If you want to increase your understanding of HVAC maintenance, you’ve come to the right place. This article has the basic tips you improve your knowledge base. Take some time to read the article and you will do well.
Know what work you need before you select an HVAC contractor.It will be difficult for an HVAC contractor to provide you a price estimate over the phone if they have not seen your current system. It will be more hard if you over the phone without the information readily available.
Clean your condenser’s fan and coils when the weather begins to warm. Clean the outside of your condenser unit.
Clean any debris that accumulates on your condenser units. You never know when things can pile up, like right after it’s windy or rains, and that can ruin your system. It could overheat and cause your unit.
Turn the power 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 in a different direction away from the unit. This also applies when you are taking care of the leaves in the yard.
Have your heating and cooling system checked twice a year. This should happen in the fall and malfunctions.
Turn off outdoor condenser when it’s getting cold. This means that you should be done when the temperature drops below 60ºF to avoid damage. This simple tip will help keep your system working for many years and save you a lot on repairs.
It is always a good idea to swap out single pane windows with ones that have double panes. This also keeps warm in during the winter.
Do not let your house get extremely hot. An AC unit will reduce the internal temperature of your home approximately twenty degrees in a short time span. If your home gets above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, you would only be able to cool it down just above 80 degrees. This is not a healthy environment to live in.
Research the reputation of companies that you consider using. Check with the best one for your situation. This can help you make the best choice.
Air conditioners sometimes ice up at times. The drain line may also freeze over. If you see this happen, switch your thermostat to fan only to disable the compressor. You should leave the repair to a professional, even if switching it to its fan setting starts making the ice melt.
Contractors are responsible for their own charges and fees, so make sure to get multiple quotes.You can save tons of cash simply by doing your homework. You may want to call at least five contractors to determine what you should be paying.
A radiant barrier improves the efficiency of your HVAC unit.It will make sure you won’t have to use more energy to keep your home and the outside. You may even use the attic space more effectively.
Are you thinking about having a cooling and heating system installed? You will need to think about a few important things. Systems have a rating based on how well the system is able to cool and heat an area. You are wise to err on the side of a bigger unit that is slightly too large for your needs than purchasing one that is a bit too small.
Check for duct leaks if you you feel your unit seems to not up to snuff. When you get leaks repaired, you’ll see that the tests paid for themselves.
Determine which way your home faces.The less your home is heated, the less work your AC will have to do.
Measure the area that needs cooling before going air conditioner shopping. You generally need by calculating 20 BTU per square foot. If the unit will be cooling several rooms, sum their areas.
Pick out an HVAC business that understands the unit and works quickly to solve the problem. The most reliable companies will ensure that their technicians will always be on schedule. A knowledgeable technician should also easily diagnose any potential faults with your HVAC. Once the problem is identified, they can help resolve the problems in a timely and cost-effective manner.
Always make sure to get references from a HVAC contractor.
Some contractors will attempt to overcharge you on later for things such as material fees and fuel charges. Having a signed contract can help to avoid issues like this.
Cover your condenser in the winter time. This can help it last longer when you’re not using it. Use the fan instead to avoid putting strain on the unit.
Always check any references that are given to you receive for an HVAC contractor.
You might be surprised to discover that as much as 66% of all homes have ducts that are leaky. This alarming percentage is responsible for nearly one quarter of utility costs. Sealing the ducts is something you can do easily and cheaply, and it may reduce energy costs greatly in the future.
The condenser unit needs protection in cold weather. A thick cover will help protect the condenser from the weather.
Keep the owner’s manual for your unit nearby at all times whenever you while you’re working on any kind of unit. The manual will help you out if you’re dealing with problems.
This information should have helped you understand your HVAC better. Using the above information, you should be able to continue your HVAC education without risking breaking parts or making costly mistakes. Good luck and hopefully now things will start to work fantastically for you well into the future!