Article created by-Benjamin Haney
Keeping a home cool in the summer and warm in the winter is one of the most fundamental duties of a homeowner. Knowing the right person to call in the event of an equipment failure is essential to staying comfortable on a year-round basis. By reading the material below, there should never be any doubt about what steps to take.
Prior to putting in a service call on your HVAC, be able to identify it. 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. Your contractor will appreciate this information.
When purchasing a new HVAC system for your home, be sure it is energy efficient. These days, most new HVAC systems are energy efficient; there is a energy star label on the equipment. However, to be sure your utility costs do not go through the roof, choose equipment that is energy efficient.
Make sure that your contractor provides a home assessment. Not every HVAC solution is for everyone. Your home could have special needs for heating and cooling. Your contractor should do a walk around of your space to judge what is best. If they aren't be sure to request one.
Know what you need before you hire a contractor. Discussing the problem is simplified if you understand what has happened with the unit. Getting an estimate will be even more difficult if you cannot adequately describe the problem. Thus, it is worthwhile to have this knowledge ahead of time.
To save money on your HVAC system, turn the air conditioning down at night and let your home warm up a bit. To keep yourself cool, use a chilling water-filled pillow to cool down your head and your whole body as a result. This combined with a fan will keep you from overheating while saving on your utility bills.
Icing up is common in air conditioners. There can be
https://www.facilitiesnet.com/hvac/tip/Stunning-Visualization-Shows-Importance-of-Ventilation-in-Classrooms--47797 in their drain lines, and these are usually confused with plumbing leaks. Change your thermostat in situations like this. While switching the system to the fan setting should begin the ice melting process, the best thing to do is to hire a professional to deal with the problem.
Be sure to check your evaporator coil drains frequently when your air conditioner is running. If this tube backs up, you can find water damage to your walls, ceilings and floors. If you end up with mold just use a solution of bleach and water to clean out the tube.
If you don't want to install ductwork in your home, consider a mini-split system instead. They work form the outside in, allowing your whole home to cool without a central air conditioner. This allows you to enjoy all of your indoor space in a cool, comfortable way all summer long.
Do you need a new cooling system? There are some things to consider. System ratings are based on the area that can be cooled and heated effectively by the system. It's a good idea to buy something that's larger than you'd need instead of getting something that's not big enough.
If you live in a hot climate, don't use duct tape on your HVAC. It just dries out and falls off, leaving you with leaks all over the place. Instead, use mastic sealant to cover any holes or gaps in duct work and you'll keep your home comfortable all year long.
The energy efficiency of a unit should be taken into consideration when purchasing a new heating and cooling system. Although you should be concerned about the price of a unit, the efficiency of the unit will save you thousands over the lifetime of the heating and cooling system and should weigh heavily on your buying decision.
Make sure things don't get too hot or cold where your thermostat is. Any electronics or heat sources like lamps or televisions nearby can trick the thermostat into thinking the home is warmer than it actually is. This just means it runs your air conditioning longer than necessary, wasting energy and money.
Installing a whole-house fan can either cool your home without the use of air conditioning or make your air conditioner more efficient.
click here to investigate blows out all of the hot air which collects in your attic, and this air flow draws in cool air from your basement and up into your home.
The HVAC system is only one piece in an efficient home. You must also consider the quality of your windows and doors. All should be tightly sealed with no air getting inside or out. You can also hire someone to test them.
Never hire anyone to work on your HVAC system unless they are licensed and bonded. This industry is one where mistakes happen often and you want to make sure that you are protected. You do not want to be stuck paying for medical bills that are more expensive than the work you were having done.
Make sure your HVAC is clear when working outside. You should try keeping any vegetation about two feet away from your outdoor units. Keep the areas above it and on each side of it clear. Make sure you aim your grass clippings away from the unit when mowing. Keep leaves from getting inside your unit in the fall.
Choose a contractor who knows how to work with your current system. If they work with that set-up frequently, they'll quickly diagnose any problems and know exactly how to maintain it. Choosing such a firm will save you time and money, and will also save you from unnecessary headaches.
Replace the air filter to keep your HVAC system working well. It is the easiest and cheapest way you can take care of it. Filters are cheap, and changing them regularly adds up to long term savings.
An HVAC system is expensive. Therefore, you want to make sure that you work with a reputable contractor or company to ensure that you get the most from your investment. Always get references from anyone that you are considering working with, and make sure to follow up on each of those references.
Purchasing an HVAC unit isn't easy. You should note the decision becoming a little easier to make now that some options have been removed from the table. Take the time to review these tips again, and use them when you are making your final selection so that your home becomes comfortable and enjoyable all year round.