The system you use to heat or cool your home is probably the largest influences on how much energy you use, and how much it costs. If your HVAC system needs updating, make sure the technician you hire is knowledgeable. The following article provides the information you need to hire the right professional.
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.
When the spring comes and the days begin to warm up, call in a pro to give your HVAC a once over. This will ensure that your air conditioner works as expected all summer long, stopping you from sweating it out when you least expect the system to fail.
Every spring you should clean the coils and fan blades on your condenser fan. First, make sure the power is off to ensure nothing moves while you are working. Next, pop off the grill, pull out the blades and start cleaning them and the unit itself off gently.
The coils and blades on the fans should be cleaned once a year. Be sure to turn the power off first; you don't want anything to move. Remove the grill and the blades, and then you can give them all a gentle clean.
Be sure to check your evaporator coil drains frequently when your air conditioner is running. If this tube backs up, you can find water damage to your walls, ceilings and floors. If you end up with mold just use a solution of bleach and water to clean out the tube.
Manage the heat flow into your home with window coverings to help out your HVAC system. In the warmer months, use drapes, curtains and blinds to block out sunward facing windows to keep heat from building up through the greenhouse effect. Alternatively, make sure that sunlit windows are letting light and warmth in during the colder months.
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.
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.
It is a good idea to replace single-paned windows with ones that have double panes. Windows that are double pane keep the cool air in and can greatly reduce the amount of time your air conditioner will need to run. Conversely, this also works to keep warm air in during colder months.
Do your homework on a number of HVAC companies before selecting the one that has the best reputation and service record. It is a good idea to check with the BBB and look for reviews from prior clients. These steps can help ensure you make the smartest and most informed choice.
Make sure your HVAC is clear when working outside. You should try keeping any vegetation about two feet away from your outdoor units. Keep the areas above it and on each side of it clear. Make sure you aim your grass clippings away from the unit HVAC Service Near when mowing. Keep leaves from getting inside your unit in the fall.
When buying an air conditioner, you want to find out with a SEER rating of 13 or higher. 13 is the minimum standard set by the government, so higher ratings, while not mandatory, are going to offer you better efficiency. SEER ratings can go as high as 19, so keep this in mind as you shop.
Use your HVAC system to heat your water for free! In the summer, residual heat pulled out of your house is used to heat water through a geothermal system. This will cool your home while allowing you to save a ton on hot water costs, plus it's environmentally friendly to boot!
Choose a good HVAC company. You need to find one that has a solid reputation. It's important that it has been around for several years and is backed by a good reputation in customer service. Find one that has trained professionals and qualified technicians to help with all kinds of customer needs. They should be able to handle any HVAC job no matter how simple or complex.
Never hire anyone to work on your HVAC system unless they are licensed and bonded. This industry is one where mistakes happen often and you want to make sure that you are protected. You do not want to be stuck paying for medical bills that are more expensive than the work you were having done.
Never hire anyone to work on your HVAC system unless they are licensed and bonded. This industry is one where mistakes happen often and you want to make sure that you are protected. You do not want to be stuck paying for medical bills that are more expensive than the work you were having done.
When buying an air conditioner, you want to find out with a SEER rating of 13 or higher. 13 is the minimum standard set by the government, so higher ratings, while not mandatory, are going to offer you better efficiency. SEER ratings can go as high as 19, so keep this in mind as you shop.
Do not let the heat build up inside your home. Lighting, electronic devices and appliances are all common sources of heat inside the home. To prevent this excessive heat, do not put televisions or lamps close to your a/c's thermostat. These appliances make the a/c think that the house is hotter than it really is, causing the system to run longer than needed and wasting energy.
Ask for referrals from friends and family. The best way to judge if an HVAC company is going to do a good job is from people who have actually used them. Ask your acquaintances if they have had work done, and find out if they were happy with the job, timeliness, and budget.
Now you know how to keep your HVAC running smoothly. Pay attention to keeping it maintained to make sure it won't go bad. Apply the above advice to keep it in good shape, avoiding unpleasant surprises.
