HVAC TIPS
Here are a few things to consider before calling an HVAC Contractor:
Tip #1: Change your Filter(s)
The "A" in HVAC is for Air, and without Air your system will not perform as designed. There is a lot of mis-information about filters on the web, and if you have any questions about the filter you should be using please call us. We also offer an affordable filter service during our Maintenance Tune-Up's.
Tip #2: Keep It Clean
Simply brushing away the leaves from your Air Conditioner or wiping away the dust around your Furnace can lead to improved performance. If the area around your Furnace is dusty it can pull those particles into the return and by-pass the filter at some point. We recommend sealing any ductwork gaps and keeping every area of the home dust free. There are many youtube video's explaining how to wash out an Air Conditioner, but if you are uncomfortable doing this, please call us for maintenance. We do not recommend opening any portion of the HVAC system by an untrained person.
Tip # 3: Open the Vents
We visit many home's that have vents that are blocked by furniture and sometimes closed completely in an effort to save energy. This is not recommended by HVAC professional's, and can actually cause premature failure of your equipment. Some home's do require seasonal duct balancing in our community. This is typical on ranch home's with a basement and standard (un-zoned) Duct Work. We do offer zoning options, but a lot of times we find that a simple balancing of vents or dampers creates a more comfortable space without breaking the bank.
Tip #4: Set It and Forget It
While it might make sense to use a set-back thermostat while you are away, it doesn't always save energy. The more efficient your system is, the less likely you will need to worry about extra savings from setting the thermostat back. Think of it like this, you are at work for 8 hours on a cold winter day. Setting the temperature down 5 degrees will allow a portion of the heat you already paid for to escape through walls and windows to the outside air. Then when you come home you crank up the stat to warm the place up. That system is working extra hard to play "catch up." Then, the little savings you gained during the day is spent in doubles going into over-drive. This is especially important for our heat pump owner's, as their system's typically have an auxiliary heat source that will also run while playing "catch up." If your are unsure of the settings on your thermostat, and would like to program the set-back settings to meet your needs, please call us for service.
Tip #5: Check the Flame
While your furnace is running, peak into the sight window, if so equipped. The flame should be a crisp blue flame, and means that there is a proper combustion. If it is not crisp and blue, then you should call for a service technician immediately. Improper combustion can mean many things, and the risk of an improper flame can be dangerous to the occupants. We have the tools and experience to check the gas pressures and combustion properly, so we can dial that furnace in. Not only is an improperly adjusted furnace inefficient, it is not safe.
Tip #6: Clean the Drain
The condensate drain line serves as the drain for the inside portion of the air conditioner, high efficient furnace, and sometimes the humidifier. When dust or pollutants mix with this water, it can cause a build up and clog the drain. An improper drainage can cause nuisance faults of your system, and this procedure is typically fairly easy to maintain by homeowners. We recommend a cup of vinegar, or even bleach, poured down the drain twice a year. This can prevent some of these blockages from happening.
Tip #7: Check Your Utility's
In the event you believe your system has failed, please look at any breakers and that the gas service is available before calling for service. This can deter unnecessary service fee's from an HVAC Company. If a breaker is tripped please do not immediately reset it. Visually inspect the unit for any signs of failure. We recommend calling for service at this time as resetting a breaker for a failed electrical component can cause damage to other parts of the system or cause premature wear and tear of an expensive part.
Tip #8: Schedule a Maintenance Tune-Up
An HVAC system is typically the largest investment inside of a home or business. Similar to other mechanical systems, ie. vehicles, if operated without periodic maintenance, components can fail at a premature rate. Any man-made mechanical part is going to fail at some point, but periodic maintenance can prolong failures and increase efficiency. During our in-depth Maintenance Tune-Ups, we strive to uncover any weak points of your system. At that time we will provide solutions, whether it be to wait it out or repair soon to prevent a catastrophic failure. Our promise to you is to not nit-pick your HVAC system just for the sake of replacing parts or recommending unnecessary add-ons. We will provide facts and measurements, because "if you're not testing, you're just guessing." We want to gain your trust for life!
