Content by-Lundsgaard Gaines
When the topic of HVAC comes up, it can seem extremely complicated. This is because so much information is available on the subject. However, you no longer have to be in the dark as this article has some great advice to help you get started.
Ask for referrals when hiring someone to install your HVAC system. Someone may seem like they know what they are doing, but you cannot simply take their word for it. You should be able to call past customers to get an idea of what to expect from this particular installer.
If you want to seriously extend the life of your HVAC system, as well as cut down your overall power bill, install ceiling fans in commonly used warm season rooms. Energy-star certified ceiling fans can sometimes cut your HVAC use in half. However, you won't physically notice a difference in temperature.
Ask for
visit web site and be sure to call them as well. You are dealing with a high ticket item here, so you'll want to do your due diligence to make sure you are getting the best for your money. Ask for references, but don't stop there. Call each reference to check. A lot of people don't take that important last step.
Don't get grass clippings on your outside unit. Make sure the grass does not get in your unit. This also applies when you blow leaves, so be very careful near your exterior HVAC units when you move debris.
Make certain that you clean your condenser when the weather begins to warm. First, turn off the power so that nothing will move as you are working on it. Then, remove the grill, then remove the blades and begin the cleaning process of the blades and the unit.
If you have a window air conditioner, be sure to check and see if it has an Energy Saver button. If so, use it! This turns off the fan when the unit isn't actually cooling the air, which can save you as much as 30 kwh over the period of a month!
If there are oil ports on your fan condenser, lubricate it annually. Most of these ports have some sort of protective cap covering them. Pick a type of SAE 20 oil that is non-detergent and lightweight. Place 10 or less drops into every port to avoid overfilling.
Never let your home reach a dangerously hot temperature. Air conditioners can cool a home by just twenty degrees in a short time. If your home become 100F or more, it will only cool off to about 80F. Taking into consideration the humidity level, this may not even be adequate for the human body to recover from excessive heat while sleeping.
If you currently have a manual thermostat, consider installing a programmable one. You can set your system for different temperatures depending on time of day and if anyone is home. Also, you can set upper and lower temperature settings to allow for a comfortable range of temperatures so that heating and cooling don't kick in when not needed.
Before having someone install a new HVAC system or maintain or repair yours, make sure they are insured. Having someone who is insured work on your system will assure that if anything happens while they are working at your home, they are financially covered and you will not be responsible.
If you plan on having a service on your HVAC unit, ask the technician what he will be doing. Any thorough service should consist of several things. The technician should check temperature levels, pressures, amperage draw, and coolant levels. They should adjust any belts that need it and clean the coils.
If
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FuiJJh82o4JFOFWj0CaFNuLnweHDtMpyzZnQAzX4hlQ/edit hear a clicking noise coming from your HVAC unit, immediately start looking for any obstructions. Sometimes, debris will be the cause of the disturbance. Just clear the debris to remove the problem. Take a look before calling a service technician.
Each contractor will have their own fee schedule, so make sure you get several different quotes before you hire anybody. Getting several quotes will ultimately help you save lots of money. Call around 5 contractors so that you can get the best deal possible.
Have your HVAC inspected every year to ensure that it is working properly. The technician will check your filters, drain lines, air flow and Freon levels. This will have your HVAC working at peak performance saving you money all season long. It will also alert you to any repairs that need to be address before they become big problems.
A great way to reduce the stress on your HVAC unit is to install ceiling fans in your home. During the summer, you can have them blow downward to cool the air and make your home feel more comfortable. In the winter you can reverse the direction and circulate warm air trapped at the ceiling.
If you hear clicking noises from your condenser fan, make sure that it is not striking something inside the unit. If it is not hitting something, it may be bent. Do not try to straighten the blades. This could cause it to become unbalanced. Simply replace the blade to ensure proper rotation.
Any contractor that gives you a quote over the phone shouldn't be trusted. To truly evaluate your needs, they must come into your home and check it out basement to attic. If they make promises without even seeing your house, there is no way they'll be able to keep them.
Get bids from several companies before deciding who you are going to hire to install or repair your HVAC system. Most people know to avoid the company that has the highest quote, but you should also stay away from the one with the lowest. The price may be lower due to shoddy workmanship an/or using low-quality equipment.
Do not let the heat build up inside your home. Lighting, electronic devices and appliances are all common sources of heat inside the home. To prevent this excessive heat, do not put televisions or lamps close to your a/c's thermostat. These appliances make the a/c think that the house is hotter than it really is, causing the system to run longer than needed and wasting energy.
If you have known the frustration of an HVAC failure, you know that one of the best things you can do as a homeowner is acquaint yourself with a skilled contractor. However, knowing what to look for in an HVAC professional takes a bit of research and study. Use the advice found above, and you will always be prepared for anything.