Though keeping a home’s HVAC system up and running at all times is one of the most fundamental tasks a homeowner has, not everyone knows how to do it well. Understanding how it works and how to maintain it is a smart idea. This article will help.
Before you start calling to find someone to fix your unit, make sure you know the type of system that is installed. Write down what brand your system is along with the model number and, if they’re available, maintenance records. This will ensure that you can give your new contractor all the information they need.
Outside Condenser
Help the outside condenser fan run efficiently by cleaning the coils and fan blades before the summer starts. Always make sure you shut off the power before you do any work on the unit other than superficial cleaning. Additionally, it’s important to clear out leaves and other debris from the outside condenser unit.
If your condenser units are outisde, make sure any debris is cleaned from them regularly. Debris can pile up after a storm, bringing potential damage with it. The whole thing can overheat, causing major problems and possibly an enormous expense for you.
The operation of your HVAC system can be in danger when the tree leaves begin to fall. At least twice a week, you need to clean the grill of your fan. You can head off future problems that can be caused by blockages by making sure there is a free flow of air to your fan.
Look for shade when placing a compressor outdoors. Your unit won’t have to work as hard to cool the inside air if the outside air it sucks from is cooler.
In order to boost efficiency, place new outdoor units or move your current unit to a place which resides in the shade. If the air your machine draws in is already cooler, it will require less energy to regulate before it’s filtered into your home.
Have the HVAC system serviced twice per year. Most homeowners choose to have their unit inspected during the spring and the fall months. This helps prepare for the coming weather changes of summer and winter. Even if you do not detect a problem, you can identify and fix any potential problems when you have it checked.
Replace any single-paned windows with double-paned versions. Double pane windows can help minimize how much you use your air conditioner in the summer, because they keep cool air inside the home. It keeps heat in during the winter, too.
To keep your system running smoothly have your system serviced once a year. The motor should be checked, the parts oiled and the freon levels inspected. All of these little jobs will add up to big savings in energy use, with the improved efficiency.
If nobody is home, turn off the AC. Even though the house will get hotter, it won’t get too bad if the unit is off. The unit will use a large amount of electricity to combat the heat during the day when the house is empty.
Air conditioners occasionally freeze up, literally. There can be occasional freezes in their drain lines, and these are usually confused with plumbing leaks. Try switching to fan-mode and disabling your compressor to test whether the water is a leak or melting ice. While switching the system to the fan setting should begin the ice melting process, the best thing to do is to hire a professional to deal with the problem.
A working HVAC system is crucial for a comfortable home. You will need to find a quality professional to install it though. Luckily, any homeowner can know just how to proceed when they are aware of the information contained in this article.
