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The HVAC system is something many people would like to know about, but they think it is too difficult to tackle. Of course, every little bit of information will improve your understanding. In this article we will share some good tips and helpful information.

Before making that repair phone call, make sure you know the specifics about your particular system. Write down what brand your system is along with the model number and, if they're available, maintenance records. This will enable you to give your chosen contractor any information they might need.

If you struggle with your HVAC, try touring your home before calling a professional. Pay attention to which areas of the house are warm and which ones are cool. The contractor can probably figure out and fix the problem easier.

Know what work you want done before you select an HVAC contractor. They won't be able to offer you a quote if they haven't seen your system. They also won't be able to offer you a quote if they don't have a detailed idea of what you want done. Thus, it is worthwhile to have this knowledge ahead of time.

Be sure to regularly clean debris from external condenser units. Particularly after bad weather, you should inspect your unit. It can get overheated, which will cause problems with the whole system.

Clean the coils on the condenser fan from time to time. Start by turning off the power to avoid having anything move when you work on it. Pull out each of the blades and clean them one by one.

If trees are losing leaves around your home, this can impact your HVAC unit. Clean the fan grill often when leaves are falling. The fan should have a clear path for air to come in. If it is blocked, your system will suffer.

It's a good idea to put your outdoor compressor in a shady area. If the unit is taking in cooler air, the efficiency will be boosted since it will not need to work as hard.

Have your HVAC serviced at least yearly. The normally recommended time for HVAC system inspections is once before the peak cooling season when it gets hot and you'll be using your AC, and once before the peak heating season, during the cold months when you're likely to be using your heat. Even if you don't think anything's wrong, it's still worth an inspection.

When it gets cold outside, turn off the outdoor condensers. Avoid damaging the unit by turning it off when the outdoor temperature drops below 60 degrees. This will help keep your HVAC system in good health for years, which means you will save on repair bills.

Installing double paned windows can save a lot of money over single panes, so upgrade if you are able. Having double pane windows allows your air conditioning unit to be run much less during the summer, because the cool air is kept inside the home. Your home will also stay warmer in the winter.

Research the companies that you consider using. Inquire with the BBB and look elsewhere for other reviews from customers. Take these steps to ensure you make wise choices.

Sometimes, air conditioning units ice up. Sometimes the drain line will freeze, causing leaks. If you see this, try switching your thermostat to just the fan so that it disables the compressor. The ice will melt. You will likely need professional help to stop the problem.

Before you hire any HVAC company, ask them how long they've been open for business. It is more likely that a contractor who has been in business for a longer time will give you better value for your money. It's a risk to hire a new one.

If your system doesn't seem to be working efficiently, check your ducts for leaks. The local utility company may be able to do this for you at a cost lower than what a contractor would charge you. When these leaks are fixed, the testing will pay for itself in energy savings.

You need to check your windows and outside doors to make certain your HVAC runs well. Make certain they have tight seals to keep air inside. You could have a professional run a test for you, and sometimes this testing is done at no charge.

When determining which size of air conditioner to buy, first measure the area which needs to be cooled. You will need about 20 BTU per square footage of the room. If the unit will be cooling several rooms, combine their square footage in your calculations.

Working on HVAC won't be too difficult if you can implement the advice that you were given in the above article. The above tips can help simplify your experience. Start as soon as you can for the best results.