FAQs
Q: What does HVAC mean?
A: HVAC is an acronym that stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
Q: What type of preventative maintenance do I want to do on my heating and cooling system?
A: As a homeowner , taking care of your system is truly not brain surgery. There are a handful of aspects that you ought to always remember. The main aspect to always remember is adequate circulation. This implies that you need to examine your air filters often and replace them out when they are dirty. It also indicates that you need to make sure that your air vents aren’t blocked out by items such as household furniture. In fact, don’t even close up air vents to areas that are less regularly used. You are making your system run more than need be, using more power to do so, and wasting money. Lastly, don’t forget to schedule an annual tune-up on your AC system. This really should be done in the spring season. Arrange for an annual tune-up on your heater in the fall season.
Q: How do I figure out when to remove and replace my air filter?
A: We recommend that you replace your air filter on a monthly basis. That being said, it is ideal to replace your filters as frequently as needed to make sure that your system runs with most favorable efficiency. Look at them more often if you live in a dusty environment or have pets. If your filter seems dirty, then make sure to substitute it right away.
Q: Should a loud noise coming out of my AC and heater be something that concerns me?
A: A noisy cooling and heating system can be bothersome to you and your next-door neighbors. Even though your unit seems to be performing decently, no one wishes to know when your system is kicking on or off. This is specifically the case when your unit is in close proximity to a bedroom window. Also, noise pollution is a major concern and a loud HVAC system definitely contributes to it. The reason that your system is so noisy is usually because of the following:
- Your unit is older
- The kind of unit you have
- Your compressor-insulted or not
Fortunately, new systems have sound ratings that you can compare. Most model units are constructed to be quieter than their earlier counterparts. Sound ratings will direct you as to which model might work ideally for you. A quieter model will be preferable if there is a bedroom nearby.
Q: Should I cover up my outside unit over the winter months?
A: Your outside unit is designed to handle the harshest of winters months so it is not suggested to cover your unit. If an individual were to unintentionally turn on the air conditioner when your machine is covered, it can ruin the condenser and all of its components.
Q: How can I make my HVAC system work a bit more efficiently without having to substitute it?
A: When you don’t want to replace your system, you ought to properly maintain it. This means that you, as the property owner, must do some preventative upkeep on your system as well as schedule a tune-up every 6 months. It is a good idea to arrange one in the spring just before the hot weather hits and organize one in the fall, just before the cold weather rolls in. By carrying this out, you can greatly improve the energy efficiency of your HVAC system by roughly 5% -10%. This makes a large difference on your power bill. Another technique to keep your unit energy efficient is by just changing out dirty air filters. Be sure that you don’t choose the least expensive filters. They often get filthy quite frequently which has an effect on the amount of power your system uses. When you pay for premium quality filters, it keeps your system clean which means into big financial benefits considering that it will not have to perform as hard. Make sure not to shut the registers or air vents in your home. The key to making your system run adequately is suitable air circulation. Do not forget about your outside unit. Don’t forget to allow adequate space around your exterior unit for it to ‘breathe’.
Q: I should get a new heating/cooling system. How do I pick the right one for me?
A: The number one feature that you should think about is overall size. The machine needs to be the best size for your house. Many homeowners make the mistake of getting units that are too large, thinking that the system will warm up or cool down their home more rapidly. Other property owners purchase units that are too little, believing that their units will use less power and consequently, save money. This is a big no-no. Your unit has to match the size of your house so that it can properly heat or cool it. A Ridgewood, New Jersey HVAC professional, like SOS XTREME Comfort®, has the knowledge to match your unit. Also, be sure to discuss operating costs of your system with your contractor. You want a system that, ultimately, pays you back. Be sure to invest in a system that, on a monthly basis, offsets the cost of the unit with the help of your utility bill.
Q: I just invested in a new heating and air conditioning unit. Should I have a programmable thermostat installed also?
A: House owners are becoming more attentive of the energy use in their homes. An uncomplicated device, such as a programmable thermostat, is letting house owners become more familiar with their house cooling and heating costs. It enables people to adjust the temperature of their home based on their necessities and agendas. This saves them a considerable amount of money simply because they don’t need to try to remember to turn the thermostat up or down before going out of the house or right before going to sleep. In the hustle and bustle of life, numerous people neglect to do this. For instance, you can adjust your thermostat to warm up your property before you get out of bed in the morning instead of waiting for you to get out of bed to do it. You can also do this just before you get home from work. It is quite a convenient, economical device.
Q: My furnace/air conditioner functions regardless of the fact that it is outdated. Why should I replace it?
A: There are a few reasons to replace your system. In your circumstance, when your system is much more than 12 years old, then it does not function as efficiently. This is due to the fact that systems lose their efficiency as they age. This translates into higher electricity invoices due to the fact that it has to work harder to keep your home comfortable. A new unit can most certainly make an improvement on your energy statements and your home’s comfort levels. By keeping your older unit, you are paying more every month than you should be. You can save as much as 50% of your operating expenses. This means that you will get your return on your investment quickly. You might not really want to purchase a new unit but you will be glad that you did when you see that it pays itself off quickly and then, you will be able to spend your money on other things outside of home cooling and heating costs.
Q: I want to landscape my lawn in the spring season. Can I plant near my exterior unit?
A: You can grow plants around your unit but we recommend that you leave 18 inches all around your unit unobstructed from any plants. This allows for suitable air circulation which your unit needs to have just to work without problems. Alternatively, your machine could overheat which can result in an unwanted service phone call.
Q: The temperature inside of my home is fine but my unit’s fan seems to be working all of the time. What should I do?
A: Check your thermostat. Property owners accidentally set it to the on position rather than the auto setting. The on position causes your fan to blow non-stop which takes more electricity.
Q: Can I close off doorways and vents to rooms that aren’t ordinarily used?
A: Do not shut rooms or vents. Though it may seem like common sense, it is a waste of your finances. Your unit is matched to the duct system in your house. When you shut off vents, it creates a lot of pressure and ramps up your blower, the heart of your HVAC system. This makes it less efficient and raises your home power expenses.
