You might not pay attention to your HVAC system in the home until it starts malfunctioning. At that point, however, it is suddenly of immense importance. Finding the right contractor to install a new system or fix your existing one can be difficult. You will get help with the process here.
Before choosing an HVAC contractor, think of what you wish to have done. It’s hard for these contractors to give phone estimates without seeing the current system you have. If you do not know what you want, the process can become tedious, especially over the phone. It’s a good idea to learn this information in advance.
If your fan condenser has oil ports, you must lubricate it once per year. You can find these ports covered with rubber or metal caps. Choose a SAE 20 oil whch is lightweight and non-detergent and place 10 drops or less into each port, ensuring it doesn’t overfill.
Make certain that an outdoor unit is in the shade. The unit will operate more efficiently to cool your home if the intake air is cooler to begin with.
If the house is yours or you’re permitted to, replace the windows that are single pane with windows that are double pane. Windows that are double pane keep the cool air in and can greatly reduce the amount of time your air conditioner will need to run. Likewise, heat is better retained during the winter.
Putting in a programmable thermostat is a smart way to cut back on air-conditioning costs. Programmable thermostats can automatically dial back settings, saving you money. Additionally, these items can be controlled remotely through your computer.
To cut energy costs, you should service your cooling and heating system once a year at least. The service will include motor inspection, oiling of moving parts, and a freon level check. These few simple things will help your system to run at its peak performance.
If everyone is out, turn the air conditioner off. You don’t need to keep the house cool if you aren’t there. If will be constantly fighting the heat and using lots of electricity if it is left on all day.
Never allow the temperature in your home to rise to a dangerously high level. A simple AC unit will usually only cool the home around 20 degrees within a short period of time. If you have your home at above 100 degrees then you can only get it to about 80 or above. When you factor in humidity, this can still be dangerously hot for the human body at rest.
Icing up is common in air conditioners. Freezing drain lines are also possible and can be mistaken for leaks. If you notice this, switch your thermostat to fan only to disable the compressor. Get a professional to deal with this, even if you see the ice start melting because you turned the compressor off.
Now that you are done reading, you know quite a bit more about HVAC systems. You now know where to look, what you are looking for, and what they should be doing when you hire them. Keep these tips in mind to treat your HVAC system right.