Finding The Right Contractor For Your Heating And Air Conditioning Systems

You need the right contractor to install and service heating and air conditioning systems. So how do you go about finding one to suit your needs?

1) Ask friends and family for referrals. Have they had their HVAC systems serviced recently? What was the contractor like? Did he do an efficient job? Was it good value for money? Would they use him again? Are they happy to recommend him?

2) Ask local contractors for references and make sure you check them. You should ring the people on the list and ask them questions. What type of job did they have done? When was the work done and were they happy with the results? Did the project stay on schedule and on budget?

3) Check local contractors hold the proper qualifications. Those working with heating and air conditioning systems have to hold specific certifications as well as insurance cover. Ask to see proof of these and check into them if you have any doubts as to their authenticity.

4) Look for Energy Star rated companies. If they show this symbol it means that they are meeting the guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency.

5) All agreements should be in writing and you shouldn't part with any cash until you have both signed a project agreement. You shouldn't have to pay the entire cost upfront although it is usual to pay a deposit and perhaps the cost of the raw materials and any equipment that is going into your home.

6) Don't work with anyone who isn't prepared to do a complete home evaluation. How can he install the right heating and air conditioning systems for you if he has yet to see your home? He should ask you a number of questions to determine exactly what you need from the new system.

Keeping You Heating And Air Conditioning Systems In Good Working Order

We all know that maintaining your heating and air conditioning systems should keep them working for longer but just how do you go about it? You should engage the services of an expert, such as a contractor who specializes in HVAC systems. So what would you expect him or her to check?

He or she should check all the electrical components of the system to make sure they remain within the code requirements. He may need to tighten the electrical connections in order to keep the system running efficiently.

He should test the operation of the thermostat to make sure it is working. Your home temperature may not be the same as the reading on the thermostat which could cause higher energy bills. He may suggest that you put in a programmable thermostat as in most cases they can save families quite a lot of money. They are not suitable for all heating and air conditioning systems though.

He should clean all the component parts of the system and lubricate where necessary. He should check the air filters, replacing those that need it and giving you instructions on when you next need to make some changes. He may advise you on how best to upgrade your current system or whether it is time to think about installing a totally new system. He should be able to explain what grants or other incentives are available and although he cannot guarantee you will qualify, he should be able to recommend you to someone who can help.

He should check the controls of the system to make sure it is starting and stopping properly. He should measure the airflow in the system as poor quality airflow is usually the main reason why people are unhappy with their heating and air conditioning systems. It may seem like a lot of work but if he is an expert it won't take very long and will keep your system working at optimum levels. If you ever need AC Repair Raleigh NC & Surrounding Areas give us a call.

 

Increase Your Heating and Air Conditioning Systems Life

Whether its hot or cold weather, everyone has heating and air conditioning systems' woes on occasion. Air conditioning systems are not only expensive to purchase, but bad maintenance and negligence can lead to obsolete, dysfunctional systems. Heating and Air Conditioning systems need proper maintenance to keep them running efficiently. Your system requires a professional with expert check-up and maintenances skills to make sure you are in good hands. Call someone who can cater to duct cleaning, cooling, air purification, ac service, fireplace maintenance, and also provide hepa filters to keep your environment clean.

Inefficient heating and air conditioning systems can burn a hole in your pocket if they are not running properly. In that event you have to pay extra for your utility bills.

Some simple things you can do to increase you're heating and cooling systems' life is

Periodically replace filters professionally even when the system is working well. It is crucial you follow the manufacturer's specifications while looking for a replacement. Make sure flowers, plants and shrubs are far away from the indoor unit as Air Conditioners need space to take in air for circulation. Lack of space means, the unit will heat up, use up more energy and give you a higher energy bill while also reducing its life. Do not cover your AC's door unit as they have been designed to handle any weather. For e.g.- Rain washes out the AC. Leave the thermostat fan on as it increases circulation within your home which actually keeps the air cleaner and filtered. In addition, air that is continuously moving will lower the temperature. Ensure your system is checked at regular intervals which is the best way to avoid spiraling bills and damage to the system.Always keep the indoor and outdoor coils clean.

Duct Cleaning is a requisite as ill-maintained or neglected ducts are detrimental to the functioning and life of your heating and cooling machinery. Speaking of which no matter what the size, every commercial and private office or residential entity should get their system checked regularly. The main focus of maintaining, cleaning or servicing the heating and air systems is the removal of nasty indoor pollutants so you have clean air. After all, we cannot do much about the pollution outside but indoor pollution which is mostly attributed to ill-maintenance and dereliction can be avoided. The U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that indoor pollution levels can be 70 times more polluted than the air outside.
Some of the common pollutants include:

mold
pollen
animal dander
smoke
dust

These can be treated with HEPA filters, Media Air Cleaners, Electronic Air Cleaners and of course, regular checks. Whether at home or work make sure you have a safe, healthy, breathing atmosphere.

Most importantly, only adept and experienced maintenance staff should oversee your heating and air conditioning problems. In addition to checking your heating and air conditioning systems, it is equally important to regularly check pumps, ventilators, hepa filters, air filtration systems, humidifiers and ducts. Periodic checkups and system cleaning will lengthen the lifetime of your air conditioning and heating system. Remember that the amount spent on periodic maintenance of heating and air conditioning systems pays for itself by saving you money on your utility bills.