It is easy to ignore an HVAC system until it breaks down. When it fails it quickly becomes very important. Finding someone to repair your existing system or install a new one can be tricky. This article can help you navigate your way through the process.
Get all of the details regarding a broken system before calling for repair. Find out the brand and model and, if possible, dig out the maintenance history. This makes sure your contractor will be sufficiently prepared.
If problems arise with the HVAC system, check the entire house before contacting someone to come for repairs. Note which rooms are hot and which are cold. If you do this, it will be a great help to the future contractor, who will now be able to quickly locate the problem issue.
Before you ever begin looking for an HVAC contractor, first consider the entire job that you’ll need completed. A contractor will be hard pressed to provide you with an over-the-phone estimate if unfamiliar with your system. It will be way more hard if you can’t figure out what they need to do. It’s a good idea to learn this information in advance.
Fan Blades
Keep outside condenser fans running smoothly by cleaning fan blades and coils before the summer begins. Before you do clean the coils and fan blades, always take the precaution of turning off all power to the unit. Clean off any leaves or debris from your external condenser unit.
Each spring it’s time to clean the inside of your condenser unit, including the fan and the sensitive coil. Before you get started, cut the power. Then you need to get the grill popped off and get the blades out so you can clean them and your unit gently.
Make sure that you do not cover your outdoor components with grass clippings when you are trimming the grass. When you work with your lawn mower, make sure it spits the grass to the side opposite of your unit. Be just as mindful when you blow leaves to not blow them toward your HVAC equipment.
When the leaves start to fall, the HVAC equipment can be harmed. The grill on the fan can become cluttered with debris, which will cause a serious operating deficiency. Because the fan requires a clear path for air to enter, you may encounter issues with your system if the fan gets blocked up.
Lubricate the oil ports on your condenser once each year. Such ports tend to have coverings made of rubber or metal. Your oil should be an SAE 20. This particular oil is very lightweight and it only requires about 10 drops per port.
Place your HVAC unit in the shade to boost efficiency. As your air conditioner sucks in cool air, little will have to be done to cool it any further, saving you a ton on your energy bills.
Consumers are usually advised to have their HVAC systems inspected twice a year. Generally, you want it done in the fall and the spring. Although there might not be any noticeable issues, it is important to provide regular upkeep to prevent bad things from happening.
Programmable Thermostats
Getting a programmable thermostats can be a terrific way to realize savings. If you adjust it to keep the house a little warmer or a little cooler during the time you are sleeping, you may see your energy bill go down by as much as ten percent. Some programmable thermostats can even be controlled from a PC or other device.
Sometimes air conditioners get iced up. The drain line might also freeze over. If you notice this, switch your thermostat to fan only to disable the compressor. Talk to a professional if you are unsure of how to do this.
Figure out how long the HVAC company you choose has been in business. Firms that have been in business for a long time are easier to assess. Otherwise, you are taking a huge risk with the person you hire.
When you need the services of an HVAC professional, ask your friends and family if they can recommend someone to you. People that have gotten great work done in the past generally love to share the information they know about it. This is also a great way to get names of companies that should be avoided.
Now you know a lot about HVAC care. If you are in need of repair, you know how to find it. Always remember these tips and they’ll continue to serve their purpose in your future.