Many homeowners are at a loss when the HVAC system collapses. The more prepared you are on this topic, the less of a disaster it will be. This article provides the information homeowners need to hire help when they need it.
Before you call someone to help you fix your system, be sure to know what sort of system you have in place. Take a look at the system or the owner’s manual to find the name and model number. This helps make sure the contractor has the information they will need.
What do you need done? Know this before calling a contractor. It will be hard for a contractor to give you a price estimate over the phone if they have not seen your current system. If you can’t explain changes you’ve made, the process will be even more difficult. Know this stuff ahead of time.
In order to keep your outside condenser fan running efficiently, make sure the coils and the fan blades are cleaned before the cooling season begins. Make sure your power is off before doing more than cleaning, such as working on the unit. Keep the exterior of the condenser unit free of debris.
You should clean your condenser fan’s blades and coils every spring. Before you get started, cut the power. Remove the grill and carefully clean the blades and surrounding areas.
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. When the fan becomes obstructed, you will lose out on quality air.
Make sure your HVAC systems is checked twice a year. The spring and autumn times are the best time to have it checked. This type if preventative maintenance is highly necessary to ward off any expensive troubles from coming your way.
When it gets cold outside, turn off the outdoor condensers. If it’s less than 60 degrees outside, turn the unit off. This will help keep it in good condition for many years.
Installing double paned windows can save a lot of money over single panes, so upgrade if you are able. Try to insulate your windows to prevent air from being lost. Conversely, they keep warm air in during the winter.
Never allow the temperature in your home to rise to a dangerously high level. An air conditioning unit is really only able to reduce the temperature by twenty degrees in a short time span. If the temperature in your home rises above 100 degrees, you will only be able to cool it down to 80. This isn’t a very safe condition for a homeowner to sleep in, especially when the humidity levels are considered.
Some air conditioners can ice up. The drain line can freeze, making you think it’s a plumbing leak. If this happens, put your thermostat over to fan. If the issue persists, call in help.
If you don’t know who you should call to repair, install and maintain your HVAC systems, check out reviews online. There are now different online sites that let customers share their service experiences. This is a good way to locate contractors that do good work and ones that are poor.
Every contractor out there is responsible for setting up their own fees, so get several quotes before hiring anyone. If you make a few calls before you decide, it can result in great savings. Call around to find out what the rates are.
Have you been thinking about buying a new HVAC system? There are several things you should consider. These machines are categorized according to the space they are able to efficiently heat and cool. It may be wise to get a unit that is a bit larger than needed. Just don’t get one that is smaller than you need.
If your system isn’t working as it should, test its ducts for leaks. Your utility company will usually test the unit for free or for a small fee. If you do have leaks that are repaired, this testing will pay for itself.
Your HVAC can work more efficiently if you take into consideration which way your home faces. If your home is surrounded by strategically planted trees, they can often block out the morning sunlight. When there is less heat inside your home, the air conditioner will not have to work as hard.
Obstructions often cause a clicking noise in a compressor. Sometimes debris interferes with the cooling system fans. Simply clear away the debris or remove any foreign objects and your problem is solved. Do this before calling for assistance.
There is absolutely no question, that poor HVAC performance during the hot seasons or frigid winter months can pose a serious threat to a homeowners finances and comfort. However, by arming yourself with the right knowledge ahead of time, it doesn’t have to be a dire situation. Follow these tips to take good care of your HVAC system.