Many people simply ignore their HVAC system until it is too late. Of course then it becomes extremely important to fix. It isn’t easy finding a repair man that you can rely on. You will get help with the process here.
If your HVAC system is acting up, take a tour of the house prior to calling a professional. Make a list of the rooms which are comfortable and which just aren’t. Doing so can help your technician fix your HVAC issue quickly.
Before you ever begin looking for an HVAC contractor, first consider the entire job that you’ll need completed. They won’t be able to offer you a quote if they haven’t seen your system. It will be way more hard if you can’t figure out what they need to do. It’s important to know this beforehand.
Be sure to regularly clean debris from external condenser units. Your HVAC system may run into problems after storms if it is surrounded by debris. It may even overheat, which can ruin your system.
You should clean your condenser fan’s blades and coils every spring. Be sure to turn the power off first; you don’t want anything to move. Next, pop the grill off, put the blades out and start to gently clean them along with the unit.
Lubricate your condenser yearly if it has oil ports. These ports have a metal covering. Sometimes it is rubber. Choose an oil graded SAE 20, it is non-detergent and lightweight. Place about 10 drops into each of the ports, taking care that it does not overfill.
To increase the efficiency of your HVAC unit, be sure to keep it in the shade. You save money this way because the air conditioner is now pulling in cooler air, which is easier to cool further.
Be sure to have twice annual HVAC system checks. This should happen in the fall and the spring. Even if you don’t think anything’s wrong, it’s still worth an inspection.
When it gets cold outside, it is necessary to turn off outdoor condenser units. If it’s lower than 60 degrees, the time has come to turn it off. This can keep your HVAC running and can save you money on repairs.
Get your HVAC unit serviced yearly. The contractor should oil the parts that move and check the motor and freon levels. This will keep you energy efficient and comfortable.
Don’t let your home get way too hot to where it’s dangerous. A simple AC unit will usually only cool the home around 20 degrees within a short period of time. If the temperature in your home rises to 100 degrees F or higher, cooling it will only drop the temperature to 80 degrees F. Depending on what the humidity is, this may not be cool enough to be a safe temperature to sleep at when recovering from the harsh summer heat.
Proven Track Record
Make certain the HVAC company you choose has a proven track record. Companies that have been around for longer have a proven track record that you can use to decide if they are worth the time and money. Otherwise, you are taking a huge risk with the person you hire.
Ask people that you know and trust for contractor recommendations. People that have had quality work done are usually more than willing to share this information. This can also be used to see who you should avoid.
Make your HVAC work efficiently when you consider what way your home faces. It’s always a good idea to plant trees in areas that will help block the scorching sun that heats up your home and causes your AC unit to work harder. When you do what you can to less how much heat comes into your home, your AC unit can work less, which will save money.
Measure the living area you wish to cool before going air conditioner shopping. You will need about 20 BTU per square footage of the room. When you are cooling more than one room, you must add together all of the square footage.
It is important to think about the direction air flows from your unit. Put it in a corner where the air does not flow into the wall.
Find out how much experience a given contractor has before you hire him or her. It is important that you hire someone that has enough background experience to get the work done properly. It’s best to find someone who knows what they’re doing.
Make sure to get references when hiring your contractor. You need to know if previous clients have gotten what they needed, like timely service within their budget. The references will help you avoid wasting your money on someone that is not professional.
Be sure you know what goes into what you’re about to pay for the HVAC work if you’re paying a contractor. Do not get scammed with material fees and fuel charges. A contract will really help you if something like this materializes.
In the winter, keep your condenser unit properly covered. This can help it last longer when it is not in use. Another bit of great advice is to not run the unit’s compressor if it’s under 60 degrees outside. Turn on the fan and avoid straining the unit.
After reading this, you probably know more about HVAC systems. You know the specific things you should be looking for if you want your system repaired. Refer back to this article as necessary to make sure that you’re on the right track.