How long can I expect my new system to last?
Most systems have a lifetime expectancy of 10 to 20 years. As your equipment gets older, efficiency gradually decreases. You may notice that it gets noisier, has trouble keeping up in extreme weather and needs repairs more often. When a unit begins to show it’s age, you have two choices. You can repair the system which can be costly or replace it. Because heating and cooling technologies and government regulated efficiencies improve continually, a new system that is more energy-efficient makes sense, especially if your system is 10 or more years old.
Why should I have regular or preventative maintenance on my furnace and air conditioning?
Servicing equipment prolongs the life and lowers energy and repair cost. All manufactures require yearly service to maintain warranty status. The ideal time to service your furnace is in the fall. The best time to service your air conditioning is in the spring.
How often should I replace my filter?
1” Fiberglass filter every 30 days
1” Pleated filter every 60-90 days
4” Pleated filter every 4-6 months
Aprilaire spaceguard filters every 6-12 months
How often do I need to change the batteries in my thermostat?
We recommend replacing the batteries in your thermostat once a year.
How can I reduce the allergens and improve the air quality in my home?
With a high efficiency air cleaner, you can remove up to 99% of the pollen and spores that find their way into the home. There is also a reduction in household dust, dirt, smoke, and other air pollutants. Your indoor air will become cleaner and fresher while reducing the allergens and dust that circulate throughout the house. With a whole house humidifier, you can relieve the irritating discomfort of dry indoor air. The humidifier reduces itchy skin, scratchy throats, static electricity, and damage to your furnishings and woodwork. Since humid air feels warmer than dry air, you do not have to set the thermostat as high to feel the comfort you want. A lower thermostat setting will reduce the costs of your energy bill.
Should I cover my outdoor unit?
Covering your outdoor unit isn’t necessary because they are manufactured to withstand any type of weather. There is an increased chance water and excess moisture can accumulate if unit is covered. Trapped moisture will also affect the electrical wiring, wiring connections, and circuit boards in your outdoor unit. Rain helps clear out debris from your outdoor unit that collects throughout the year. During the winter, small animals seek warm places for shelter against the colder elements. A covered unit is exactly the type of place pests will hide. They will leave droppings and debris that can cause damage to the components in your outdoor unit.
Why is my air conditioner’s refrigerant line covered in ice?
Chances are the indoor unit’s evaporator coil is frozen solid. Turn OFF your AC at the thermostat and turn the fan setting to ON. This will unfreeze the evaporator coil and helps prevent damage to the compressor.
A few things that can cause freezing up;
Dirty filter
Low air flow over the evaporator coil
Refrigerant low
A few things you can check;
Is the filter clean?
Are your supply and return vents open and unobstructed?
If filter is clean and vents are unblocked call us to schedule an appointment today.
Is it okay to run my fan continuously?
When the furnace fan is constantly on, air is continuously cycling throughout the home. This is beneficial because it can reduce cold and warm spots in the house. In addition, it provides extra air filtration which may be helpful if health risks are a concern. Manufacturers also state that it is better for the fan motor to run continuously instead of turning on and off with the furnace.