Keeping your home's HVAC system running at its optimal performance is a task most homeowners should do, but not everybody knows how to accomplish that. To learn more, you have to stay on top of your game. The following article can assist you.

Prior to putting in a service call on your HVAC, be able to identify it. Write down what brand your system is along with the model number and, if they're available, maintenance records. Then, you'll be ready to tell the contractor what they need to know.

In order to keep your outside condenser fan running efficiently, make sure the coils and the fan blades are cleaned before the cooling season begins. Prior to working on or cleaning the unit, be sure to turn off the power. Also, it is important to clear the outside condenser unit from any debris that maybe trapped inside.

Each spring, clean the fan blades and coils on your condenser. Before you get started, cut the power. Then take off the grill, take the blades out, and gently clean them.

Your HVAC unit may suffer when trees start to lose their leaves. The grill on the fan can become cluttered with debris, which will cause a serious operating deficiency. The fan should have a clear path for air to come in. If it is blocked, your system will suffer.

If the fan on your condenser includes oil ports, they must be lubricated annually. They generally have a rubber or metal cap on them. Chose SAE 20 oil, which has been proven to be the most effective.

As the temperature outside drops, remember to turn off your outdoor condenser unit. To prevent damage, turn off your unit if the outside temperature is less than 60 degrees. This helps the system last much longer and will have to be repaired less often.

One way to save some money with A/C is by having a programmable thermostat installed. It may save you as much as 10 percent of your overall utility bill if you turn your thermostat down by 10-15 degrees for a portion of the day. Furthermore, there are a few programmable thermostats that you can control from your computer or any other web-connected device.

You can keep energy costs in your home lower by choosing to have professional maintenance done on your HVAC unit. When they come out for a service visit, expect inspections of freon levels and the motor, and they will oil all the moving parts. This maintenance means that your system will operate optimally.

If everyone is out, turn the air conditioner off. When you turn it off, the house heats up, but only to a certain threshold. If you leave it on all day, it's fighting the heat constantly, meaning it's using a lot of electricity to do its job.

Occasionally, ice will form on your AC. You may even mistake the frozen drains as an issue for a plumber. If you notice this, switch your thermostat to fan only to disable the compressor. You should still call a professional to help regardless.

Research what size air conditioner you should purchase for the size of your home by using online calculators they have for this purpose. If you buy a unit that is too big, it won't do an efficient job. To get the right information, look in the manual to find out the rating the manufacturer gives the unit for cooling.

Prior to hiring any HVAC contractor, you should ask how long their business has operated. Established companies that are doing well will usually be the best ones to go with. Hiring a new contractor means taking a bigger risk.

If you aren't sure who to call for HVAC maintenance, repairs, or installation, look online for reviews. Many websites allow consumers to share their experience with a service. You will be able to make a more informed choice if you do this.

A radiant barrier is something that you may want to consider. This will block heat from coming in, which means that less energy will be needed to keep your home cool. You may suddenly find that the attic even looks like a great option for another bedroom!

An HVAC system allows you and your family to rest comfortably in your home. But, if you aren't sure who to call, it can be quite frustrating. By using the above information, you now know what to do.