Keeping the outside condenser clean of debris and leaves will improve the system's efficiency. Always shut off all power to your unit for any work beyond superficial cleaning. Also, it is important to clear the outside condenser unit from any debris that maybe trapped inside.
If you have units that are condensers outside of the home, keep them free of debris. You don't know the amount of stuff that can pile up right after heavy winds or a storm. It may even overheat, which can ruin your system.
A good place to place your compressor unit outside is in a shady spot. The unit will operate more efficiently to cool your home if the intake air is cooler to begin with.
Have your HVAC serviced at least yearly. Check into it twice a year before you head into the hot and cold months. Check it out just to be safe even if there is nothing broken.
When it gets cold outside, turn off the outdoor condensers. This should be done when the temperature drops below 60ºF to avoid damage. This will maximize the life of your unit.
Install a programmable thermostat to save energy costs. With this device installed, it can help you save money on your energy bills by you having the power to regulate the temperature throughout the day. Also, you can find a thermostat that is controllable from a computer or smart phone.
Turn your AC off if no one is at home. The house will only heat up to a certain point. The unit will use a large amount of electricity to combat the heat during the day when the house is empty.
Don't let your house get too hot. Your average AC unit can only reduce the temperature in your home by about 20 degrees in a normal span of time. Assuming the temperature in your home rises to a hundred degrees, you will only be able to reduce that by twenty degrees. Depending on how humid the environment is, that is not a healthy temperature for the human body when it rests during sleep.
If you are purchasing an AC unit, there are calculators on the Internet that can help you figure out the right size. If you get something that's too big, it won't work as well for you in the end. Check the manual to see what the manufacturer rates the unit to cool for accurate information.
Always check to see how long a company or contractor has been working for. It is more likely that a contractor who has been in business for a longer time will give you better value for your money. If you choose to hire a new contractor, you may be risking things.
Think about getting a radiant barrier in your attic so your HVAC system can run better. It blocks heat from the inside out, lowering the amount of energy needed to cool your home in the summer. This can also help you make the attic useful again.
Check the ducts to find any leaks if you you feel your existing system is not up to snuff. The local utility company may be able to do this for you at a cost lower than what a contractor would charge you. This testing can have large financial benefits.
With the right information, even an HVAC system is simple enough to understand. It is always good to take enough time that you will be able to learn what you need to know. Use these guidelines to make it work.
