How often should I have my system serviced?
It is recommended to have it serviced two times a year, before summer and winter. Having your HVAC equipment serviced bi-annually, including an inspection and tune-up ensures that your equipment is operating at its highest potential. This will in turn, save you money in the long run.
What qualifies equipment for an “Energy Star” endorsement?
Products that are marked with the “Energy Star” logo are significantly more energy efficient than legal standards require.
What are the advantages of investing in a high-efficiency furnace or A/C system?
Although the initial cost of a high-efficiency A/C or furnace is higher, the over all outcomes are well worth it. High-efficiency systems use less overall energy, costs less to operate and usually have longer and more comprehensive warranties. Besides being overall ecologically friendly, high-efficiency systems will pay for themselves many times over.
How do I know if I need a humidifier?
Choosing to have a humidifier depends on each person’s needs and preferences. Having a humidifier will always prove helpful in winter when there is typically so little moisture in the air that people get cracked and dry skin, nose bleeds, static and dust build up etc.
Sometimes additional maintenance procedures are required.
What is a by-pass or flow-through humidifier?
Once installed in the ductwork, dry air is forced across moist evaporator pads, which delivers an ultra-fine mist of much-needed moisture throughout your entire home.
What is a Steam-Based Humidifier?
A steam based humidifier continuously blows water vapor in the form of steam into your home whenever a need for humidity is detected as opposed to being dependant on when your system is running. These units are very efficient because they use less water and less energy than flow through humidifiers. Because steam-based humidifiers produce a lot of moisture it may require your ducts to be cleaned more often.
How often do I need to have my Ductwork cleaned?
There are many variables that go into determining how often ductwork should be cleaned. If your home has gone under any recent remodeling, your ducts should be cleaned as soon as the work has been finished. Otherwise, it is best to consult your heating and cooling specialist.
How often should I change the filters in my system?
The best advice is to check your filters every month, if needed replace them. Your outdoor unit should always be clear of debris. Making sure that your filters are clean you will ensure proper air-flow. Blocked airflow will increase operating costs, so it is important to check your filters regularly. Covering your outdoor unit in the winter is a good idea, however if you choose to do so be sure not to restrict any air flow.
Also keep in mind that plants placed closer than 18 inches from the unit could cause you’re A/C to not operate properly.
How effective are HEPA filter systems?
HEPA filters are effective at removing 99.97% or airborne particles including allergens.
Should I worry about the smell of my furnace when I turn it on for the first time?
This smell is a result of not having used your gas furnace in some time. The smell is that of the settled dust on the heat exchanger getting burned up. If the smell is present for an extended period of time, consult your HVAC specialist.
What is the difference in operating costs between a DC (ECM) motor and and AC motor?
According to General Electric Corporation a DC (ECM) motor can save up to $325 dollars annually.
Should I be worried about carbon monoxide?
CO (carbon monoxide) is a dangerous and poisonous gas that cannot be smelled, seen or tasted. Exposure to this gas can cause symptoms that could be confused with the flu including headaches, nausea, burning eyes dizziness drowsiness as well as Fluttering or throbbing heart beat, Cherry-red lips or an unusually pale complexion. If a person experiences a high level of exposure CO can cause loss of consciousness or even death. CO poison results from the incomplete burning of fuels like charcoal, wood, oil, kerosene, propane or gas. While carbon monoxide detectors can give warning about a CO leak, the best course of action to prevent CO poisoning is to be sure that your fuel burning appliances (i.e. flues, vents and chimneys) are regularly and properly maintained.
If you notice any of the above mentioned signs, call 911 immediately, open windows and exit the home.
What is the difference between scheduling preventative maintenance checks and signing up for Air Conditioning & Heating Maintenance Agreements?
While the maintenance, cleaning and tune up procedures are the same with both services there are a number of benefits that are provided with the Air Conditioner & Heating Maintenance Agreements including:
• Priority Service
• Discounts on parts and labor
• Over all savings
What is the difference between my Limited and Extended Warranty?
A limited warranty covers specific parts and is limited by the terms written in the warranty. Extended warranties are usually purchased in addition to the equipment and cover parts and possibly labor and service call costs.
Why should I zone my house?
Zoning divides your home into separate comfort areas and allows your system to cool or heat only the areas needed. For example, a living room with large windows may stay too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter. A zoning system will send more conditioned air to the living room to make up for the heat gained or lost through the windows. Today’s families have different lifestyles and comfort needs. Whatever your needs, zoning can keep each area of your house at the perfect temperature for you and each family