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Many people do not know about HVAC systems and contractors. This can be problematic when an unexpected emergency occurs. However, these suggestions will help you to make the best choices regarding your system.

Before you start calling to find someone to fix your unit, make sure you know the type of system that is installed. You need to know who manufactured the product and the item number. Also, get the maintenance records from your files if you have them. This will let you know that you're able to give the contractor the information that can help them.

Each spring, try cleaning the fan blades and coils on the condenser fan. Before you get started, cut the power. Then, remove the grill, then remove the blades and begin the cleaning process of the blades and the unit.

As the trees around your home lose leaves, it can cause your HVAC unit trouble. When you see nearby trees shedding their leaves, clean the fan grill on your unit constantly. The fan must stay clear in order to function, and if it gets blocked, you will have to contend with problems.

Check to determine if the fan condenser on your HVAC system is equipped with oil ports, and if it is, be sure to lubricate every year. These are usually covered with rubber or metal caps. Choose a SAE 20 oil whch is lightweight and non-detergent and place 10 drops or less into each port, ensuring it doesn't overfill.

If you want things to be more efficient, get new units outside or have your current one moved into the shade. If the air your machine draws in is already cooler, it will require less energy to regulate before it's filtered into your home.

When colder weather arrives, switch off all outdoor condenser units. This means that you should turn it off to prevent damage if the weather falls under 60 degrees Farenheit. This helps your system remain in good working order.

To keep your system running smoothly have your system serviced once a year. When it's checked out, the motor will be inspected, moving parts well oiled and the level of freon adjusted if necessary. These few simple things will help your system to run at its peak performance.

Your home should not have temperatures that are too hot. Air conditioners can only really cool your home down 20 degrees or so within a reasonable time period. Assuming the temperature in your home rises to a hundred degrees, you will only be able to reduce that by twenty degrees. This can still be way too warm for you.

To choose a reliable HVAC contractor, the best thing to do is to do your homework on a number of possible firms and check out their reputations. Check with the BBB and look for reviews of potential companies online. Take these steps to ensure you make wise choices.

Look for sizing calculators based on the air conditioner you have to figure out how big of a unit you need in your home. If you get a unit that is too large, it will cost a lot in energy costs. Check the manual to see what the manufacturer rates the unit to cool for accurate information.

Check the Internet for reviews on those who fix or install HVAC systems. There are plenty of online websites that give people the opportunity to leave comments about the service they received. This will help you find a top notch professional.

A radiant barrier is something that you may want to consider. It will block the heat and lower the energy necessary to keep your home cool in the summertime. You may even find that you can use the attic space more effectively.

Do you need a new HVAC unit? Many considerations must be scrutinized. An HVAC system gets its rating by how effective it will heat and cool an area. Getting a unit that's a little larger than you need will be better than getting one that's smaller.

Know which direction the house faces so that your HVAC system operates more efficiently. Strategically placed trees can block sunlight and help keep the home cooler without the use of an AC unit. A cooler home means less work for your air conditioner.

Obstructions often cause a clicking noise in a compressor. Many times it could be debris hitting the cooling system fans. Just pull it out and clean the blade off. Check it out before spending on a contractor.

Having windows and doors in place is essential to make sure your HVAC system runs well. Be sure that they're sealed well so that air from the outside or inside doesn't come in or escape. A professional can also test the windows and many times the testing is free.

When the heating or air conditioning breaks, a homeowner immediately becomes disgruntled. But, taking time to study the topic makes the process much easier. With some knowledge close at hand, problems can be solved efficiently and quickly.