Find answers to common questions about HVAC services, finding contractors, and getting the best heating and cooling solutions for your needs.
How can I tell if my furnace filter needs changing?
You should change your furnace filter regularly, typically every 1-3 months, or more often if you have pets or allergies. Here are some signs your filter needs changing:
Reduced Airflow: Noticeably weaker airflow from your vents.
Dusty Vents: Dust accumulation around your vents.
Increased Dust: More dust than usual in your home.
Allergies or Respiratory Issues: Worsening allergy symptoms or respiratory problems.
Higher Energy Bills: Your furnace becomes less efficient.
Overheating: The system overheats due to restricted airflow.
Check your filter monthly and change it as needed to keep your system running efficiently.
What should I ask an HVAC technician during a service call?
When an HVAC technician comes for a service visit, ask these important questions:
What is the source of the problem? Get a clear explanation of the issue and what caused it.
What are my repair options? Discuss different repair solutions, if applicable, and their associated costs.
Are there any preventative measures I can take? Find out if there are steps you can take to prevent future problems.
Do you recommend a repair or replacement? If repairs are extensive or the system is old, consider replacement.
What are the warranties on parts and labor? Understand the warranties before agreeing to any repairs.
Do you have any customer reviews or testimonials I can check? Reputable HVAC technicians are often happy to provide references or direct you to customer reviews.
Asking these questions can help you make an informed decision and feel confident in the HVAC technician's expertise and recommendations.
Should I repair or replace my old furnace?
Deciding between repairing or replacing your furnace depends on
Age: Furnaces typically last 15-20 years. If yours is significantly older, replacement is usually the better overall choice.
Frequency and Cost of Repairs: If you've been having repeated repairs, replacing the furnace might be more cost-effective in the long run.
Energy Efficiency: Newer furnaces are significantly more energy-efficient, which can lead to lower energy bills.
Safety Concerns: Older furnaces might have safety issues, such as carbon monoxide leaks. A new furnace offers enhanced safety features.
Consult with a trusted HVAC professional to assess your furnace and get recommendations.
What is the difference between an AC unit and a heat pump?
While both air conditioners and heat pumps provide cooling, they differ in how they generate heat. An AC unit cools your home by extracting heat and transferring it outside. It uses a separate furnace or heating system for heating in colder months. A heat pump, however, can both cool and heat. In cooling mode, it functions like an AC, extracting heat from indoor air and releasing it outdoors. In heating mode, it reverses this process, extracting heat from the outside air (even in cold temperatures) and transferring it inside. This makes heat pumps more energy-efficient for heating than traditional electric resistance heating, especially in mild to moderately cold climates.
How can I tell if my furnace filter needs changing?
You should change your furnace filter regularly, typically every 1-3 months, or more often if you have pets or allergies. Here are some signs your filter needs changing:
Reduced Airflow: Noticeably weaker airflow from your vents.
Dusty Vents: Dust accumulation around your vents.
Increased Dust: More dust than usual in your home.
Allergies or Respiratory Issues: Worsening allergy symptoms or respiratory problems.
Higher Energy Bills: Your furnace becomes less efficient.
Overheating: The system overheats due to restricted airflow.
Check your filter monthly and change it as needed to keep your system running efficiently.
What should I ask an HVAC technician during a service call?
When an HVAC technician comes for a service visit, ask these important questions:
What is the source of the problem? Get a clear explanation of the issue and what caused it.
What are my repair options? Discuss different repair solutions, if applicable, and their associated costs.
Are there any preventative measures I can take? Find out if there are steps you can take to prevent future problems.
Do you recommend a repair or replacement? If repairs are extensive or the system is old, consider replacement.
What are the warranties on parts and labor? Understand the warranties before agreeing to any repairs.
Do you have any customer reviews or testimonials I can check? Reputable HVAC technicians are often happy to provide references or direct you to customer reviews.
Asking these questions can help you make an informed decision and feel confident in the HVAC technician's expertise and recommendations.
Should I repair or replace my old furnace?
Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your furnace:
Age: Furnaces typically last 15-20 years. If yours is significantly older, replacement is often the better long-term choice.
Frequency and Cost of Repairs: If you've been having repeated repairs, replacing the furnace might be more cost-effective in the long run.
Energy Efficiency: Newer furnaces are significantly more energy-efficient, which can lead to lower energy bills.
Safety Concerns: Older furnaces might have safety issues, such as carbon monoxide leaks. A new furnace offers enhanced safety features.
Consult with a reputable HVAC professional to assess your furnace and get recommendations.
What is the difference between an AC unit and a heat pump?
While both air conditioners and heat pumps provide cooling, they differ in how they generate heat. An AC unit cools your home by extracting heat and transferring it outside. It uses a separate furnace or heating system for heating in colder months. A heat pump, however, can both cool and heat. In cooling mode, it functions like an AC, extracting heat from indoor air and releasing it outdoors. In heating mode, it reverses this process, extracting heat from the outside air (even in cold temperatures) and transferring it inside. This makes heat pumps more energy-efficient for heating than traditional electric resistance heating, especially in mild to moderately cold climates.