Article writer-Ratliff Stevenson
Many homeowners will find it difficult to find help if their heating and cooling systems fails. To keep yourself from having a problem with this, you really should spend your time to learn what you can on this subject. This piece is meant to provide solid instruction on hiring proper HVAC contractors.
Every spring you should clean the coils and fan blades on your condenser fan. Make sure to turn off the fan's power first to be safe. Then, take the grill off, pull the blades out, and gently clean them as well as the unit itself.
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.
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.
https://www.slideshare.net/danmpartridge/air-conditioning-elk-grove of people don't take that important last step.
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.
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.
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.
Find a place that is shaded for your compressor. When your unit is bringing in cool air, it will not have to work as hard to cool the air as it moves it inside, boosting efficiency.
When you have an outdoor unit, be sure to keep all plants, flowers, shrubs and trees at least two feet from it. Anything that grows inside it, either above the ground or even roots beneath the soil, can block it up and cause it to break. Give it some breathing room.
It is a good idea to replace single-paned windows with ones that have double panes. Double pane windows will allow you to use less air during the summer because cooler air will stay in your house. Your home will also stay warmer in the winter.
If you are a having trouble with your existing system, check for leaks in the ducts. Call the utility company to test for you, it will usually be cheaper than a contractor. If you do have leaks that are repaired, this testing will pay for itself.
The windows and doors in your home must be efficient in order for your HVAC to perform as efficiently as possible. Be sure their seal is tight so no exterior air gets in or interior air gets out. A professional can sometimes test these for you for free.
Test your duct work for leaks. Your local energy company may do such testing at a reduced cost or maybe even for free. Once you fix the leaks, the savings will be more than worth the hassle.
Research multiple contractors before choosing one. It can be helpful to check out the online reviews of previous customers and it is always wise to check their reputation as listed on a Better Business Bureau website. Doing all of this will make sure you hire the best company for your HVAC needs.
Look online for a/c sizing calculators so you can really understand the unit size needed for your home or room. A unit that is bigger than you need simply isn't efficient. Read over the owner's manual to see the manufacturers suggestions as to the cooling capacity of the unit for the most accurate information.
Every season inspect the outdoor condenser unit of your HVAC system. Remove
more info and leaves that may be obstructing air flow to the unit. Hose off the inside and outside of the unit to remove any dirt build up. Cover the motor with plastic bags prior to rinsing the unit so that you do not get it wet.
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.
When water condenses on your air conditioner, it drips into a pan and drains out. This drain should be inspected on a regular basis. If algae forms in the drain line or if the drain line freezes, you could be in for some expensive repairs. The drip pan could overflow causing extensive damage to your ceilings.
Hire an HVAC contractor that is efficient and quick. The most reliable companies make sure their technicians stay on schedule and keep appointments. These techs should be able to figure out what is up with an HVAC rather quickly. After a quick diagnosis, they resolve issues swiftly.
Now that you have read this article, you should be much better informed about what to look for in a new HVAC system. This is an important decision, so it is not one that you should make in a hurry. Take your time so that you can find the right system for your needs.