Content by-Winstead Simonsen
In order to have a happy home you never want to let your HVAC system go bad. So the best thing you can do is have one that works properly. Everyone at some point in time deals with HVAC issues, but it doesn't have to be bad if you understand how to keep it in good shape. Below you will find helpful HVAC tips, so continue on.
When your contractor comes to fix your unit or install a new one, he should walk around your home and investigate what's going on with your current set-up. They should be looking for how much insulation you have, where your windows are and what quality they are and more.
Make sure that you regularly clean debris that might build up on external condenser units.
https://www.seattle.gov/city-light/residential-services/home-energy-solutions/heating-and-cooling-your-home can never tell when things will pile up, especially following rain or wind storms. These can wreak havoc on your units. Also, you are risking your system overheating.
When you start making calls to get someone to help with your HVAC system, it's a good idea to know what system you have before that phone call. It is important to understand what model it is and which brand it is. Also, if it has been serviced before, you should have that information handy. This will give contractor's a better idea of what to expect before they show up, which will help things go more smoothly on arrival.
Never allow the temperature in your home to rise to a dangerously high level. AC units will only cool a house down 20 degrees. If your home gets above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, you'll only cool down to still above 80. Depending on what the humidity is, this may not be cool enough to be a safe temperature to sleep at when recovering from the harsh summer heat.
Make sure the equipment you are buying is ENERGY STAR compliant. It may seem a small thing, but it isn't. Products that are ENERGY STAR compliant can save you a lot of money in energy costs over the year. It can be over $100 easily, sometimes a lot more.
Service your HVAC yearly. When it's checked out, the motor will be inspected, moving parts well oiled and the level of freon adjusted if necessary. These things will boost the performance of your system.
In order to cheaply cool your home, turn the temperature up. If you take a few showers a day or just drink a cold ice water, you'll find that you're saving a lot of money on your utility bills by keeping the thermostat a little higher than usual in your home.
Manage the heat flow into your home with window coverings to help out your HVAC system. In the warmer months, use drapes, curtains and blinds to block out sunward facing windows to keep heat from building up through the greenhouse effect. Alternatively, make sure that sunlit windows are letting light and warmth in during the colder months.
Outer coils can be cleaned with a regular outdoor hose before you turn the unit on for the season. That said, interior coils should be taken care of by a professional so that you don't do any damage as you attempt to clean them. Bring someone in to complete a check up.
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.
Have your HVAC inspected every year to ensure that it is working properly. The technician will check your filters, drain lines, air flow and Freon levels. This will have your HVAC working at peak performance saving you money all season long. It will also alert you to any repairs that need to be address before they become big problems.
Have you been thinking about buying a new HVAC system? You should first think about several things. Systems have a rating based on how well the system is able to cool or heat an area well. It may be wise to get a unit that is a bit larger than needed. Just don't get one that is smaller than you need.
Want to save the most you can with your HVAC unit? Consider increasing your room temperature by a single degree or two. Each degree means money that stays in your pocket. In fact some estimate that each degree you move up can work out to be around 9% in overall energy savings.
Think about installing a digital programmable thermostat to keep your heating and cooling bills low.
american standard hvac contractors near me have timers that allow you to completely control your HVAC use. You can set the heat and cooling to only turn on when you are home and to turn off when you are at work.
Any contractor that gives you a quote over the phone shouldn't be trusted. To truly evaluate your needs, they must come into your home and check it out basement to attic. If they make promises without even seeing your house, there is no way they'll be able to keep them.
If your outdoor compressor unit sits in the sun, consider building a shade over it. Air in the shade is about 5 degrees cooler than air in the sun. This can have a significant impact on your cooling bill. When done properly, you could see up to a 10 percent savings over the season.
If you already have someone servicing your HVAC unit every year, consider talking to them about installing a new system. Even if you need something custom built, they may have staff on hand who can do what you need. If you already trust them, you know they'll be right for the job.
Make sure you wipe up any water that is close to the air intake of the vents of your HVAC system. Clean up any water that is standing around because water can cause mold to easily expand. Some water buildup is normal but if you're picking up water more than once every six months you might have a problem, so contact a HVAC technician.
Choose a contractor who knows how to work with your current system. If they work with that set-up frequently, they'll quickly diagnose any problems and know exactly how to maintain it. Choosing such a firm will save you time and money, and will also save you from unnecessary headaches.
A good HVAC system can keep your home comfortable, no matter how hot or how cold it may be outside. However, it can be hard to find the perfect system for your needs. There is so much that you need to remember. The tips you have read here will be very useful to you.