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.
When purchasing a new HVAC system for your home, be sure it is energy efficient. These days, most new HVAC systems are energy efficient; there is a energy star label on the equipment. However, to be sure your utility costs do not go through the roof, choose equipment that is energy efficient.
If possible, your single pane windows should be replaced with double-paned ones. Having double pane windows allows your air conditioning unit to be run much less during the summer, because the cool air is kept inside the home. As with other steps you take to improve your ability to keep your air conditioned air or heated air inside your home, double-paned windows can help you save on energy costs.
If at all possible, install double-paned windows in your home instead of those with a single pane. Try to insulate your windows to prevent air from being lost. Conversely, they keep warm air in during the winter.
If you do have a good experience with a HVAC product or contractor, let others know. Go online and post a review so that people can easily find out who and what brands to trust. At the same time, you can check reviews online to learn more yourself about what's available.
An investment in a smart thermostat is truly going to save you money. You can program it to turn on and off at certain temperatures or times, allowing you to ensure that your air conditioner or heater isn't running when it doesn't need to be, saving you a ton.
Before you hire any HVAC companies, find out how the amount of time they've been in business. 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 a contractor who is just starting out can be risky.
Clean your filters! If you have a window unit air conditioner, there will be a filter right under the grill you can vacuum. If you have a furnace or outdoor units, they will also have filters to be cleaned or replace. A dirty filter can make your unit inefficient or even let it overheat.
All contractors charge differently for their services, so get at least four or five quotes before hiring a particular person. You have the potential to save a great deal of money if you make several calls prior to reaching a final decision. Get in touch with more than a few contractors to best understand the going rate.
Get an estimate before agreeing to have any work done on your HVAC unit. This will help keep you from being surprised by a bill at the end. Any reputable technician should be able to look at your unit, determine the problem and give you an estimate as to how much it will cost to fix it.
Use plants to increase your air conditioner's effectiveness. An AC unit fully shaded by trees and shrubbery can operate up check here 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.
Whether you have an air conditioner in a window or outside your home, be sure to keep it in the shade. The cooler the air around it, and the cooler the condenser itself, the easier a time it will have of keeping the air inside your home cool as well.
When buying an air conditioner, you want to find out with a SEER rating of 13 or higher. 13 is the minimum standard set by the government, so higher ratings, while not mandatory, are going to offer you better efficiency. SEER ratings can go as high as 19, so keep this in mind as you shop.
If you don't want to install ductwork in your home, consider a mini-split system instead. They work form the outside in, allowing your whole home to cool without a central air conditioner. This allows you to enjoy all of your indoor space in a cool, comfortable way all summer long.
If your home gets hot in the summer and you'd like to use your air conditioner less often, consider a metal roof. It reflects the heat right back up into the sky, allowing your home to gain less heat on sunny days. Since metal roofs are permanent, you'll save on repair and replacement costs also.
These tips should be of use when you have to tackle contractors or HVAC units. Get it installed properly, fix it when necessary and maintain it over time. Use the advice you read above and you'll make the right decision every time when it comes to getting your HVAC unit working right.
