How often should I change or clean my filters?

Filters should generally be replaced every month when the system is running. Replace filters with the same kind and size as original filter. If your filter is not disposable, follow the manufacturer instructions for cleaning.

Is there any advantage to setting my thermostat fan to "ON" so the fan runs constantly?

Yes, there are a couple. One is that you get constant filtering of the air in your home. The other is that because the air is moving, you have a more even temperature throughout.

Should I cover my outdoor unit in the winter?

Covering the unit is not necessary. Air conditioners are manufactured to withstand all possible climate changes. In fact, rain helps keep your unit clean. Of course, because heat pumps run all year long, they should never be covered.

How close to the outdoor unit should I plant shrubs or flowers?

Manufacturers generally agree that plants should not be closer than 18 inches. Air conditioners need to take in and exhaust air to operate efficiently. If air cannot circulate, the unit could build up heat and require service.

Will anything help control the humidity in my house?

Humidity is a problem in many areas. The best way to control excessive humidity is to have a system that runs longer at lower speeds. Variable speed air handling equipment runs at very low speeds, which keeps the air circulating against the cooling coil and removes much more moisture than conventional systems. At these low speeds, the variable speed motor uses much less electricity than conventional motors.

I need a new outdoor unit, but my indoor unit works fine. What are the advantages of replacing my whole system at the same time?

We recommend that you replace the indoor coil or air handler when replacing the outdoor unit. Both of these components are integral to the closed refrigerant loop and together determine the capacity and efficiency of your system. If you do not replace the indoor unit, there will be no test data available for the new combination to establish the expected capacity or efficiency of your system. Also, the indoor system may be partially blocked by particles that will decrease efficiency, and you may be faced in the near future with replacing the indoor unit after it fails and having to pay to have the closed refrigerant system opened again. It would be expensive and be another opportunity for contamination. You end up paying more. If your whole system is replaced, you will be less likely to need service in the near future.

What size system do I need for my home?

There are many things which will determine the size (capacity) system your home requires. Some of these are: square feet to be cooled, climate, humidity, number of windows, insulation factors, which direction your home faces, heat producing appliances, and even the number of people who will be in the home. We can do an energy analysis on your home and help you decide what your particular needs are for your lifestyle.

How do I find a dealer who will do a good job?

Ask people you know who have had an air conditioning system installed , and if they would recommend them. Check with the Better Business Bureau. Have the dealer come out and give you an estimate--see how they handle their customers. Ask for references--and then check them.

How much will my new air conditioning system cost?

That depends. There are many factors that must be considered. These include:

  - The efficiency of the equipment
  - The size of your home
  - Is the ductwork installed and in good condition?
  - Do you need a thermostat or electronic air cleaner?

In most cases, replacing your whole system, indoor and outdoor components, will result in a more efficient, longer lasting system but will also cost a little more. Please contact us for equipment recommendations and your total investment based on a heat load calculation performed on your home.

What is the difference in a Manufacturer's Limited Warranty and an Extended parts and labor Warranty?

A limited warranty covers specific parts (i.e. compressor, coil, electronics, etc.); therefore, it is limited by the language in the warranty. Extended warranties are generally purchased in addition to the equipment. Extended warranties cover all parts and may also include the labor for the service call. An extended warranty protects you from unexpected and unbudgeted service calls for the duration of the warranty.

I've heard a lot about new refrigerants. Do I need to think about them when buying a system?

We do not advise homeowners to choose home comfort systems based on the refrigerant they use. The Clean Air Act does not allow ANY refrigerants to be vented into the atmosphere. They must be reclaimed, recycled and reused. Units using the current refrigerant, R-22, will always be serviced with R-22. They will not need to be changed to a different refrigerant. The scheduled phase-out of R-22 allows for plenty of refrigerant to be available to service all cooling units and heat pumps that use R-22 for the life of the equipment. We do offer limited lines of high efficiency comfort systems using R-410A refrigerant. Our gradual introduction of these products will allow servicers in the field the opportunity to purchase new recover equipment and service tools, as well as adapt to stricter installation and service techniques, to ensure homeowners continue to receive the comfort and value they have chosen.

As the HVAC industry gradually and confidently transitions to a new refrigerant, we encourage homeowners to maintain their focus on purchasing energy efficient home comfort products that best meet their comfort needs. Purchasing higher efficiency cooling and heating systems and better sealing our homes will not only improve comfort and reduce energy costs, but will also improve our environment.

What do all those rating numbers mean to me?

The federal government requires all air conditioning and heating equipment to be rated as to efficiency. The higher the rating, the more efficient the model.

For cooling, the rating is SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). This rating is based on general design criteria and does not reflect a specific efficiency level for a specific application. SEER ratings are for comparison purposes only so that homeowners will know that they can compare different brands of products with similar efficiency ratings. The rating for the outdoor unit will reference a general efficiency range, such as 12 SEER. The actual efficiency rating for a specific system will depend on the combination of the outdoor unit, the indoor coil, and the size of the system. These ratings are available to your dealer in the Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute’s Energy Guide. A variable speed indoor blower unit will increase the efficiency rating of the system, as well.