Maintaining a comfortable living environment at home is essential to feeling happy, and having a poor HVAC system can really make your life miserable. Not only will you incur higher costs, it will make your body feel very uncomfortable if it too cold or too hot. Below you will find many good tips on how to make sure that your HVAC system stays as good as new.
Make sure you check the filters in your air conditioning unit. This is important because checking your filters could make the difference between inexpensive repairs and more expensive ones down the line. Try to put it into your monthly schedule so that you don't forget to check the filters regularly.
When the spring comes and the days begin to warm up, call in a pro to give your HVAC a once over. This will ensure that your air conditioner works as expected all summer long, stopping you from sweating it out when you least expect the system to fail.
Make sure you ask for an estimate in writing before choosing a specific HVAC vendor. There are a lot of moving pieces when it comes to purchasing these big items. You'll want to compare not only the cost of the equipment, but also the set up and the overall energy costs.
One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a new heating and cooling system is the manufacturer's warranty. Units come with a variety of warranties. Choose one with a long warranty for maximum long term savings. Generally, it is advised that homeowners should purchase the extended warranty if one is offered.
Have the HVAC system serviced twice per year. The ideal thing to do would be to have it checked out in the fall and spring so you're able to figure out if everything is ready for the cold and hot months. This type if preventative maintenance is highly necessary to ward off any expensive troubles from coming your way.
To know how large of an air conditioner you need, look for a calculator online. If you buy something too large it won't be efficient as it cools the same. Any unit's manual will be able to give you an accurate idea for the size of the unit versus your home.
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.
An investment in a smart thermostat is truly going to save you money. You can program it to turn on and off at certain temperatures or times, allowing you to ensure that your air conditioner or heater isn't running when it doesn't need to be, saving you a ton.
To reduce the air conditioning's energy cost, close drapes, blinds and shades that cover windows which face the sun. Also, white shades will reflect the heat away from the house, keeping it cooler and saving you money. It is also recommended that you close the vents in rooms that are not used often. This will ensure that you are not spending money cooling less-used rooms.
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.
Make sure that the HVAC contractor you plan to hire does not use subcontractors to do their work. Many people use this as an excuse to shirk their responsibility in the event that something goes wrong when your system is being worked on. Only allow this if there is a note in the contract about what will happen if there is an issue.
When you want a HVAC contractor who is reliable, you need to spend some time in researching the background and reputation of several potential companies. It is a good idea to check with the BBB and look for reviews from prior clients. Take these steps to ensure you make wise choices.
Your HVAC system will be more efficient if your doors and windows are efficient as well. They should be able to seal tightly without letting air seep in or out. Testing for energy efficiency may be free, if you are interested in hiring a professional to find out.
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.
Is your home's electrical set-up ready to handle a new air conditioning unit? Most homes have 115-volt circuits in place, but larger air conditioners need 230-volts to be used. Some smaller units may need their own dedicated circuit as well to ensure your home doesn't go dark when you turn them on.
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 Air Conditioning Engineer 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.
Be sure to select an experienced and competent HVAC company. Reliable companies keep a close eye on their technicians and ensure they honor their appointments. A knowledgeable technician will also easily diagnose any problems with your HVAC. They should offer you answers which can be implemented right away.
Check in on the contractor's references. Just because the reference was offered by a specialist doesn't mean that they are real. It only takes a couple minutes to call to check a person out by calling, so don't worry about doing that.
When hiring a contractor, be sure to ask for a list of references. Check to see what other customers have experienced with them. That is why it is vital that you check references, so you don't run into those shady contractors!
This information should have helped you understand your HVAC better. Just don't rush it or you may make things even worse than they already are! You will work everything out in the end!
