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It's frustrating when your HVAC system isn't working properly, especially during those times of years when it's very hot or cold and you rely on your system to keep you comfortable in your home. To find suitable people who will repair or install equipment to find out as much as you can about the situation and topic beforehand. Read on to learn how to do this.

Prior to putting in a service call on your HVAC, be able to identify it. Get the brand, model name, and if you can you should get the maintenance history out. This will ensure that you can give your new contractor all the information they need.

If the outside of your home has condenser units, ensure they are constantly cleaned. You can never tell when things will pile up, especially following rain or wind storms. These can wreak havoc on your units. It can overheat, leading to disaster within your system.

Be careful when doing yard work that you do not get debris on or in your unit. Aim your grass cuttings in a direction away from your unit. When blowing leaves, do the same. Always take care when passing your HVAC units while moving leaves, grass or other debris.

If you want things to be more efficient, get new units outside or have your current one moved into the shade. This will help you save on your energy bill.

Condenser units for the outdoors should be shut off when it starts to get cold outside. If temps go below 60 you run the risk of damaging a unit that remains on. This will help keep your HVAC system in good health for years, which means you will save on repair bills.

If possible, your single pane windows should be replaced with double-paned ones. 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. As with other steps you take to improve your ability to keep your air conditioned air or heated air inside your home, double-paned windows can help you save on energy costs.

A good way to save money with your air conditioning is by installing a programmable thermostat. A thermostat that's programmable is going to save you around ten percent on the heating and cooling costs you have to pay when you turn it back about fifteen percent for a part of the day. Also, you can find a thermostat that is controllable from a computer or smart phone.

Service your hearing and cooling systems once each year. The contractor should oil the parts that move and check the motor and freon levels. Those things are going to help your system at peak performance.

Air conditioners occasionally freeze up, literally. There can be occasional freezes in their drain lines, and these are usually confused with plumbing leaks. Turn your unit to the fan setting to turn off the compressor. You should leave the repair to a professional, but switching to the fan setting should start to melt the ice.

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. Read over the owner's manual to see the manufacturers suggestions as to the cooling capacity of the unit for the most accurate information.

Check any company you are considering to see how long it has been around. Companies that have been around for longer have a proven track record that you can use to decide if they are worth the time and money. Hiring a contractor who is just starting out can be risky.

A radiant barrier is something that you may want to consider. It blocks heat from the inside out, lowering the amount of energy needed to cool your home in the summer. It can even make your attic a livable space.

If you are a having trouble with your existing system, check for leaks in the ducts. Your utility company will usually test the unit for free or for a small fee. You'll see the test pays for itself once all leaks are fixed.

Make an HVAC system run more efficiently by determining what direction your house faces. If you have some trees that are placed in good spots, you can be sure they block the sunlight during the morning. The less heat in your home, the less time your air conditioner will have to work.

You may feel a bit overwhelmed when your system needs maintenance. However, with the right knowledge, the process need not be so terrible. Hopefully, you're now ready to tackle any issues that come up with your HVAC system.