If you want to keep your air conditioning unit running efficiently, make sure you replace or clean the air filter once a month. Check the owner's manual on the a/c for instructions on how to clean the filter. Never run the unit when the filter is removed and let the filter dry before reinstallling it.
When seeking a new contractor, ask loved ones for referrals. They'll often have already had someone in for similar work and will know who to trust and who to avoid. If your family hasn't used anyone, ask co-workers or other people you trust in your community for some references.
To boost the efficiency of your HVAC system, you should put your unit in a shady place. The unit will have to do less work cooling this air.
If you are purchasing an AC unit, there are calculators on the Internet that can help you figure out the right size. If you buy something too large it won't be efficient as it cools the same. Look at the manual to determine the recommended size for air conditioners.
Whether you have an air conditioner in a window or outside your home, be sure to keep it in the shade. The cooler the air around it, and the cooler the condenser itself, the easier a time it will have of keeping the air inside your home cool as well.
When you buy a new air conditioning unit, don't let the salesperson talk you into too large of a unit. This will be a waste of money and won't efficiently cool your home. The longer a system runs, the more efficient it will be when it's running, so look for one which runs 15 to 30 minutes.
During cold weather , be sure to turn off outdoor condenser units. This should be done when the temperature drops below 60ºF to avoid damage. This can keep your system working for years and save you a lot on repairs.
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 an air conditioner calculator online to determine what models are best for you. If you purchase a unit that's too large, it will not be efficient since it'll cool the same. Check the manual it comes with for the information you need.
Get an estimate before agreeing to have any work done on your HVAC unit. This will help keep you from being surprised by a bill at the end. Any reputable technician should be able to look at your unit, determine the problem and give you an estimate as to how much it will cost to fix it.
Be careful of sounds in your HVAC. If the condenser fan begins to make a grating or clicking sound, the blades could be hitting an obstruction. If blades get bent, don't try straightening them. You could unbalance them and cause them to hit the condenser coil. This could loosen the motor in the fan. Try replacing the bent blades with new ones. Make sure the new blades can freely rotate without wobbling.
Improve the efficiency of your air conditioning by installing ceiling fans. Change the airflow direction of the ceiling fans. During the summer, the blades should move in a counter-clockwise direction. During the winter, the blades should move clockwise to help move the hot air in the ceiling down into the room.
Ask people you know for recommendations if you need to hire a contractor for an HVAC system. People who have been happy with work they have had done in the past are normally more than happy to recommend their contractors. This can also help you to figure out some names of businesses that you should avoid at all costs.
Every season inspect the outdoor condenser unit of your HVAC system. Remove any weeds 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.
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Before having someone install a new HVAC system or maintain or repair yours, make sure they are insured. Having someone who is insured work on your system will assure that if anything happens while they are working at your home, they are financially covered and you will not be responsible.
Consider what kind of experience a company has before you consider hiring any contractor for HVAC work in your home. He or she may not have experience working with your type of system or performing the work that you need done. Although it is certainly possible for an inexperienced contractor to do the job right, it is best not to flirt with danger.
Learn the rules and regulations regarding licenses and insurance before hiring an HVAC professional. This way you can check to make sure that any contractor you consider hiring meets any requirements. This can prevent a costly legal process, especially in case of an accident on site. Without insurance, you could be held liable for damages.
When hiring a contractor, choose one that offers 24-hour emergency hours. You want a company that will be there when you need them.
For your outdoor HVAC unit, make sure that your foliage is cleared around it. Two feet distance between the HVAC unit and shrubs is a good amount to remember. If you let the foliage creep up on the unit, it can cause all sorts of issues with debris and growth into the system.
Now that you know so much about HVAC units, you're ready to take control of your own. Use these tips as you ensure yours is in tip top condition at all times. Continue to learn more about these systems so that your family can rely on you to keep them cool in the summer and warm all winter pleated long.
