Coming home to an HVAC unit that is not working is no fun at all. A temperature controlled home is a comfortable home, and you should make yourself aware of what you need to know to keep it cared for. These tips will ensure you stay on top of your game!
Check the whole house before you call for help. While you are walking through the house, gauge which rooms are the coolest and which are the warmest. This will help the repairman determine what the problem is.
Clean the debris on your condenser units. Debris can pile up at rates that increase during rainy or windy weather, and this can foul up the inner workings of your system. If you do not, the unit may get too hot and cause additional problems.
When spring rolls around, give the condenser fan blades and coils a good clean. First, the power should be turned off so things don’t move as you work. Next, remove the grill, take the blades and clean them gently, then clean the actual unit.
The HVAC unit in your home can become damaged from falling leaves. Clean outdoor units often to remove leaves. The air needs to be unobstructed into the fan, and any blockages create performance issues for the whole system.
You need to lubricate parts of your fan condenser. These are usually covered with rubber or metal caps. Put 10 drops of lightweight, non-detergent SAE oil in each port. Be careful not to use too much.
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. When your unit sucks in cooler air, then much less is required to cool it further, which saves you money on energy bills.
Have your heating and cooling system inspected twice a year. Check into it twice a year before you head into the hot and cold months. This will help you to avoid problems.
Once it gets cold outside, you should turn off the outdoor condenser unit. This means that you should turn it off to prevent damage if the weather falls under 60 degrees Farenheit. This simple tip will help keep the system running efficiently for many years to come.
Pane Windows
If you are a home owner, replace whatever single pane windows you have with more efficient double-paned versions. Double pane windows will help keep your home cooler in the summer. Likewise, in the winter more hot air stays inside during the cold season.
Keep energy costs from rising by having your system serviced annually. Make sure the person takes a look at the motor and examines the levels of freon. Your unit will last longer this way.
If you’re away from home during the day, raise the temperature setting on your air conditioner to save money. Your home will become somewhat warmer during this time. When you keep it on, you will be using electricity.
Put a bit of time into researching various HVAC specialists; you’re more likely to choose the right one for the job. It is always wise to check their status with the BBB. In addition, check out customer reviews that appear online. Taking these steps will help ensure that you make a wise decision.
Use online AC sizing calculators to figure out what size unit you need. If you make the mistake of purchasing a unit that is too large, it will not cool efficiently. Use the manual to determine what size is right for you.
When you need the services of an HVAC professional, ask your friends and family if they can recommend someone to you. When someone hires a quality professional, they are usually happy to share their info. You are likely to also hear about negative experiences.
Make certain that you get written estimates before you hire a contractor. Save yourself some money by calling around before you make your final decision. Compare the rates of at least 5 or 6 contractors to help you decide on the most reasonable rate for the job you need done.
For greater efficiency, put a radiant barrier in your attic. It blocks the heat from inside out, reducing the energy that’s needed for your home to get cooled during the summer. If it is done correctly, it is even possible to convert the attic as a living space.
Use the tips from this article to help your system run smoothly. A breakdown of your unit can be frustrating. Contemplating hefty repairs is also something to dread. Prevent this with the solid information you have here. Maintain your system and enjoy the benefits.
