FAQs
Q: What does HVAC imply?
A: HVAC represents heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
Q: What type of preventative maintenance do I have to do on my heating and air conditioning system?
A: The solution to HVAC routine maintenance is correct air movement. This implies that everything that limits airflow should be immediately fixed. Things like dust, debris, or dirt should be cleared away. Your air filters should normally be clean for proper circulation. An annual tune-up on your AC should be set up in the early spring and a yearly tune-up on your heating unit should be planned in the fall.
Q: Why do I have to replace my air filter?
A: Keeping your air filter clean is the vital to an excellent working HVAC system. For that reason, it is necessary to change it out when it gets filthy. Your air filter might not look like it does very much but, in truth, it is a key component for the operation of your unit. It keeps your home dust-free while minimizing the risk of you from being subjected to allergens and germs. A dirty filter puts stress on your system’s motor. It makes it run inefficiently and it will not cool or heat your house sufficiently. When it runs inefficiently, then it makes it work harder to do its job. The harder it works, the more it costs you. Don’t forget to check your filters regularly. If it is dirty, then make sure to swap it out for a brand-new one. Regardless of the fact that the kind of filter that you purchase might instruct you to change it out every 90 days, a number of variables will alter how often you ought to swap it out. These variables involve animals and whether or not the environment that you live in is dusty. A highly trained Hillburn HVAC service provider will be able to advise you on what type of filter works best for your type of system.
Q: Should a loud noise coming out of my AC and heater be something that worries me?
A: You should unquestionably do something about a loud sound coming out of your HVAC system. First, you do not want to be a contributor to sound pollution. Despite the fact that your system might be working well, your next-door neighbors will enjoy not needing to hear your unit each time it turns on. There are many variables that contribute to a loud system. They include things like:
- Age
- Make of the unit
- Whether or not the compressor is insulated
Most present-day systems are far more quieter than their earlier comparable versions. That being said, don’t forget to compare makes and models and look at the sound ratings for each. You do not want to install one that is a little louder than another option particularly if it is located right next to your bedroom window.
Q: I have an idea of the hazards of carbon monoxide gas. Is this something I need to be worried about?
A: Carbon monoxide gas is an issue that you should certainly be concerned about. It is advisable to get a carbon monoxide alarm in your house because you will not be able to identify whether there is a leak in your house otherwise. Proper attention and maintenance of your HVAC equipment should prevent CO leaks.
Q: What does IAQ imply?
A: IAQ is a phrase that is used in the trade that means Indoor Air Quality. Although many people have typically heard of outdoor air pollution, indoor air pollution is a problem. This term denotes that the amount of air pollution that is present in a home or even a building. According to the American Lung Association, exposure to pollutants occurs more often inside your home than in an outdoor environment by a notable amount. This is why it is crucial to have an HVAC system that improves IAQ and really aids property owners who struggle with respiratory issues and allergy symptoms.
Q: Should I cover my exterior unit through the winter months?
A: Do not cover your unit. These machines are constructed to stand up to the harshest of winter times. If a circumstance were to happen where someone in your household activates the air conditioner when it is covered, then several problems can develop. Principally, your condenser and its components may be majorly damaged.
Q: I have invested in a brand new furnace and air conditioner. How much time should I expect it to last?
A: When your system is thoroughly taken care of, you can expect your new furnace or air conditioning unit to last for about 15-20 years. Please note that systems become less energy efficient as they get older. This is among the fundamental causes that consumers prefer a replacement. Also, cooling and heating systems do vary and consequently, their lifespans do too. The primary reasons that set for how long a system will last is genuinely proper installation and maintenance. Clearly, a system that is not properly installed or maintained will not last as long as one that is. They also will not perform as efficiently. You can get ideal care for your HVAC system by talking to a Hillburn HVAC service company, like SOS XTREME Comfort®.
Q: I just bought a new heating and cooling unit. Should I have a programmable thermostat put in as well?
A: A programmable thermostat can work wonders on your home heating and air conditioning expenses. Unless you have the memory of an elephant, it turns your thermostat up or down based on your set routine. This means that you don’t have the task of leaving for the day and trying to remember to set the thermostat. Let’s be honest. In the hustle and bustle of life, most people are racing out the door and simply don’t have the time to recall things like that. Your programmable thermostat remembers for you. This saves money on cooling and heating costs by changing the thermostat up or down when you are away. You will not pay to heat or cool an empty house. It also keeps your home at a more comfortable temperature level because you can get out of bed to a warmer house in the winter and in the summer, you can get home from work to a suitably cooled home.
Q: Will a new Hillburn HVAC system decrease my power bills?
A: A new system, specifically when compared with much older systems, are noticeably more energy efficient. It can save you as much as 50% on operating costs. Newer styles have a 13 SEER which is the minimum efficiency standard by law.
Q: My furnace/air conditioner gets the job done even if it is old. Why should I upgrade it?
A: There are a couple of reasons to upgrade your system. In your circumstance, when your system is more than 12 years old, then it does not work as efficiently. This is because systems lose their efficiency as they grow older. This equates into higher power charges given that it has to work harder to keep your home comfortable. A brand-new unit can certainly make an improvement on your power expenses and your home’s comfort levels. By keeping your old unit, you are paying far more each month than you need to be. You can save as high as 50% of your operating expenses. This indicates that you will get your return on your investment quickly. You might not want to buy a new unit but you will be glad that you did when you notice that it pays itself off rapidly and then, you will be able to invest your money on other things outside of home heating and cooling expenses.
Q: I like to landscape my home in the summer. Can I plant near my outdoor unit?
A: Landscaping your lawn is pleasurable and an ideal way to spruce up your outdoor areas. When it comes to your outdoor equipment, you will have to take care. It needs to get enough room to be able to breathe. This implies that you have to allow for 18 inches above and around your unit for suitable air circulation. This will allow it to work as needed to ensure that your home will feel comfortable. If you take the risk of planting too close to it, then you might end up calling for an avoidable repair job.
Q: Can I shut doorways and air vents to rooms that aren’t normally used?
A: No. You should not do this for the reason that a system is specifically constructed to match the ductwork and the comfort requirements of your home. When you do shut doors and air vents, you overwork your system’s blower motor, causing it to work harder. This will make it less efficient since it will cycle more frequently.
