Not everyone knows a lot about HVAC service and contractors. This fact can pose a problem when it comes time to handle a household heating or cooling emergency. Fortunately, the information that follows can help any homeowner find the information they need.
Check out the system that you have before you call a professional. Take a look at the system or the owner’s manual to find the name and model number. Then, you’ll be ready to tell the contractor what they need to know.
Inspect the temps in your home before you call a service to help you with any HVAC issues you’re having. Note which rooms are hot and which are cold. Give this information to your contractor when they arrive.
Before choosing an HVAC contractor, think of what you wish to have done. It will be hard for a contractor to give you a price estimate over the phone if they have not seen your current system. Being unable to explain what has been already done will make it even harder. Make an effort to gather all information you need before making the phone call.
Clean the fan blades and coils on the condenser fan every spring. Turn it off first so you don’t get hurt or break something. Then you need to get the grill popped off and get the blades out so you can clean them and your unit gently.
In order for your new unit to be as efficient as possible, or to make older units more efficient, make sure it’s put in a shaded area. It will help you save on your energy bill when you do this.
Outdoor condenser units need to be turned off when the weather turns cold. To avoid damage, units should be turned off when temperatures are below 60 degrees. This will ensure your system works well each year, which could save you quite a bit in repair costs.
One great way to save some cash when you’re working on keeping a home cool is to install a thermostat that’s programmable. A thermostat that’s programmable is going to save you around ten percent on the heating and cooling costs you have to pay when you turn it back about fifteen percent for a part of the day. Also, you’ll find that you can program your thermostat from a computer or anything connected to the web.
If you are going to be gone during the day or on vacation, turn the temperature up on your air conditioning unit. You may want to turn your unit off if your house will not become extremely hot or cold. Obviously, if you leave your air conditioning set at a low temperature all day long even if you’re not home, you’ll be paying to maintain that low temperature.
Research and check the reputation of companies before hiring them. Check with the BBB and look for reviews of potential companies online. Doing all of this will make sure you hire the best company for your HVAC needs.
Find an air conditioner calculator online to determine what models are best for you. A unit that is bigger than you need simply isn’t efficient. 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. You are more likely to get good service this way. New companies are just too risky.
Ask your friends, relatives, and coworkers about their experiences with HVAC contractors in your area. When someone hires a quality professional, they are usually happy to share their info. This can also help you to figure out some names of businesses that you should avoid at all costs.
No homeowner wants to face a broken HVAC unit. But, taking time to study the topic makes the process much easier. Having these tricks and tips handy will help a homeowner solve any HVAC issues affordably and promptly.