Frequently Asked Questions

The life expectancy of an HVAC system will depend on several factors. Some factors include the age of the system, how often it is used, the make and model, and whether or not it’s maintained properly throughout its life. On average, an air conditioner or furnace can last for approximately 15 years, while a heat pump can last for around 16 years.

Ideally, you should change your air filters every one to three months. However, you should also consider how often your HVAC system is used. For instance, if your system is used frequently or you have pets at home, it would be best to change your filters every 30 to 45 days.

ENERGY STAR is a program created by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to help individuals and businesses make purchases that are energy efficient. This program places a small blue and white logo (the ENERGY STAR label) on items that meet superior energy efficiency standards. The label is an easy way for consumers to identify top-quality and high-efficiency products.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. SEER measures the cooling efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps. It is calculated by dividing the cooling output for a typical cooling season by the total electric energy input during the same period. A high SEER rating means greater energy efficiency.

MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. MERV rating is a rating scale that allows consumers to compare the performance of filters more easily. The higher the MERV rating, the more particles, pollutants, and air allergens the filter can remove from the air.

Regular maintenance checks by qualified heating technicians can help ensure your system runs at optimal levels. However, there are a few ways you can determine if your heating system is working efficiently.

For example, an abnormally high heating bill is one telltale sign your system is running at low efficiency. Also, if some rooms in your house are colder than others, you likely have a problem with your heating system.

When purchasing an air conditioner, below are some key considerations you need to keep in mind: warranty, attractiveness, and price. Most manufacturers will offer a 10 to 12-year warranty on all parts. Regardless of your chosen brand, your most important consideration should be the contractor you work with.

It is recommended that you only choose a licensed contractor that uses the best refrigerant procedures and practices so you can save time and money. Remember that even if you have the best AC system in the world, if it’s not installed properly, you can’t expect it to work as efficiently as it should.

When deciding whether to have your HVAC system repaired or replaced, you must ask yourself a few important questions. For starters:

• How old is your system? If your system is over a decade old, it is often wiser to invest in a new system. Higher-efficiency equipment can cut energy costs by as much as 40%.
• What is my current system’s efficiency level?
• What is the overall condition of the system? If the system is still in good condition, having it repaired would be a good idea. However, if the system breaks down often, it would be best to have it replaced.

A new HVAC system will require the installation of refrigerant piping, thermostat, flue piping, insulation, chimney liner, grills, drain pans, evaporator coils, registers, slabs, condensate piping, flue terminations, driers, evaporator coil, and ductwork.

There are many ways you can help increase your system’s efficiency. For starters, saving a preventive maintenance plan and changing your filters regularly can help. Ensuring your thermostat is set at a low temperature during the winter, and a high temperature during the summer can also help.

When the temperature outside is over a hundred degrees, setting the thermostat between 75 - 80 is considered ideal to maximize savings.

During the cold months, set the thermostat to 65 to 68. Fortunately, you can snuggle up in a blanket or add more layers of clothing to stay warm and cozy indoors. While simple, those changes can already make a huge difference and can help save you money in the long run.