Content written by-Randrup Parker
What is HVAC? It's what warms you in the winter and cools you in the summer. Are you having issues with your current set-up? Would you like to install something new like an upgrade? To find out more about the situation, check out the advice that can be found below.
Ask for referrals when hiring someone to install your HVAC system. Someone may seem like they know what they are doing, but you cannot simply take their word for it. You should be able to call past customers to get an idea of what to expect from this particular installer.
An HVAC system is a really expensive investment. This is why you should do some browsing before purchasing your system. Try to find a good sale so you can get your system at a discount. Check out a couple of sites before making a decision. A great site to begin is www.energystar.gov.
If you want to know more about efficiently heating or cooling your home, go online and download the ENERGY STAR Guide. It provides information for homeowners to learn more about how they can save money while still keeping their home comfortable all year round, so it is a worthy ready.
It is very important that your HVAC system is serviced two times a year. The ideal thing to do would be to have it checked out in the fall and spring so you're able to figure out if everything is ready for the cold and hot months. It doesn't matter if your unit seems to be properly working, it is still advisable that you perform maintenance and resolve any potential problems.
You should be sure to change the air filter of your HVAC system once every six months. Neglecting to do so can cause dust particles to clog the air ducts. In turn, your system will not work properly and you will find your bills going up. It's worth spending the time to clean the filters.
If you are uncertain about which HVAC contractor to call when you experience an equipment failure, take the time to ask friends and family for personal recommendations. By doing this, you will be able to feel more confident about the choice you make, because you will have gotten the opinions of people you already know to be trustworthy.
Be sure to check your evaporator coil drains frequently when your air conditioner is running. If this tube backs up, you can find water damage to your walls, ceilings and floors. If you end up with mold just use a solution of bleach and water to clean out the tube.
A programmable thermostat can help you save money on your air conditioning bill. Such thermostats help you save around ten percent when it comes to energy costs. Furthermore, there are a few programmable thermostats that you can control from your computer or any other web-connected device.
The energy efficiency of a unit should be taken into consideration when purchasing a new heating and cooling system. Although you should be concerned about the price of a unit, the efficiency of the unit will save you thousands over the lifetime of the heating and cooling system and should weigh heavily on your buying decision.
Use plants to increase your air conditioner's effectiveness. An AC unit fully shaded by trees and shrubbery can operate up to 10 percent more efficiently. However, do keep spacing in mind. Air flow must not be constricted, and technicians need room to work when they come out to service your unit.
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.
Be sure to test for leaks in the ducts if your system seems inefficient. Your utility company can test this for you, oftentimes at no charge. If not, it should be less expensive than a HVAC contractor. When you have leaks repaired, the testing has paid for itself.
Consider painting the outside of your home in a light color to reflect heat if you live in a hot climate. If your summers are cool, use a dark color to instead heat up your home in the winter. This simple change can end up saving you a lot on your utility bills.
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.
When considering what size AC unit your home needs, be sure to measure the immediate area you need to cool. Generally, 20 BTU per square foot is ideal. Add the square footage for multiple rooms together.
Every season inspect the outdoor condenser unit of your HVAC system. Remove any weeds and leaves that may be obstructing air flow to the unit.  
visit the up coming post  off the inside and outside of the unit to remove any dirt build up. Cover the motor with plastic bags prior to rinsing the unit so that you do not get it wet.
Make sure that any contractor that provides you with a quote also performs a heat-loss calculation. This determines the amount of BTUs your system needs to make sure your home stays comfortable. The contractor should also count the number of doors and windows in your home, as well as check insulation, and measure the internal space.
While it is common practice to negotiate a rate quoted by a contractor, you should not offer an amount that the contractor will find offensive. They have to pay for things like insurance and overhead costs. Keep this in mind when you are trying to haggle with them for a better rate.
Keep your evaporator coil clean. A dirty coil will cause the unit to strain when cooling air. You can clean the coil yourself easily. Simply remove the front panel to expose the coil and use a soft brush attached to a vacuum to remove any dust and debris that has accumulated on the coil.
Knowing that your HVAC system needs to be repaired or replaced can be worrisome.  
https://mountaineagle.com/stories/eight-graduate-from-bevill-state-alabama-power-hvac-program,33938  has given you the things you need to know to be confident. Hopefully you now feel prepared to hit the ground running the next time you have an issue with your systems.