What You Need To Learn Before Calling An HVAC Tech For Help
Hiring an HVAC professional to either replace old heating and cooling equipment or install a brand new unit is something with which not every homeowner is entirely comfortable. The best way to confront this type of challenge is to gain some great tips and tricks. The article below should serve that purpose quite nicely.
Do not be surprised if the HVAC contractor you choose does an evaluation on your home. Any good contractor will spend time looking at the system you currently have and what the needs are for your home. They will also take a look at your duct system and look for air leaks.
In order to keep your outside condenser fan running efficiently, make sure the coils and the fan blades are cleaned before the cooling season begins. Except when you do superficial cleaning, you need to always make sure the power is off on the unit. Also, make sure you remove any debris or leaves from the condenser unit outside.
As you notice the tress begin to lose their leaves, keep an eye on your outdoor condenser unit. Frequently clean the fan grill when trees are shedding leaves. Your fan needs an unobstructed way to get air inside, and the more blocked up it becomes, the more headaches will develop for you with the system.
If your evaporator coil, found inside your home, becomes dirty, your unit will lose efficiency. Just pop off the front panel of the furnace and check to see that the coil is dry. Using a brush attachment on a vacuum, gently clean the coil of any dust or other debris.
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.
To help lower cooling costs when not at home, make sure the air conditioner is turned off. By raising the temperature from, for example 78 to 80, your house will be warmer, but only up to 80 before your AC kicks in. If you decide to set the temperature to 82 or 83 or so on, your AC won't go on until it reaches that temperature. If it is on all day, it is trying to maintain a cool temperature constantly, using a great deal of electricity to fight the heat.
It is possible for air conditioners to ice over. There can be occasional freezes in their drain lines, and these are usually confused with plumbing leaks. If you see this happen, disable the compressor by turning your thermostat to the fan only setting. The fan setting can help melt some of the ice, but you should still call a professional to check your unit out.
Change your filter on a regular basis. This is one of the easiest HVAC tips that you can do yourself. It is also one of the least expensive things that you can do to ensure that your system is running efficiently. Clogged and dirty filters can make your unit work 5-10% harder.
You should think about putting in a radiant barrier in order to help your system run efficiently. This will block the heat that comes in. It it's installed properly, you might even be able to use your attic as an extra room.
If you plan on having a service on your HVAC unit, ask the technician what he will be doing. Any thorough service should consist of several things. The technician should check temperature levels, pressures, amperage draw, and coolant levels. They should adjust any belts that need it and clean the coils.
Inspect your HVAC unit quickly for blockage if you become away of any clicking sound. Sometimes debris interferes with the cooling system fans. All you need to do is remove the debris to solve the problem. Look before calling in a technician.
Have your HVAC inspected every year to ensure that it is working properly. The technician will check your filters, drain lines, air flow and Freon levels. This will have your HVAC working at peak performance saving you money all season long. It will also alert you to any repairs that need to be address before they become big problems.
To boost your home HVAC's efficiency, install solar screening. It reflects sunlight back outside, stopping it from heating up your home. Your air conditioner will be able to run less in the daytime, and your energy bill will plummet as a result. You can install this on any glass you have, doors or windows.
Determining the right HVAC service professional to provide repair or replacement work can be tough when a certain amount of know-how is lacking. To really ensure that the best approach is being taken, some advance research is essential. Hopefully the material presented above has fulfilled readers' needs for useful insights in this realm.