What You Must Know About HVAC Purchases

An HVAC system failure is one of the most frustrating occurrences a homeowner can face, largely because they may not know the right person to call. However, by simply spending a bit of time learning about what to look for in a contractor, things can actually go rather smoothly. Continue reading to gain some helpful insights.

Be sure to get every quote or estimate in written form. You have no recourse on a verbal agreement, so a written contract is a must. This will allow you to follow up if something goes wrong or you dont get what you were promised, protecting you from shady contractors.

Clean the fan blades and coils on the condenser fan every spring. Start by turning off the power to avoid having anything move when you work on it. Remove the grill and the blades, and then you can give them all a gentle clean.

You must keep your HVAC systems oil ports lubricated annually. The port usually has either a rubber or metal cap on top of it. Look for an oil that is lightweight and then put about 10 drops inside the port. You dont want to put in too much.

Make sure that your contractor provides a home assessment. Not every HVAC solution is for everyone. Your home could have special needs for heating and cooling. Your contractor should do a walk around of your space to judge what is best. If they arent be sure to request one.

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. Its worth spending the time to clean the filters.

If you have a window air conditioner without a timer, use a regular outlet timer to control when it is on or off. These are the same ones you use for holiday lights, so all you have to do is plug your air conditioner into the timer and set it to cool you during the day.

Before you invest in any HVAC contractor, make sure you spend a good deal of time researching their reputations and credentials. Check them out at the BBB and look for reviews posted by former customers. This will help you make the best choice.

Change your air conditioner filter quarterly, or four times a year. This not only keeps the air coming into your home easier and cleaner to breathe, it takes a lot of stress off of your AC unit itself. You get to enjoy health, money savings and reduced energy use altogether at once.

Occasionally, air conditioners ice up. Freezes also occur in your drain line. These freezes are easily confused as leaks to the untrained eye. If this is something you notice, switch the thermostat in your home to fan only so the compressor is disabled. If this doesnt work, call a professional.

Make sure things dont 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.

It is tough to deny the fact that a failed HVAC system can wreak havoc in the life of any homeowner, particularly during times of extreme weather. Fortunately, there are things that can be done to mitigate the frustration experienced during such events. Using the advice presented above is a great way to stay prepared.