Techniques To Help You Find HVAC Success

HVAC service and contracting isn’t something too many people know a lot about. Should an emergency occur with your cooling or heating, this may be a problem. Luckily, you always have a chance to do your research, starting with this article.

Clean the coils and blades in your condenser at the beginning of summer. Shut off power before working or cleaning your system. Also, it is important to clear the outside condenser unit from any debris that maybe trapped inside.

Clean any debris that accumulates on an external condenser unit. Falling leaves and wind or rain may cause debris to reduce the efficiency of your unit. It can overheat, leading to disaster within your system.

Clean the fan blades and coils on the condenser fan every spring. Before you get started, cut the power. Next, remove the grill, take the blades and clean them gently, then clean the actual unit.

Lubricate the oil ports on your condenser once each year. These ports have a metal covering. Sometimes it is rubber. Use a lightweight oil and do not overfill them.

A good place to place your compressor unit outside is in a shady spot. If it sucks in cool air, it will need to work less to coll the air inside, which can make it last longer.

You need to have a contractor review your unit twice a year. The normally recommended time for HVAC system inspections is once before the peak cooling season when it gets hot and you’ll be using your AC, and once before the peak heating season, during the cold months when you’re likely to be using your heat. Even though it may seem as nothing is wrong with the unit, a simple inspection can prove otherwise.

Pane Windows

If possible, your single pane windows should be replaced with double-paned ones. Having double pane windows allows your air conditioning unit to be run much less during the summer, because the cool air is kept inside the home. This same effect also keeps warm air in during the winter months.

Installing a programmable digital thermostat can help save money. It may save you as much as 10 percent of your overall utility bill if you turn your thermostat down by 10-15 degrees for a portion of the day. Additionally, some programmable thermostats can be controlled remotely using a web-connected device.

Always take the time to check out the reputation of any HVAC contractor before you consider hiring them. Check them out at the BBB and look for reviews posted by former customers. When done in advance you can be sure of making a sound decision.

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 is an excellent method of finding contractors that you are interested in dealing with as well as those that you want to avoid.

To help your heating and cooling system run efficiently, install a radiant barrier in your attic. It can help keep heat out during the hot summer months, which means you will lower your power bills. If this is done properly, it will help extend your living space.

Do you need a new HVAC system? You probably have many options available to you. Learn about the size systems need to be for optimal efficiency. It is always better to buy a unit that is a little bit bigger rather than one that might be slightly smaller.

Check for duct leaks if your unit seems to not be working efficiently. You can have your utility company test for you, sometimes for free or less than an HVAC contractor would charge. When these leaks are fixed, the testing will pay for itself in energy savings.

Your HVAC can work more efficiently if you take into consideration which way your home faces. Strategically placed trees can block sunlight and help keep the home cooler without the use of an AC unit. If there’s less heat inside your home, your AC will work less.

To gain maximum HVAC efficiency, you need efficient windows and doors too. Make sure the seal is impenetrable from outdoor drafts, and that none of the air you’re paying to heat or cool escapes either. Ask a contractor to test them for you.

When choosing the proper air conditioner size, measure the area that needs cooling. This calculation will tell you how many BTU’s you need. Calculate the total square footage of all rooms if you will use the air conditioner to cool more than one room.

Replace the air filter to keep your HVAC system working well. It’s easy and has a huge impact on performance. Filters don’t cost too much to use, and that isn’t a lot each month for you to pay.

Consider which direction the air flows out of your air conditioner when you decide where to place it. If all you have is a corner spot, ensure that the air is not directed towards a wall.

Does your contractor provide you with an all-day emergency hotline? This includes during extreme weather.

Condenser Unit

During the winter months, you will want to cover your condenser unit to protect it. This will help it to last longer. Also, you shouldn’t use your compressor if the temperature outside drops to below 60 degrees. Use the fan instead to avoid putting strain on the condenser unit.

The next time your HVAC is being looked at, think about getting a programmable thermostat added to the unit. This device can save you a great deal of money on your heating and cooling bills because when you adjust the temperature to sync with your lifestyle.

Always look for the ENERGY STAR logo on a unit before you make the purchase. These products are held to a high standard of efficiency. The standards are set forth by the EPA. EPA. You will save money by paying attention to these details.

Dealing with a broken HVAC system is a nightmare every homeowner dreads. However, as long as they take the time to study up on the topic before something calamitous occurs, the process need not be so terrible. Having these tricks and tips handy will help a homeowner solve any HVAC issues affordably and promptly.