Hiring an HVAC professional to either replace old heating and cooling equipment or install a brand new unit is something with which not every homeowner is entirely comfortable. The best way to confront this type of challenge is to gain some great tips and tricks. The article below should serve that purpose quite nicely.
Make sure you 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.
Place your HVAC unit in the shade to boost efficiency. When your unit sucks in cooler air, then much less is required to cool it further, which saves you money on energy bills.
If you want to save money once a new HVAC system is put in place, be sure to pick ENERGY STAR rated products to use. They are very energy efficient so your new system won't cost you a ton when it comes to your utility bills every month, recouping some of your installation costs.
Ask for references and be sure to call them as well. You are dealing with a high ticket item here, so you'll want to do your due diligence to make sure you are getting the best for your money. Ask for references, but don't stop there. Call each reference to check. A lot of people don't take that important last step.
Don't get grass clippings on your outside unit. Aim the grass in a different direction from the unit. This also applies to blowing leaves or moving debris. Just be careful with that exterior HVAC unit.
Consider all of your alternatives before installing a central air conditioner. You can only cool certain rooms, use whole-house fans, or even make use of a geothermal system. The more efficient the system you set up, the less you'll spend on utility bills over time as you use it.
To help you pick a good HVAC contractor, carefully search for information that offers honest reviews about the companies that you might be looking to hire. Check with the BBB and look for reviews of potential companies online. These steps can help ensure you make the smartest and most informed choice.
Make sure things don't get too hot or cold where your thermostat is. Any electronics or heat sources like lamps or televisions nearby can trick the thermostat into thinking the home is warmer than it actually is. This just means it runs your air conditioning longer than necessary, wasting energy and money.
Make sure your condenser fan is in good working order by wiping down the fan blades and the coils. Shut the power off before you do anything. Then, take off the grill and get the blades out. Clean everything with care.
If you want to ensure you choose a trustworthy HVAC contractor, invest a little time HVAC Contractors Near Me Reviews in researching a few different companies, checking out their reputations. Inquire with the BBB and look elsewhere for other reviews from customers. Doing all of this will make sure you hire the best company for your HVAC needs.
If you are purchasing an AC unit, take measurements. You need to know how big the area is that you want to have cooled off. You will need about 20 BTU per square footage of the room. If you need to cool multiple rooms, make sure to add the square footage together.
When selecting the spot to put the outdoor compressor for your unit, choose somewhere that gets plenty of shade. When the unit sucks in cooler air, then less work is required to cool it further which in turn boosts the units efficiency.
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.
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 reduce the air conditioning's energy cost, close drapes, blinds and shades that cover windows which face the sun. Also, white shades will reflect the heat away from the house, keeping it cooler and saving you money. It is also recommended that you close the vents in rooms that are not used often. This will ensure that you are not spending money cooling less-used rooms.
Opt for an Energy Star HVAC unit. These types of units meet strict efficiency guidelines. These standards are determined by the United State Environmental Protection Agency. Agency for Environmental Protection. Doing a little homework can save you a lot of money.
Make sure you wipe up any water that is close to the air intake of the vents of your HVAC system. Clean up any water that is standing around because water can cause mold to easily expand. Some water buildup is normal but if you're picking up water more than once every six months you might have a problem, so contact a HVAC technician.
When your unit is clicking, immediately go out and look to see if anything is inside it. This may be because debris is restricting the movement of the fan blades. All you have to do is get this debris out of there to fix the problem. Check it out before spending on a contractor.
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.
Properly functioning home HVAC means room temperatures indoors in seasons both cold and hot. Improperly functioning home HVAC means variable humidity levels indoors, uncomfortable temperatures and air that is possibly even dirty to breathe. Keep your family comfortable, healthy and happy with the ideas within this article about your home's HVAC.
