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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re wondering how to save money on HVAC services, what you can do yourself and when to give an HVAC Technician a call, read our answers below to these common questions.
Check the air filter in your furnace or fan coil every 3 to 4 weeks. A dirty filter will cause excessive strain on your furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump. As a result, we recommend replacing your filter when necessary, or cleaning it if you have reusable types. (If you have a reusable filter, make sure it’s completely dry before you reinstall it.) The pre-filter and collection cells of an electronic air cleaner should be cleaned at least 2 or 3 times per year.
Shopping for bottom-line price is easy, however you should ask yourself if the lowest-priced system will end up costing you more money in the long run with higher operating costs? Will it end up needing replacements sooner? Will it provide the comfort you expect? Comparing the efficiency of different brands of heating and cooling equipment is relatively easy. Although the rating systems are standardized, allowing you to make a fair comparison, there are 3 different rating systems used. Plus, each rating is used for a specific type of product. In other words, all furnaces use the same system, heat pumps use a different system, and so on. They are:
Yes. Here are some simple procedures you can perform before going through the expense of a service call:
Check disconnect switches, including the indoor and outdoor switches if you have a split system. Make sure that circuit breakers are on or that fuses have not blown. Be sure to check for sufficient airflow, and make sure the air filters are clean, and that the supply air and return-air grilles are open and unobstructed.
Check the settings on your thermostat. If you want cooling, make sure the temperature control selector is set below room temperature and the SYSTEM switch is on the COOL or AUTO position. If you want heat, make sure the temperature control selector is set above room temperature and the SYSTEM switch is at HEAT or AUTO. The FAN switch should be set at ON for continuous blower operation, or AUTO if you want the blower to function only while the unit is operating.
In addition to the routine maintenance you perform, your home comfort system should be inspected at least once a year by a properly trained service technician. Doing so can make sure your system operate safely and gives you the best performance at the lowest cost. You may also want to ask us about an economical service contract that covers seasonal inspections for a flat fee.
