. This won’t be a healthy environment to live in.
It is possible for air conditioners to ice over. Many times people think there is a plumbing leak, but instead the drain line has water that is frozen. If this happens, turn the thermostat so it is on fan only mode, which will disable the compressor. The ice will melt. You will likely need professional help to stop the problem.
If the outside of your home has condenser units, ensure they are constantly cleaned. You don’t know when things are going to pile up, like right after it’s windy or rains, and that can ruin your system. It can also cause it to overheat.
To know how large of an air conditioner you need, look for a calculator online. If the unit is too large, it won’t cool more than a smaller unit, just less efficiently. Check your manual to figure out what the rating is from the manufacturer to be sure you’re getting the right information.
Find out how many years an HVAC company has been in business before you hire them. Someone that has been in the business for a while probably isn’t going to scam you. Hiring a new contractor comes with an element of risk.
If you hear a clicking in the HVAC unit at home, see if there are any obstructions right away. There may be particles of debris that are touching the fans. Get rid of the debris and this will no longer be an issue. Check it out yourself first before you call in the professionals.
Each spring it’s time to clean the inside of your condenser unit, including the fan and the sensitive coil. Before you do anything, however, turn the power off. Remove the grill and carefully clean the blades and surrounding areas.
To run your HVAC at full efficiency, you must have efficient doors and windows in place as well. Each of these should have an airtight seal on them. You can also hire someone to test them.
You need to measure the space of your home so you can purchase the proper size unit. You can figure out the unit you need by calculating 20 BTU per square foot. If multiple rooms need cooling, add together their square footage to reach this calculation.
Be sure to select an experienced and competent HVAC company. Good firms ensure they are always on schedule. Someone skilled in their profession should be able to come out and give you answers right away. After they figure out what is causing the problem, it should be taken care of right away.
Cover your unit when you are mowing the lawn. Aim the grass clippings in the other direction. When blowing leaves, do the same. Always take care when passing your HVAC units while moving leaves, grass or other debris.
Sometimes an HVAC specialist will offer references for other professionals. You should still do the necessary research to clear the name first. Too many people take for granted that reference are indeed legitimate, when in fact they may not be. It will just take minutes to check out a contractor, so you shouldn’t hesitate.
Take advantage of the opportunity to add a programmable thermostat when you are putting in new heating and air-conditioning or repairing your old system. This thermostat is great because it lets you regulate the temperature in your home all throughout the day and night, which in the end results in lower energy bills.
The operation of your HVAC system can be in danger when the tree leaves begin to fall. During this time of year, check and clear off the fan grill on your unit on a regular basis. The fan must stay clear in order to function, and if it gets blocked, you will have to contend with problems.
Many people find themselves confused as to what type of HVAC system they need for their location. But with the information provided above, getting what you need should be much easier. Refer to these tips as you choose your HVAC system.