Not everyone is familiar with HVAC systems. This fact can become a problem when it comes time to handle a household heating or cooling problem in a home.
Before calling someone to repair your system, make sure you know what kind of HVAC system you actually have. Find out the brand and model and, if possible, dig out the maintenance history. This will ensure that you can give your new contractor all the information they need.
Know the name and type of system before looking for a repair person. This will ensure that you to give your chosen contractor all the information they might need.
If you struggle with your HVAC, check the entire house before contacting someone to come for repairs. This information will help the repairman determine where the problem is and how to fix it.
To make sure your condenser fan works properly, keep the fan blades and the coils clean. Before you clean the unit, be sure to turn off the power. Also, be sure to clear leaves and debris from your condenser unit.
Know what you want done before you hire a contractor. It will be difficult for an HVAC contractor to provide you a price estimate on the phone without knowing what your current system. It will be way more difficult for him to assist you can’t figure out what they need to do.
Turn it off so nothing moves.Then, take the grill off, pull the blades out, and begin cleaning the unit and them gently.
If your condenser comes with oil ports, you should lubricate it yearly. They generally have a rubber or metal cap on them. Your oil should be an SAE 20. This particular oil is very lightweight and it only requires about 10 drops per port.
Don’t get grass clippings pile up against your outdoor condenser. Aim the grass in the other direction. This also applies when you are taking care of the leaves in the yard.
10 Drops
A programmable thermostat is a simple way to help save money on air conditioning costs. 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. Additionally, some programmable thermostats can be controlled remotely using a web-connected device.
Lubricate the oil ports on your condenser once a year. These ports are usually covered with rubber or metal caps. Use SAE 20 oil that is non-detergent and lightweight, and put 10 drops or fewer in each port, putting 10 drops in each port.
Make sure your HVAC system checked twice a year. This should happen in the fall and again in the spring.
Avoid allowing your home to ever get exceedingly hot. Air conditioners only cool down a home by 20 degrees. If your home gets above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, you’ll only cool down to still above 80. When you factor in humidity, this can still be dangerously hot for the human body at rest.
It is a good idea to swap out single pane windows for double panes. This same effect also helps retain heated air during the winter months.
When it’s checked out, expect inspections of freon levels and the motor, and they will oil all the moving parts. These simple things will keep your system running at its peak performance.
If you aren’t sure who to call for HVAC maintenance, repairs, or installation, look online for reviews. Many Internet sites let customers discuss experiences with certain companies. This is a great way to find people you want to work with and those you don’t want to work with.
Never allow your home to rise to a dangerously hot inside. Air conditioners really can cool a home down about 20 degrees Fahrenheit within a short time. So, if you house heats up to about 95, your air conditioning will only bring that temp down to about 80 degrees. This is not a healthy environment to live in.
Air conditioners tend to ice up.The drain line may also freeze over. If you see this, disable the compressor by turning your thermostat to the fan only setting. If the issue persists, call a professional.
To improve the efficiency of your HVAC system, think about placing a radiant barrier in your attic. It blocks outside heat from coming in which will make sure you won’t have to use more energy to keep your home cool when it’s hot outside. If this is done properly, it will help extend your living space.
Ask your friends and trust for their HVAC contractor recommendations. People who’ve had a good experience are usually willing to tell of it. This will also help you with good information on which contractors you should avoid hiring.
Contractors are responsible for their own charges and fees, so make sure that you acquire multiple estimates. You can save a lot of money by doing your homework. You should try to contact 5 to 6 contractors to determine what reasonable rates are.
You should know the facing direction of your home for the most effective placement of the HVAC system. Trees in certain areas can provide shade, which means your house will stay cooler. When there is less heat inside your home, the air conditioner will not have to work as hard.
No one enjoys working with a malfunctioning HVAC unit. That said, a bit of knowledge goes a long way. Use the information given here to handle any future HVAC situation with ease.