Energy Saver 101: Everything You Need To Know About Home Cooling
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1. Learn How To Get HVAC Issues Taken Care Of
An HVAC unit must be properly maintained in order to work properly. They can be very expensive to
fix when something goes awry, so it's best to properly maintain them and prevent them from
breaking down. Learn more about HVAC systems with the tips below, and you should never find
yourself wondering what to do with it or about it.
If the outside of your home has condenser units, ensure they are constantly cleaned. Things pile up
after storms and damage your system. It could overheat and cause a disaster with your unit.
When you are cutting the grass, be sure not to cover your outdoor units with clippings. Have the
grass shoot in the opposite direction. This same tip applies when you are blowing fallen leaves
around the yard. Grass and leaves pose a serious problem for the internal functioning of your unit.
Try to prevent debris from getting in your HVAC unit. Make sure the fan's grill is cleaned often
during the fall. The fan should have a clear path for air to come in. If it is blocked, your system will
suffer.
2. If your condenser comes with oil ports, you should lubricate it yearly. They generally have a rubber
or metal cap on them. You should select an SAE 20 oil since it is lightweight and does not contain
detergent. Be sure to use just 10 drops or so, or your system may overfill.
Put outdoor condensers 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.
Your HVAC unit requires regular maintenance at least two times per each year. The spring and
autumn times are the best time to have it checked. Even if everything seems fine, check things out to
find potential problems.
When the weather cools down, turn your outdoor condenser off. When the temperature goes below
60 degrees, shut off the unit in order to prevent damage. This will help keep your HVAC system in
good health for years, which means you will save on repair bills.
Having a programmable thermostat installed is a money saving idea. This will help you to keep the
temperature at optimal levels. Some newer programmable thermostats have computerized controls
you can access from your personal computer, laptop or mobile media device.
You can keep energy costs in your home lower by choosing to have professional maintenance done
on your HVAC unit. Make sure the person takes a look at the motor and examines the levels of freon.
These repairs will keep your HVAC system running smoothly.
Air conditioners tend to ice up at times. The drain line also occasionally freezes, which can be
misdiagnosed as a plumbing leak. If you notice this, switch your thermostat to fan only to disable the
compressor. The ice will melt. You will likely need professional help to stop the problem.
To know how large of an air conditioner you need, look for a calculator online. Buying a unit which is
too big reduces efficiency. Any unit's manual will be able to give you an accurate idea for the size of
the unit versus your home.
You should always review the experience and history of an HVAC specialist before hiring them. A
company that has been in business for a long time will have a solid track record, and you can use
this to figure out if you should spend your money with them. Hiring an inexperienced contractor can
be risky.
Speak with family and friends to get a recommendation for a reputable HVAC contractor. People
that have had quality work done are usually more than willing to share this information. This is also
a great way to get names of companies that should be avoided.
Check the Internet for reviews on those who fix or install HVAC systems. Many Internet sites let
customers discuss experiences with certain companies. This is a good way to find decent people to
hire.
Ask for quotes from multiple contractors. If you call people before you work on hiring one person,
you can save some money overall. Call at least four or five different HVAC specialist to find the best
rates.
If your system doesn't seem to be working efficiently, check your ducts for leaks. This is a job your
local utility provider may do for you inexpensively or even free of charge. When you get leaks
repaired, you may see that the testing pays for itself.
3. Determine which way your home faces in order to establish efficient HVAC operation. Trees placed
in the right places can keep the sun from heating your home too much. The less heat inside the
house, the less time that the AC has to work.
You need to check your windows and outside doors to make certain your HVAC runs well. Make sure
the seal is impenetrable from outdoor drafts, and that none of the air you're paying to heat or cool
escapes either. Ask a contractor to test them for you.
As this article has said before, your HVAC system is something that really is important, and you have
to be sure you keep it working well. These simple tips that you have read above can save loads of
money on expensive repairs. It is your job to ensure you know all you can about your HVAC unit and
you understand everything that has been discussed in this article.