Content by-Dam Langley
The subject of HVAC systems might strike you as complex when you hear people discussing it. This is something you must do your homework on. However, there is a lot of information out there that you may not be aware of that can make this easier to learn about.
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.
When a contractor gives you a list of references, be sure to make use of it. Call the people on the list and ask about the quality of the work, how closely they came to their quote and whether or not the work was completed according to the promised timeline.
When you cut the grass, don't cover the outdoor units with their clippings. Shoot grass the other way. Be just as mindful when you blow leaves to not blow them toward your HVAC equipment.
Look for deals and rebates on the HVAC system you are having installed. Many ENERGY STAR units come with huge rebates either from your local utility company or the government itself. Investigate your options as it could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars on the installation costs.
Shut off the air conditioning if nobody is home. With the system off, the house will only heat up to a certain temperature. Leaving the system on all day will cost a lot of money in terms of electricity.
In order for your new unit to be as efficient as possible, or to make older units more efficient, make sure it's put in a shaded area. If the air your machine draws in is already cooler, it will require less energy to regulate before it's filtered into your home.
Try to stay away from HVAC contractors that ask for upfront payments before they are willing to get started on the work they were hired to do. In many cases, this means that they are more concerned about getting paid than they are about making sure the job is done well.
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
air conditioning repair near me 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.
Occasionally, air conditioners ice up. There are sometimes also freezes that happen in a drain line, and this can be confused for a plumbing leak. If you notice this, switch your thermostat to fan only to disable the compressor. If the problem persists be sure to call in a professional.
When water condenses on your air conditioner, it drips into a pan and drains out. This drain should be inspected on a regular basis. If algae forms in the drain line or if the drain line freezes, you could be in for some expensive repairs. The drip pan could overflow causing extensive damage to your ceilings.
Make certain that you get written estimates before you hire a contractor. This can help you to save money by knowing what people are charging. Call around 5 contractors so that you can get the best deal possible.
If you hear a clicking noise coming from your HVAC unit, immediately start looking for any obstructions. Sometimes, debris will be the cause of the disturbance. Just clear the debris to remove the problem. Take a look before calling a service technician.
A great way to reduce the stress on your HVAC unit is to install ceiling fans in your home. During the summer, you can have them blow downward to cool the air and make your home feel more comfortable. In the winter you can reverse the direction and circulate warm air trapped at the ceiling.
You should focus on finding an HVAC contractor that can offer you a warranty on the work they are doing. This is a sign that they are confident in their ability to get the job done well. This will protect you in the event that is not done right and needs to be fixed.
Call in a contractor to find out if you can install an air conditioner on your current forced-air system without having to install new duct work. This can save you a ton of time and money, plus it takes up less space in your walls and rooms to boot.
Be sure to check your Filter Check light frequently on any stand-alone units. If it is on, turn the unit off as you can't operate it without a filter in place. Clean the filter carefully and return it to its proper location, but don't operate the unit if the filter is still wet.
When you hire a contractor to do a job, be sure to listen to what they tell you. For example, they can give you advice on how to keep your HVAC in working order. Ask about maintenance tips and how often you should be cleaning or servicing the unit.
Any HVAC contractor or installer should have an emergency number available to customers around the clock. Your system can go out after hours, and if you need help, you want someone who can be there at any time of the day.
Do not let
pop over to this site build up inside your home. Lighting, electronic devices and appliances are all common sources of heat inside the home. To prevent this excessive heat, do not put televisions or lamps close to your a/c's thermostat. These appliances make the a/c think that the house is hotter than it really is, causing the system to run longer than needed and wasting energy.
If you have known the frustration of an HVAC failure, you know that one of the best things you can do as a homeowner is acquaint yourself with a skilled contractor. However, knowing what to look for in an HVAC professional takes a bit of research and study. Use the advice found above, and you will always be prepared for anything.