A lot of people have an HVAC type of unit where they live. They help regulate the temperature within the living space. Since this is a machine, it is likely that it will need to be installed by a professional and maintained by one, too. Read on to learn about the best tips for your HVAC.
Before calling for help, know the system you have. Write down the brand and the model and have all maintenance records on hand. This will help you give the new contractor the necessary information.
Inspect the temps in your home before you call a service to help you with any HVAC issues you’re having. Figure out which rooms are too cool or warm. That way, the contractor will have an easier time diagnosing the problem and repairing it fast.
Clean any debris that accumulates on an external condenser unit. Falling leaves and wind or rain may cause debris to reduce the efficiency of your unit. It can get overheated, which will cause problems with the whole system.
Clean your condenser’s fan blades and coil in the 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.
When the leaves start to fall, the HVAC equipment can be harmed. When the leaves fall from nearby trees, clean the grill of your fan often. A blocked unit can quickly become a broken unit.
Some fan condensers may contain oil parts, and if yours does, ensure it is lubricated at least once per year. Such ports tend to have coverings made of rubber or metal. Put about ten drops or less of a good non-detergent SAE 20 oil into each port.
When you are choosing a location for the outdoor compressor unit, it’s preferable to use a shaded area. If you have a unit taking in air that’s cooler, it won’t have to work so hard to cool air that it sends to your home.
When it gets cold outside, the outdoor condenser unit should be turned off. When the temperature goes below 60 degrees, shut off the unit in order to prevent damage. This will allow your system to work well every year, and that saves you quite a bit on making repairs.
A programmable thermostat can really help you out when it comes to your power bills. It may save you as much as 10 percent of your overall utility bill if you turn your thermostat down by 10-15 degrees for a portion of the day. In addition, some models make things really easy on you, allowing you to adjust them from the computer.
Service your HVAC unit at least one time a year. When they come out for a service visit, expect inspections of freon levels and the motor, and they will oil all the moving parts. Those things are going to help your system at peak performance.
Before you invest in any HVAC contractor, make sure you spend a good deal of time researching their reputations and credentials. Check with the BBB (Better Business Bureau), and look them up on review sites online to see what previous customers have to say about their experience. These steps are going to help to ensure your decision is a wise one.
Use an online sizing calculator to help you calculate the proper size of the air conditioning unit you should purchase. Buying one that’s too large will not cool that well. Check your manual to figure out what the rating is from the manufacturer to be sure you’re getting the right information.
Figure out how long the HVAC company you choose has been in business. Companies that are around awhile have a better record than those that haven’t been. Hiring a new contractor means taking a bigger risk.
Ask people you know for recommendations if you need to hire a contractor for an HVAC system. When someone hires a quality professional, they are usually happy to share their info. You are likely to also hear about negative experiences.
Contractors charge different rates, so make sure that you acquire multiple estimates. Getting several quotes will ultimately help you save lots of money. Call around to find out what the rates are.
These tips will really help you deal with your HVAC issues. Making certain that is operates optimally is a great idea. Rely on the advice found here to help you find the right option for installation or repair of your HVAC unit.