A Basic Guide To All Your HVAC Questions And Needs
There are a wide variety of options available and may even be a bit overwhelming if you do not know what to look for when purchasing an HVAC. Do you understand exactly which kind of system you need? How big do you need? Do you know which features it needs? All the new products available these days can make for a frustrating shopping experience. Don't let the options overwhelm you. Instead, use the following tips to narrow your selection and make the right choice.
If you have some problems with the HVAC system, check out your home before calling a contractor. Determine which rooms are hotter or colder than they should be. The contractor can probably figure out and fix the problem easier.
Clean the fan blades and coils in your condenser each spring. First, the power should be turned off so things don't move as you work. Next, pop off the grill, pull out the blades and start cleaning them and the unit itself off gently.
The operation of your HVAC system can be in danger when the tree leaves begin to fall. Cleaning your unit is very important for its effectiveness. The air needs to be unobstructed into the fan, and any blockages create performance issues for the whole system.
Lubricate the oil ports on your condenser once each year. These 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, but make sure to avoid overfilling them.
A shady spot is always a good choice for the placement of your outdoor compressor. Your unit won't have to work as hard to cool the inside air if the outside air it sucks from is cooler.
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. As your air conditioner sucks in cool air, little will have to be done to cool it any further, saving you a ton on your energy bills.
Check your unit at least twice each year. This should be done in Fall and Spring to prepare it for the extreme months. Check it out just to be safe even if there is nothing broken.
Turn off any outdoor condensers you have when the weather gets cold. Avoid damaging the unit by turning it off when the outdoor temperature drops below 60 degrees. This will ensure your system works well each year, which could save you quite a bit in repair costs.
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. Inquire with the BBB and look elsewhere for other reviews from customers. Investing the time to check out potential contractors can save you money and headaches.
When you're purchasing an HVAC system, make sure that you get a unit that is properly sized for your space. Proper sizing will increase efficiency. To get the right information, look in the manual to find out the rating the manufacturer gives the unit for cooling.
How long has the contractor been in business? Fly-by-night companies are those you want to avoid. Working with someone that does not yet have a reputation in the business is a bit riskier.
Check the Internet for reviews on those who fix or install HVAC systems. There are many sites that other customers can place their reviews. This method provides you with all the information you need to make the best hiring decisions.
For greater efficiency, put a radiant barrier in your attic. It blocks heat from the inside out, lowering the amount of energy needed to cool your home in the summer. It it's installed properly, you might even be able to use your attic as an extra room.
It is important to pick out the right HVAC company for your needs as you will need professional assistance. You want one that maintains a schedule. A licensed technician should also have no problem diagnosing any potential faults with your HVAC unit quickly. Once they know what's wrong, they should also know how to get them resolved efficiently and quickly.
Find out how much experience a given contractor has before you hire him or her. He or she may not have experience working with your type of system or performing the work that you need done. Don't risk the success of your job by taking a chance on someone who may not be able to do it right.
When you need to find a contractor to handle your HVAC work for you, make sure that the one you choose has a phone number they will answer 24-hours per day. The professional should also be able to promptly arrive at your home whenever the need arises.
Make sure that you are clear about what is included in the cost of the HVAC work you are contracting someone to do. Some contractors attempt to add charges on later for things such as material fees and fuel charges. A contract will really help you if something like this materializes.
Fit the condenser on your HVAC with a protective cover during the colder winter months. This can help it last longer when it is not in use. If the temperature outside is lower than sixty, do not use the compressor. Only use the fan during those times.
It is always essential to contact the HVAC contractor's references. Just because they give you a list doesn't mean they're legitimate. It will only take you a few minutes to call and check someone out, so don't hesitate to do that.
Many people find themselves confused as to what type of HVAC system they need for their location. It can be easier to decide when you have expert advice in hand. Go over this advice as needed to make sure that you've got everything down. You'll be able to make sure that your system stays working as it should.
