A properly functioning HVAC system is important part of your home.A lot of people spend quite a bit to fix things when they don’t work right, but could have avoided such issues if they had maintained them properly. The tips below will help you maximize your purchase.
When you start making calls to get someone to help with your HVAC system, it’s a good idea to know what system you have before that phone call. You need to know who manufactured the product and the item number. Also, get the maintenance records from your files if you have them. 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 you want done before you hire a contractor. It will be difficult for a contractor to provide you with an estimate on the phone without knowing what your current setup is. It will be more difficult for him to assist you can’t figure out what they need to do.
Turn the power off first so nothing moves. Next, pop off the grill, put the blades out and start to gently clean them along with the unit.
Check the whole house before you call for help. Note which of your rooms are hot and which are cold. Figuring this out will the contractor to diagnose the issues and quickly get to work on fixing it.
Sae 20 Oil
Lubricate the oil ports on your condenser at least once a year. You will notice these ports as they have a rubber or metal cap covering them. Use SAE 20 oil that is non-detergent and lightweight, detergent-free SAE 20 oil, putting 10 drops in each port.
If you have outside condenser units, make sure to regularly clean the debris that builds up. Leaves and debris can accumulate quickly, particularly following storms, and that can cause problems for your system. Overheating can occur, which often spells disaster for your system.
Make sure your HVAC system checked twice a year. This should be done in the fall and the spring.
Turn off outdoor condenser when it’s getting cold. This should be done when the weather falls under 60 degrees Farenheit.This can keep your system last much longer and will have to be repaired less often.
Have the HVAC system serviced twice per year. Check into it twice a year before you head into the hot and cold months. Even if you do not detect a problem, you can identify and fix any potential problems when you have it checked.
It is always a good idea to replace single-paned windows with ones that have double pane ones. This also keeps warm air in the winter months.
Install a thermostat to save energy costs. Some programmable thermostats can even be controlled from a PC or computer.
When it gets cold outside, the outdoor condenser unit should be turned off. To avoid damage, units should be turned off when temperatures are below 60 degrees. This will keep your system in working order year after year, saving you a ton on repairs.
Research and check the companies that you consider using. Check with different references to determine the BBB and look for your situation. Doing all of this makes it more likely that you make a better decision.
Companies that are well established have track records that haven’t been. Hiring a new contractor means taking a considerable risk.
If you own your own home or have permission from your landlord, replace your single pane windows with double paned versions. Double pane windows can help minimize how much you use your air conditioner in the summer, because they keep cool air inside the home. This will help you save a lot of money.
Ask people that you know and family for contractor recommendations. People who have had great service are often happy to share the name of their contractor. This can 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 quite a lot of money when you call different companies for price quotes. You want to get quotes from at least five contractors in order to know what you should be paying.
Shop around before hiring an HVAC contractor. Check with the BBB and online reviews as well. Take these steps to ensure you make wise choices.
Check the ducts to find any leaks if you you feel your existing system is not be working efficiently. If you do end up paying, the money spent on finding and repairing the leak will pay for itself.
Figure out which direction your home faces in order to make your HVAC system can work better. The less heat in your home, the fewer occasions you have to use your air conditioner.
Air conditioners occasionally freeze up, literally. Sometimes the drain line will freeze, causing leaks. If you see this, put the fan on to shut the compressor off. It is best to call a professional in to fix this particular issue, even though the switch to fan setting should cause the ice to start melting.
If you hear clicking inside your HVAC unit, immediately check for any type of obstruction. Often the issue is some sort of debris hitting fans in your cooling system. Check it out before spending on a repairman.
As you can now see, an HVAC system is a very important part of your home. Fortunately, these tips can produce real savings. But it is up to you to follow them, so you don’t find yourself in the position to shell out thousands of dollars fixing something that could have been prevented.
Ask for helpful information when you are looking for a HVAC contractor. Those who have had this work done will know the best options. This will also help you avoid scammers.