The HVAC system in any home is very important to have it functioning properly. Everyone at some point in their life has had to deal with a faulty energy system, but this should not be a reoccurring problem. If you would like good tips on how to ensure that you HVAC system stays in good working order, then should read the following article.
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.
Before you hire anyone to do any work on your HVAC, be sure to get a written estimate which has itemized costs listed on it. This will ensure that comparing one contractor to another will be simple as you can see what one offers that another doesn't, or what price they're charging for the same items.
Prior to choosing an HVAC customer, try to have an idea of what you want done. They won't be able to offer you a quote if they haven't seen your system. It's even harder if you're not able to explain what you've done. So, you should know this beforehand.
Lubricate your fan condenser at least once a year. These ports are often covered by a rubber or metal cap. Look for an oil that is lightweight and then put about 10 drops inside the port. You don't want to put in too much.
If you have fans in place to help make your HVAC more efficient, be sure that they're turning in the right direction. They should be pushing air downwards over the people in the room to help cool their skin. If it's blowing upwards, all it does is push hot air into the room.
You should be sure to change the air filter of your HVAC system once every six months. Neglecting to do so can cause dust particles to clog the air ducts. In turn, your system will not work properly and you will find your bills going up. It's worth spending the time to clean the filters.
When you are looking to buy a new air conditioner, consider your climate. If you live in a hot, dry area, then an evaporative cooler will be your best bet. If you live in a humid area, opt for a compressor-style unit as it's the only one which will work.
If you are looking to save money with your HVAC system, consider turning down the air conditioner in the summer and turning the heat down in the winter. Putting on a sweater on a cold day can save you a ton of money on your utility bill, as can enjoying a cold drink instead of heavy air conditioning use.
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.
Always ask for references before you allow anyone to start doing work on your HVAC system. Call several of them to make sure that they are legitimate. Many people take the word of the contractor when it comes to customer satisfaction and that can prove to be a mistake in the end.
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.
There are sizing calculators available to determine the proper sized system for your home. A unit that is bigger than you need simply isn't efficient. Look at the manual to figure out the manufacturing rates the unit for accurate cooling information.
Looking for an efficient way to cool your home? Consider installing a whole-house evaporative cooler. They use water to cool air instead of traditional chemical coolants, using a ton less energy to cool your home than those other units. That said, they do work best in dry climates and not at all in humid ones.
Find a HVAC company that knows its stuff. Reliable companies insist that their technicians are prompt. They should quickly know what's wrong with your system as well. Once they know what's wrong, they should also know how to get them resolved efficiently and quickly.
Make sure things don't get too hot or cold where your thermostat is. Any electronics or heat sources like lamps or televisions nearby can trick the thermostat into thinking the home is warmer than it actually is. This just means it runs your air conditioning longer than necessary, wasting energy and money.
Consider how long a contractor has been in business before you hire them. The longer they've been in your community, the more likely they are to do a good job. Fly by night operations pop up wherever people haven't heard of them before, and they're just the firms you want to avoid.
Before you hire a HVAC contractor, you should find out what their experience is. It's important that a contractor is experienced in the area of the kind of work you require. Though it is possible that a newer contractor will be just fine, you may not want to take the risk.
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.
Every season inspect the outdoor condenser unit of your HVAC system. Remove any weeds and leaves that may be obstructing air flow to the unit. Hose off the inside and outside of the unit to remove any building cleaning company dirt build up. Cover the motor with plastic bags prior to rinsing the unit so that you do not get it wet.
After reading the above article, you should now know that your HVAC system should be properly maintained. If you let it go, you will only end up with major problems in the future. The last thing you want is to come home one day and realize you have no air coming through your vents. To prevent this from happening, study the tips that you just read to ensure the HVAC in your home lasts a very long time.
