HVAC FAQs

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It’s a system used to regulate the temperature, humidity, and air quality in indoor spaces.

An air conditioner works by removing heat and moisture from the interior of an occupied space to improve the comfort of occupants.

ENERGY STAR is a program run by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Energy that promotes energy efficiency.

The “best” manufacturer can vary based on your specific needs and budget. Some well-known manufacturers include American Standard, Carrier, Trane, and Lennox

Air conditioning can improve comfort levels, reduce humidity, improve air quality, and can even improve sleep.

The average lifespan of an HVAC system is between 15-20 years, but this can vary based on maintenance, usage, and the quality of the installation.

A heat pump is a device that transfers heat energy from a source of heat to what is called a thermal reservoir.

An air handler, or air handling unit, is a device used to regulate and circulate air as part of an HVAC system.

BTU stands for British Thermal Unit, which is a unit of heat energy in the Imperial system.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, which measures the efficiency of air conditioners.

If your heating system is working efficiently, it should maintain a consistent temperature, have good air quality, and your energy bills should not be unusually high.

This depends on the age of your system, the cost of repairs, and the potential energy savings of a new system.

Installing a new system involves choosing the right equipment, properly sizing the system, and professional installation to ensure efficiency and longevity.

A ductless mini split system consists of an outdoor compressor/condenser and an indoor air-handling unit.

A ductless split system works by delivering air directly into different zones in your home, instead of routing it through ducts first.

While it’s possible, it’s recommended to have a professional install it to ensure it’s done correctly and safely.

Ductless mini splits are generally very quiet, much quieter than traditional HVAC systems.

This could be due to an overloading circuit, short circuit, or ground fault. A professional can help diagnose and fix the issue

To reset a tripped breaker, you typically need to switch it to the “off” position first, then switch it back to “on”.

Some minor flickering can be normal when large appliances start up, but if it’s excessive, you may want to consult with an electrician.

A chirping smoke detector usually indicates a low battery. Try replacing the battery to see if that resolves the issue.

Furnace ratings refer to the efficiency of the furnace, typically measured in AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency).

Two-stage heating means the furnace has two levels of heat output: high for cold winter days and low for milder days. Since the low setting is adequate to meet household heating demands 80% of the time, a two-stage unit runs for longer periods and provides more even heat distribution.

You should consider replacing your heating system if it’s more than 10-15 years old, requires frequent repairs, has inconsistent temperatures, or results in higher energy bills.

The best heating system for your home depends on factors like whether you need to heat your entire home or just need supplemental heating, the climate region you live in, whether your home already has ductwork for a furnace or pipes for a boiler, and your budget.

A new furnace may operate differently than an older one due to advancements in technology. Modern furnaces are designed to provide more even and efficient heating than past furnaces.

Heating systems should be serviced at least once a year, preferably in the fall before the cold season.

A furnace filter prevents impurities such as dust, hair, and debris from entering the furnace and the blower fan. It keeps your home’s air clean and helps extend the life of your furnace.

You can find the size of your furnace filter by checking the old air filter or measuring the air register or air filter slot. You can also try searching online if you know the model number of your furnace.

No, you don’t have to use a filter that is manufactured by the same company that makes your furnace.

High-efficiency filters are designed to trap small particles from the air, improving indoor air quality. However, a filter with a high MERV rating can decrease your furnace’s efficiency by making it harder for air to flow through.

The general rule is to change a furnace filter at least once every 90 days depending on your lifestyle and the type of furnace filter you choose.

A thermostat is a device that automatically regulates temperature, or activates a device when the temperature reaches a certain point.

There are several types of thermostats including non-programmable thermostats, programmable thermostats, smart thermostats, and learning thermostats.

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) refers to the air quality within and around buildings and structures, especially as it relates to the health and comfort of building occupants.

UV air purifiers use ultraviolet light to kill airborne pathogens such as bacteria and viruses, while air filtration systems use filters to trap dust and other particles from the air.

Air purification is the process of removing contaminants from the air in a room to improve indoor air quality.

Some UV air purifiers can produce increased levels of ozone which can be harmful if inhaled in large amounts.

UV light can be harmful if exposed directly to skin or eyes.

The maintenance required for a UV air purifier typically involves replacing the UV-C light bulb annually and cleaning the unit as per manufacturer’s instructions.

MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating is a measure of an air filter’s efficiency on a scale from 1-20. The higher the MERV rating, the better it filters small particles

MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value.

The life expectancy of an air filter depends on its type and usage conditions but generally ranges from 30 days for basic fiberglass filters up to 6-12 months for pleated filters.

Filters should be changed regularly based on their type and usage conditions but generally every 30-90 days.

Changing an air filter typically involves turning off your HVAC system, removing the old filter, inserting the new one in the correct orientation, and turning your system back on.

Regularly changing your air filter ensures optimal HVAC system performance, maintains good indoor air quality, and prolongs your system’s lifespan.

If you have a reusable filter, it should be cleaned at least once every 30 days.

Regular maintenance on your home comfort system is important as it ensures optimal performance, prolongs its lifespan, prevents unexpected breakdowns, and maintains good indoor air quality.

Warranty coverage varies by manufacturer but typically covers defects in materials or workmanship for a specified period after purchase.