Content writer-Eason Pierce
Understanding how HVAC systems work can really save a homeowner a lot of money. The last you want is to come home one day and find that it is not working properly. That only leads to misery, which I'm sure most have us have experienced at one time or another due to a faulty HVAC system. Great tips on maintaining your HVAC system is in the following article, so keep reading!
Before calling someone to repair your system, make sure you know what kind of HVAC system you actually have. 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.
Putting in a programmable thermostat is a smart way to cut back on air-conditioning costs. If you adjust it to keep the house a little warmer or a little cooler during the time you are sleeping, you may see your energy bill go down by as much as ten percent. Furthermore, there are a few programmable thermostats that you can control from your computer or any other web-connected device.
If you currently have a manual thermostat, consider installing a programmable one. You can set your system for different temperatures depending on time of day and if anyone is home. Also, you can set upper and lower temperature settings to allow for a comfortable range of temperatures so that heating and cooling don't kick in when not needed.
Make sure that your contractor provides a home assessment. Not every HVAC solution is for everyone. Your home could have special needs for heating and cooling. Your contractor should do a walk around of your space to judge what is best. If they aren't be sure to request one.
If you can, install double-paned windows throughout your home. Double pane windows can help minimize how much you use your air conditioner in the summer, because they keep cool air inside the home. This also helps retain heated air 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.
In the winter, wearing layers can save you a ton of money on your utility bill. If you can install a digital thermostat that makes the house cooler when you're asleep and warmer just before you get up, you can see significant savings on your next bill when it arrives.
If
https://vimeo.com/589486142 isn't working well enough, test out the ducts for leaks. Call your utility company if they are leaking to see about getting a test. Having these repaired is worth the cost of testing if you had to hire a contractor to do the job.
As you compare new HVAC system, be sure to look at the energy ratings for each unit. The higher they are, the better they will be. Efficiency will not only get your home comfortable faster, but it will save you on your energy bills when you are running your new unit.
Your HVAC system can run more efficiently if your attic has a radiant barrier. It can help keep heat out during the hot summer months, which means you will lower your power bills. You may even find that you can use the attic space more effectively.
Improve the efficiency of your air conditioning by installing ceiling fans. Change the airflow direction of the ceiling fans. During the summer, the blades should move in a counter-clockwise direction. During the winter, the blades should move clockwise to help move the hot air in the ceiling down into the room.
If your home gets hot in the summer and you'd like to use your air conditioner less often, consider a metal roof. It reflects the heat right back up into the sky, allowing your home to gain less heat on sunny days. Since metal roofs are permanent, you'll save on repair and replacement costs also.
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 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.
Consider an annual service agreement for technicians to regularly inspect your AC unit. Schedule brief inspections for the winter to make sure nothing is obviously wrong. The most important time for an inspection and service is just before it starts getting warm. You don't want to discover an AC breakdown when you need it working most.
When looking for an HVAC company, find one that is available when you need them. Reliable companies can be reached easily at any time. This includes both day and night. A prospective company should also values your resources and time. They should be able to schedule service calls at your earliest convenience.
Check for debris if you hear clicking in the HVAC unit. Most of the time such a noise is created by an object striking the blades of the fan in the system. You can solve the issue by removing debris. Have a look at the fan prior to putting in a call for service.
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.
In the winter, keep your condenser unit properly covered. This will help your condenser last longer when not being used. Also, don't use the compressor at all if the temperature outside is below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Instead, switch only the fan on.
If the HVAC contractor assumes a "one size fits all" approach to installing your unit, look elsewhere. In order for the system to be right for your home, the contractor needs to come out, find your air ducts, and generally get a feeling for how your home is laid out. If he or she does not do that, move on.
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
https://norfolkdailynews.com/select/state-budget-includes-plan-for-26-million-in-deferred-maintenance-at-wayne-state/article_e84665a2-af6d-11eb-ad0e-47c207dd7ee8.html takes a bit of research and study. Use the advice found above, and you will always be prepared for anything.