HVAC service and contracting isn’t something too many people know nothing about. This fact can be problematic when it comes time to handle a household heating or cooling emergency.
Always make sure you are up-to-date about your HVAC unit. Know the model and brand and find it’s maintenance history, if possible. If you have to have someone come out to repair the unit, you will be able to help the contractor understand more about what is going on.
Know what type of your HVAC system before looking for a repair person.This makes sure the contractor will be sufficiently prepared.
Clean your condenser’s fan and coils come spring. Clean the outside of your external condenser unit regularly.
Do not allow grass clippings to cover the outdoor unit of your HVAC system. Aim the grass clippings in the other direction. Be just as mindful when you blow leaves to not blow them toward your HVAC equipment.
Grass Clippings
Don’t let grass clippings on your outside unit. Direct the grass clippings away from the HVAC unit. This also applies when you are taking care of the leaves in debris.
Be sure you have the HVAC unit in your home checked about two times every year. The best time of year to have the system checked is right before the weather begins to change. Although there might not be any noticeable issues, it is important to provide regular upkeep to prevent bad things from happening.
Your HVAC units might suffer when trees begin dropping their leaves. Make sure the fan’s grill is cleaned frequently when the leaves begin to fall. The fan needs unobstructed air flow, and if it becomes blocked, then your system could suffer.
10 Drops
To keep your system running smoothly have your system serviced once a year. An HVAC specialist will inspect the entire system, including the oil, the motor, and the ducts. These few simple things will help your system to run at its peak performance.
Lubricate the oil ports on your condenser once a year. You will notice these ports have a 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.
Put your outdoor unit in the shade if you are installing them.
In order to select an HVAC contractor that you can trust, it pays to invest some time researching a few prospective companies and checking their reputations. Check with the BBB and look for reviews of potential companies online. This will help you make the best choice.
Have your HVAC system checked twice a year at the least. This should be done in the fall and the spring.
Air conditioners tend to ice up.The drain line may also freeze over. If this happens, try switching your thermostat to just the fan so that it disables the compressor. You should leave the repair to a professional, but switching to the fan will make the ice melt.
Use an HVAC company that has been in business for a while. Obviously, a company with a longer history and a positive reputation is the better choice. Hiring a new company will be riskier.
Companies that are around awhile have a better record than those that can help you decide if they’re worth your money and time. Hiring a newer contractor comes with an element of risk.
Ask friends and relations for their HVAC contractor recommendations. People who’ve had great service are normally more than happy to recommend their contractors. This is also help you learn the names of companies that should be avoided.
Are you thinking of getting a cooling and heating system that’s new? Many things must be taken into account before you purchase one. The systems are generally rated based on the area they cover. 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.
There are quite a few sites these days that let customers to share their service experiences. This is useful for finding contractors that you are interested in dealing with and those that you don’t.
Contractors determine their own fee levels, so make sure you get quotes from several contractors before you make any hiring decision. You will be likely to save some cash simply by doing your homework. You may want to call at least a handful of contractors in order to know what reasonable rates are.
Your HVAC system will run more efficiently if your windows and doors are energy efficient. Be sure that they’re sealed well so that air from the outside or inside doesn’t come in or escape. You can hire a professional to test them all for you and often this testing is free.
A radiant barrier improves the efficiency of your HVAC unit.It blocks outside heat from coming in which will serve as a barrier between your home and the outside. You could even use the attic as part of your living space more effectively.
Figure out which direction your home is facing so your HVAC system can work better. If there is less heat coming into your home, your AC will work less.
Pick HVAC companies that know what they’re doing and can work quickly. The best companies keep the technicians working honestly and on time. The technicians should also be able to diagnose problems in your HVAC in no time. Also, they should be able to service it quickly.
Dealing with broken HVAC systems can be a nightmare that many homeowners do not want to deal with. However, if proper research is done prior to situations that demand attention, the process becomes much simpler. Any homeowner can use the tips above to perform the simple maintenance required by their home HVAC system.