At home your HVAC system must work well in order to have proper air circulating. If your HVAC system goes bad, then you are looking at costly repairs. If you would like good tips and solid ideas on how to maintain your HVAC system, then you came to the right place. Below you will find many solutions to the common HVAC problems, and what to look for in order to keep it working right.
When seeking a new contractor, ask loved ones for referrals. They'll often have already had someone in for similar work and will know who to trust and who to avoid. If your family hasn't used anyone, ask co-workers or other people you trust in your community for some references.
If you want to keep your air conditioning unit running efficiently, make sure you replace or clean the air filter once a month. Check the owner's manual on the a/c for instructions on how to clean the filter. Never run the unit when the filter is removed and let the filter dry before reinstallling it.
A shady spot is always a good choice for the placement of your outdoor compressor. When the unit sucks in cooler air, then less work is required to cool it further which in turn boosts the units efficiency.
If at all possible, install double-paned windows in your home instead of those with a single pane. Having a double pane window helps limit your need for air conditioning during the summer months. Likewise, in the winter more hot air stays inside during the cold season.
If you want to seriously extend the life of your HVAC system, as well as cut down your overall power bill, install ceiling fans in commonly used warm season rooms. Energy-star certified ceiling fans can sometimes cut your HVAC use in half. However, you won't physically notice a difference in temperature.
Don't let grass clippings pile up against your outdoor condenser. Try shooting the clippings away from it. This is the same if you are using a leaf blower.
Condenser units for the outdoors should be shut off when it starts to get cold outside. If it's less than 60 degrees outside, turn the unit off. This helps the system last much longer and will have to be repaired less often.
Ask for references and be sure to call them as well. You are dealing with a high ticket item here, so you'll want to do your due diligence to make sure you are getting the best for your money. Ask for references, but don't stop there. Call each reference to check. A lot of people don't take that important last step.
Outdoor condenser units need to be turned off when the weather turns cold. If the temperature drops to under 60 degrees, you risk damage to the unit if you leave it on. This can keep your system working for years and save you a lot on repairs.
If you live in a hot climate, don't use duct tape on your HVAC. It just dries out and falls off, leaving you with leaks all over the place. Instead, use mastic sealant to cover any holes or gaps in duct work and you'll keep your home comfortable all year long.
Before hiring an HVAC company, you need to find out how long they have been in business. Companies that have been around for longer have a proven track record that you can use to decide if they are worth the time and money. It is riskier to hire someone who does not have a long history.
If you live in a hot climate, don't use duct tape on your HVAC. It just dries out and falls off, leaving you with leaks all over the place. Instead, use mastic sealant to cover any holes or gaps in duct work and you'll keep your home comfortable all year long.
Consider an annual service agreement for technicians to regularly inspect your AC unit. Schedule brief inspections for the winter to make sure nothing is obviously wrong. The most important time for an inspection and service is just before it starts getting warm. You don't want to discover an AC breakdown when you need it working most.
Never accept the first offer you get when you are looking to hire an HVAC contractor. There are many people out there that charge more than others for doing the same services. Getting price quotes from several companies can help ensure that you are getting a rate that is acceptable.
To block out the sun on hot summer days, allowing your air conditioner to run less frequently, invest in heat blocking drapes. These textiles come in beautiful patterns and colors today, looking just like their designer counterparts. They will keep the heat out so that your home stays cooler without costing you an arm and a leg on utility bills.
For your outdoor HVAC unit, make sure that your foliage is cleared around it. Two feet distance between the HVAC unit and shrubs is a good amount to remember. If you let the foliage creep up on the unit, it can cause all sorts of issues with debris and growth into the system.
Get your work order in writing. You should always have a written proposal before the HVAC contractor begins work. This will help prevent overspending, or any extra fees or expenses that you may be unaware of. Make sure you go over it with your contractor so that you understand every charge.
When buying an HVAC system from a contractor, don't just purchase from the first person you find. Do a little investigating first. Make sure the person has been in business for a while. Although there are no guarantees, someone who has been around for 10+ years probably had to do something right to stay in the business.
Consider what potential direction your air conditioner's flow will have when AC Replacement HVAC Contractor choosing where to put it. If it has to be placed in a corner, get a unit where the air won't be trapped against the wall.
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.
After reading this article, you should be better informed about what to look for in your next HVAC system. You want to find a system that will heat and cool your home without costing you a fortune. Use the tips you have read here to get a great deal on a new system.
