How to Clear an AC Drain

Maintaining Your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning) If it's not kept in shape, even the best HVAC system can cost you a lot of money in preventable repairs. Some maintenance tasks are simple, but for others you’re going to need to call in the pros. You'll probably also need an HVAC contractor’s help more frequently as your system gets older. Here are some tips for keeping your HVAC equipment running smoothly and efficiently. Air-conditioning units in good condition shouldn’t be high maintenance. At the beginning and end of each cooling season, you should clean or replace the filters, vacuum out the unit and lubricate the motor. If the unit is not cooling properly, it’s time to call a technician to check the pressure level of the refrigerant. It’s a good idea to arrange for service calls before the start of heating or cooling season. You'll get better attention before the mad rush is on, and your fellow homeowners are discovering problems with their systems as the season gets underway. Look for a company that designs, installs and services the type of system you have, since full-service companies tend to be up to date on the latest advances in the field. You’ll also want to ask for proof that the company’s liability insurance and workers' compensation policies are in force, and ask for a few references you can call to see how their HVAC units run after being serviced by the company. It’s also a good idea to ask about their policy with regard to emergencies. A good, full-service company will have an emergency number that's staffed 24 hours a day and enough technicians to come to your home when the weather gets extreme and everyone’s having HVAC problems. HVAC Terminology The HVAC industry has developed terms that are meant to make understanding and buying their equipment easier. But, unfortunately, a lot of consumers are still confused. Here’s an explanation of a few basic HVAC terms that may make it easier for you to communicate with your service company. SEER The seasonal energy-efficiency ratio (SEER) rates how many Btu an air-conditioning unit will remove for each watt of electricity consumed. The higher the SEER, the less you spend on operating costs. Federal law mandates a minimum SEER of 13 for all new air-conditioning units. Tonnage An air-conditioning ton equals 12,000 Btu per hour. That means a three-ton air conditioner can remove about 36,000 Btu of heat per hour from your home. AFUE The annual fuel-utilization efficiency estimates how much heat a unit delivers for every dollar spent on fuel. The higher the AFUE, the lower your heating bills. MORE FROM YOUR NEW HOUSE Featured videos:    • YNH Featured Videos   Great DIY Projects from Your New House:    • DIY - Do It Yourself with Your New House   Quick Tips:    • Quick Tips - Great, yet simple ideas for Y...   Gardening and Landscaping:    • Gardening and Landscaping   Adventures in Homebuilding:    • Adventures in Homebuilding   Choosing and Using Tools with Carmen Ciricillo:    • Choosing and Using Tools with Carmen   Factory Tours and Product Testing:    • Did You Know?