Your HVAC system at home is probably the most vital piece of equipment that you have. Unfortunately, many people fail to realize this, and they end up having major problems with it. Don't let your HVAC system go bad on you, read the tips below for solid information that will help you out.
Make sure you check the filters in your air conditioning unit. This is important because checking your filters could make the difference between inexpensive repairs and more expensive ones down the line. Try to put it into your monthly schedule so that you don't forget to check the filters regularly.
If you want to save money once a new HVAC system is put in place, be sure to pick ENERGY STAR rated products to use. They are very energy efficient so your new system won't cost you a ton when it comes to your utility bills every month, recouping some of your installation costs.
Make sure clippings don't get on your outdoor units when your mowing your lawn. Instead, make sure that the grass is shooting in the opposite direction. This is the same if you are using a leaf blower.
Clean your permanent air filters or replace disposable ones every single month. If you have the choice, an electrostatic is the best option on the market today. Be sure to turn off your unit before you change the filter as it should never be run without a filter in place.
Clean the fan blades and coils on the condenser fan every spring. Before you begin cleaning the unit, make sure that it is unplugged. Next, pop off the grill, pull out the blades and start cleaning them and the unit itself off gently.
An investment in a smart thermostat is truly going to save you money. You can program it to turn on and off at certain temperatures or times, allowing you to ensure that your air conditioner or heater isn't running when it doesn't need to be, saving you a ton.
Research what size air conditioner you should purchase for the size of your home by using online calculators they have for this purpose. If you buy a unit that is too big, it won't do an efficient job. Look at the manual to determine the recommended size for air conditioners.
If you want to pay for less power use, consider installing an HVAC-specific solar panel system. Such an installation harnesses the power of the sun directly for your heating and air conditioning. Don't worry though; you can have a switch put in that automatically connects to the power grid the days there isn't enough sun.
Put a radiant barrier in your attic and what your HVAC performance improve. This will block heat from coming in, which means that less energy will be needed to keep your home cool. If you install the unit properly, you can even begin to use the attic as a bedroom as it will be so comfortable!
Before you get into the hot summer months, make sure to schedule a tune up for your current HVAC system. This is very important to keep issues from popping up with your system. It's a small cost to pay compared to the large bills to fix issues that could arise.
Try to stay away from HVAC contractors that ask for upfront payments before they are willing to get started on the work they were hired to do. In many cases, this means that they are more concerned about getting paid than they are about making sure the job is done well.
Your doors and windows need to be as efficient as the HVAC system you use. Be sure that they're sealed well so that air from the outside or inside doesn't come in or escape. A professional can also test the windows and many times the testing is free.
Installing a whole-house fan can either cool your home without the use of air conditioning or make your air conditioner more efficient. It blows out all of the hot air which collects in your attic, and this air flow draws in cool air from your basement and up into your home.
If you hear clicking noises from your condenser fan, make sure that it is not striking something inside the unit. If it is not hitting something, it may be bent. Do not HVAC Service Near Me try to straighten the blades. This could cause it to become unbalanced. Simply replace the blade to ensure proper rotation.
When hiring a contractor, be sure to ask for a list of references. Previous customers can provide information about timeliness of job completion and if the contractor stayed within their budget. References ensure you don't end up with a scammer.
Any contractor that gives you a quote over the phone shouldn't be trusted. To truly evaluate your needs, they must come into your home and check it out basement to attic. If they make promises without even seeing your house, there is no way they'll be able to keep them.
Make sure to be specific about everything that is written in your contracts. It should detail the work that is being done, the materials being used and the amount of time it will take to complete the job. Leaving anything out can give the contractor an exit if something goes wrong.
Choose a contractor who knows how to work with your current system. If they work with that set-up frequently, they'll quickly diagnose any problems and know exactly how to maintain it. Choosing such a firm will save you time and money, and will also save you from unnecessary headaches.
Try looking at some reviews online for local HVAC companies. There are many websites and directories online that should include these services that are in your area. This can help you comparison shop. You need to look at many aspects. Pay special attention to licensing, how many years they've been around, any issues, and how they were resolved.
No one enjoys working with a malfunctioning HVAC unit. However, if they become well-informed on the topic, the process can be smoother. By using the advice here and keeping it at your side, you can be sure that you'll know what to do to take care of your issues.
