When Is It Advisable To Contact A Professional For AC Repair?

Many people don't think much about their heating and air conditioning system until something goes wrong. Here's a quick guide on what maintenance you can do yourself and when it's best to call a professional.

DIY HVAC Repairs: Basic Maintenance You Can Handle

When it comes to HVAC repairs, it's generally safer to leave it to the experts. Here's why:

• Furnaces often need more than just a simple fix. Diagnosis is key, and it's best done by a professional.
• HVAC systems can be dangerous to work on without proper knowledge and tools.
• Trying to fix it yourself could void your warranty or even your homeowner's insurance.

However, there are some basic maintenance tasks you can handle on your own, like changing filters and cleaning vents. Just remember, if your HVAC system breaks down, it's usually best to call in a professional technician. Even if the repair seems simple, figuring out the exact problem often requires expert knowledge.

Filter Changes

Every HVAC system, whether it's an oil-fired boiler or a heat pump, has a filter. It's important to keep these filters clean to ensure that the air in your home stays clean and fresh (no need to keep spreading dust around).

Regularly changing your filter is also a simple way to lower your energy bill. When a filter gets dirty and blocked, your HVAC system has to work harder to push air through, which uses more energy to heat or cool your home. According to the Department of Energy, a dirty filter can increase your utility bill by 15%, which can add up to a significant amount over the winter.

Calibrating Your Thermostat for Better Heating

Don't rush to dial your HVAC technician just because your house feels chilly. First, check if your thermostat is calibrated correctly. Over time, it can go a bit wonky, but you can easily fix it.

Grab an inexpensive thermometer and compare its reading with your thermostat's display. If they don't match, follow the simple instructions from your HVAC maker to reset the thermostat. That should do the trick and get your home cozy again.

Keep Your Furnace Running Smoothly

Want to ensure your furnace keeps you cozy all winter long? It's simpler than you might think! If your furnace has a blower motor, giving it a bit of lubrication can do wonders for its efficiency.

Here's how to do it:

1. Turn Everything Off: Before you start, make sure your furnace is switched off completely. Safety first!
2. Take Apart the Motor: Remove the motor carefully and clean the caps. This helps prevent any dust or debris from interfering with its performance.
3. Lubricate the Bearings: Apply 1-3 drops of lubricant to each bearing. This keeps them running smoothly and reduces friction.
4. Put Everything Back Together: Once you're done lubricating, reassemble the motor and any parts you removed.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your furnace running efficiently throughout the winter months. Easy as pie!

Top HVAC Repairs You Should Leave to the Pros

Hey there! When it comes to your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, certain fixes are best left to the experts. Let’s dive into what those are!

Yearly Maintenance

Keeping your HVAC system running smoothly is like giving it a regular check-up at the doctor's office. Just like you visit the doctor for a check-up to catch any health issues early, your HVAC system needs a yearly inspection to catch any potential problems before they become big issues.

Having a professional inspect your HVAC system annually can save you from costly repairs down the road. For example, your furnace might have built-up dirt and debris that can strain its motor, causing it to wear out faster. A technician can clean out this build-up, making the motor's job easier and extending its lifespan.

By getting regular maintenance, you can keep your HVAC system in top condition, ensuring it keeps you comfortable all year round without breaking the bank on repairs.

The AC unit refuses to start

Having trouble getting your AC unit to kick into gear? Don't sweat it; there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue before calling in the pros. Firstly, try giving it a reset and double-checking the circuit breakers. If that doesn't do the trick, it's time to reach out to HVAC repair experts for assistance.

The culprit behind your AC hiccup could be something as minor as a simple reset or a flipped breaker. However, it might also signal a more serious problem like a burned-out compressor, which isn't a DIY fix and requires specialized skills to replace.

Here's the deal: sometimes, fixing your AC can feel like throwing good money after bad. If you're facing major repairs, it might make more financial sense to bite the bullet and invest in a new, energy-efficient unit. Not sure which route to take? Don't worry; a professional can guide you on how to make the most of your HVAC budget.

The oil system requires a reset to start

Having to reset your oil furnace before it starts might seem like a quick fix, but it's often a sign of a bigger issue. When your oil furnace refuses to start, even though everything else seems okay, pushing the reset button can kick it back into gear. It's like giving it a little nudge to get going. While this may seem like a simple solution, it's usually a temporary fix. The real problem that caused the furnace to stall in the first place might still be there, lurking in the background. Think of the reset button as a warning sign. It's telling you that something isn't quite right. Ignoring it could lead to bigger problems down the road, which could end up costing you more money in the long run.

To avoid further issues, it's best to call in a professional to take a look. They can diagnose the problem and fix it before it gets worse. Remember, dealing with the issue early on is not only easier but also cheaper in the long run.

Issues with Combustion

If you notice strange smells from your furnace, excessive smoke from your chimney, or unexpectedly high utility bills, it could indicate a combustion problem. Incomplete combustion often causes these issues:

• Strange smells and smoky chimneys suggest incomplete combustion.
•  High utility bills indicate inefficient conversion of resources to heat, a sign of poor combustion.

These problems require professional HVAC repair. Even experts often recommend upgrading the entire unit. An inspection is the only way to accurately diagnose the issue.

Conclusion

When it comes to maintaining your HVAC system, a blend of DIY upkeep and professional assistance ensures optimal performance and longevity. URBN Home Services offers tailored solutions, from installations to repairs, guaranteeing your home's comfort and efficiency. While tasks like filter changes and thermostat calibration can be managed independently, complex issues like oil system resets and combustion concerns necessitate expert intervention. By prioritizing regular maintenance and seeking professional help when needed, you can keep your HVAC system running smoothly, saving time, money, and ensuring year-round comfort for your home. Contact URBN Home Services today for comprehensive HVAC solutions tailored to your needs.