An efficient HVAC system is needed to live in comfortable home. At the same time, a malfunctioning system can make your home inhabitable to some. Poor systems can cost you more money and frustration when they break. The easiest thing to do is to study the solid HVAC tips below, that will show you how to keep the unit running the right way well into the future.
Before you contact people to assist you in getting your system fixed, know what kind of system you’re working with in the first place. Know the brand name and model number. It is also helpful to have the maintenance history. This will facilitate the process when your contractor asks for this information.
Check the whole house before you call for help. Figure out which rooms are hot and cold. Give this information to your contractor when they arrive.
Know what you need before you hire a contractor. They won’t be able to offer you a quote if they haven’t seen your system. In addition, you need to be able to tell the contractor what you have already tried. Be sure to find this out ahead of time.
Clean your outdoor condensers often. Debris can pile up at rates that increase during rainy or windy weather, and this can foul up the inner workings of your system. If you do not, the unit may get too hot and cause additional problems.
HVAC units may suffer when leaves are falling off the trees. When the leaves fall from nearby trees, clean the grill of your fan often. The fan should have a clear path for air to come in. If it is blocked, your system will suffer.
Some fan condensers may contain oil parts, and if yours does, ensure it is lubricated at least once per year. Most of these ports have some sort of protective cap covering them. Pick a type of SAE 20 oil that is non-detergent and lightweight. Place 10 or less drops into every port to avoid overfilling.
Replace any single-paned windows with double-paned versions. Double-pane windows keep inside air cooler, allowing you to reduce AC usage in the summertime. It keeps heat in during the winter, too.
To help keep your energy costs down, have your heating and cooling system serviced at least once a year. When they visit to service the unit they’re going to inspect the motors, oil the parts that move, and see how much freon is in your system. This maintenance means that your system will operate optimally.
Look for sizing calculators based on the air conditioner you have to figure out how big of a unit you need in your home. Buying a unit which is too big reduces efficiency. Look at the manual to figure out the manufacturing rates the unit for accurate cooling information.
Ask people that you know and trust for contractor recommendations. Those who have had this work done will know the best options. This is also a great way to get names of companies that should be avoided.
Use online reviews to help you find a source for HVAC maintenance. You have a choice of review sites to use. This is a good way to find decent people to hire.
Check the ducts to find any leaks if you you feel your existing system is not up to snuff. Call your utility company if they are leaking to see about getting a test. The testing will pay for itself once you find and repair the leaks.
If you want to live comfortably, your HVAC has to be in good working condition. Your home will not be livable without a well maintained HVAC system. Use this information to keep your system running well all year long.