Content by-Boye Shields
Your HVAC system is a key piece of equipment in your home, and letting it go bad is not an option. You probably came to this article to learn how to keep your HVAC system running and healthy for a long time. Then you're going to love the article below, which has plenty of helpful tips.
If you must hire someone to help you out with your HVAC system, be sure to learn about all of the requirements your state has legislated regarding licencing and insurance. You need to be able to ask anyone you plan to hire if they meet these requirements before you hire them.
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.
Make sure
Visit Homepage 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.
If you do have a good experience with a HVAC product or contractor, let others know. Go online and post a review so that people can easily find out who and what brands to trust. At the same time, you can check reviews online to learn more yourself about what's available.
Save energy use and money by turning off the air conditioner if there is nobody home. Turning it off does allow the temperature to rise, but only so far. If the A/C is on when you're gone, it'll be working hard constantly.
Cover your unit when you are mowing the lawn. Have the grass shoot in the opposite direction. This also applies to leaf blowing and any other yard work that results in debris.
Make certain the HVAC company you choose has a proven track record. Firms that have been in business for a long time are easier to assess. If you choose to hire a new contractor, you may be risking things.
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.
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.
Always ask for references before you allow anyone to start doing work on your HVAC system. Call several of them to make sure that they are legitimate. Many people take the word of the contractor when it comes to customer satisfaction and that can prove to be a mistake in the end.
If your system doesn't seem to be working efficiently, check your ducts for leaks. You can call in your local utility company to do the testing for you, often for free or at a lower cost than a contractor. Once leaks have been fixed, you will save substantial money on heating and cooling costs.
Clean your filters! If you have a window unit air conditioner, there will be a filter right under the grill you can vacuum. If you have a furnace or outdoor units, they will also have filters to be cleaned or replace. A dirty filter can make your unit inefficient or even let it overheat.
When you're purchasing an HVAC system, make sure that you get a unit that is properly sized for your space. If you buy a unit that is too big, it won't do an efficient job. Look at the manual to determine the recommended size for air conditioners.
To boost your home HVAC's efficiency, install solar screening. It reflects sunlight back outside, stopping it from heating up your home. Your air conditioner will be able to run less in the daytime, and your energy bill will plummet as a result. You can install this on any glass you have, doors or windows.
To block out the sun on hot summer days, allowing your air conditioner to run less frequently, invest in heat blocking drapes. These textiles come in beautiful patterns and colors today, looking just like their designer counterparts. They will keep the heat out so that your home stays cooler without costing you an arm and a leg on utility bills.
If you plan on having a service on your HVAC unit, ask the technician what he will be doing. Any thorough service should consist of several things. The technician should check temperature levels, pressures, amperage draw, and coolant levels. They should adjust any belts that need it and clean the coils.
When comparing quotes from multiple contractors, think carefully about those on the bottom of the price list. It's likely they didn't really look into your home deeply, or they're making promises they can't keep. Do they offer you a guarantee? Are they insured? Do they have a current licence in your state?
Get your work order in writing. You should always have a written proposal before the HVAC contractor begins work. This will help prevent overspending, or any extra fees or expenses that you may be unaware of. Make sure you go over it with your contractor so that you understand every charge.
It is important that any contractor you hire is familiar with your make and model of HVAC unit. Ask them what brands they work with most frequently and compare it to what you have. If
Click To See More can't find a contractor that knows your brand well, instead consider who has the best reputation.
It is tough to deny the fact that a failed HVAC system can wreak havoc in the life of any homeowner, particularly during times of extreme weather. Fortunately, there are things that can be done to mitigate the frustration experienced during such events. Using the advice presented above is a great way to stay prepared.