Frequently
Asked
Questions
Q: What is the average life of a central A/C system?
A: In our years of experience we have found that the average life of a A/C system is 10-12 years, with proper maintenance. With out proper maintenance it could be considerably lower.
Q: Why are my electric bills going up? A: There are many factors involved in high power bills. Your A/C system being one. Are you changing your filter regularly? Have you had your system maintained? A clogged filter and/or dirty evaporator coil will raise your electrical bill significantly. An old low SEER A/C system can also be a problem.
Q: Should I get a Tune-Up on my A/C, and how often should it be done? A: Yes. Much like an oil change on your car, regular maintenace on your A/C system is impairative. Most manufacturers recommend every 6 months (most require this as not to void their warranty).
Q: Does my A/C system need Freon added? A: NO!! Your A/C system should be a sealed system that doesn't lose freon. If it needs freon it has a leak, that leak needs to be repaired as soon as possible. However, your system could also have a leak because it was not properly charged.
Q: Are all filters the same? A: NO! There are many types of filters. The higher the Merv rating the smaller the particles and air borne contaminants are that pass through the filter. If you have a higher quality filter, you will breathe higher quality air.
Q: Can I check anything before calling for service? A: Yes. Here are a few things you can check yourself first:
-Check all of your breakers & disconnects inside and outside.
-Check your thermostat. Is it on cool? or heat? Is the fan set to on? or auto? Is the set temperature above the room temperature? or below?
-Check your air filter. Is it clean?
Q: Should my fan be set to Auto? or On?
A: Although auto is common practice there are some advantages to the fan being set in the "on" position. One being constant filtering of your indoor air. Another being constant air movement will give a more uniform temperature throughout the house.
Q: What is S.E.E.R.?
A: S.E.E.R stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. The higher the SEET the less pwer it consumes, the lower you electric bill will be. The average SEER size 10 years ago was around 8 SEER. Today, the average is now up to 13 SEER and range as high as 21 SEER. Going from 8 to 13 SEER could save you around 38%.
Q: Should I replace both A/H (inside unit) and C/U (outside unit) when investing in new A/C equipment?
A: Yes. Although your house may still cool if replacing one conponent you will lose efficiency. Manufacturers pair up equipment to maximize efficiency and capacity. Studies have shown mix matching components not only lowered capacity (amount of cooling ability) but in some cases also lowered the efficiency below the old system (your power bill will go up).
Q: Can a programmable Thermostat save me money?
A: Yes. By running your A/C while you are home and not while your away it will run less and have less wear and tear on your equipment.
If you have a question that was not addressed on this site, please feel free to follow the "contact us" link and write your question and information in the space provided. Or, you may contact our office Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm (772) 873-0556