Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace my air filter?

Inspect or replace the air filter at least once a month when the system is in constant operation. A dirty air filter reduces the efficiency of your system, causing poor efficiency and possible costly repairs.

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Should I upgrade my existing thermostat to a digital thermostat?

Digital programmable thermostats offer flexible run times to accommodate your personal schedule. Programmable thermostats control your equipment for more efficient operation and less energy consumption.

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On very cold days my heat pump unit blows cold air is this normal?

Yes. This mode is called DEFROST it melts off any ice that may have formed on the outdoor coil. As a defrost cycle is initiated, the reversing valve switches, inducing heat to the outdoor coil. You may hear a switching sound when this occurs. During this period of time. Do not turn the system off while in the defrost mode.

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How do I achieve a comfort temperature without overspending on utility bills?

Avoid frequent thermostat settings. Set it at one desired temperature and leave it there. Don’t set your thermostat too low. As a general rule, a thermostat setting of 76 to 80 degrees will provide a comfortable room temperature with economy in mind.

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During the peak summer afternoon hours will the unit run for extended periods of time?

As the temperature rises outdoors, you should expect your air conditioner to run for longer periods of time. This is normal operation.

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There is ice build up on my pipe and outdoor unit is this normal?

No, ice build up is not normal if your system is freezing you should have it serviced by a trained technician. Here are some possible malfunctions low refrigerant levels, clogged air filter, clogged evaporator coil and blower motor malfunction.

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Some times my circuit breaker trips is this normal.

No, if your breaker trips that indicates that there is a malfunction with the equipment. We recommend having your system serviced by a trained technician.

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When should I have my equipment serviced?

We recommend seasonal check ups for your equipment.
Our technicians are fully trained to insure your equipment is running to is maximum potential.

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What does SEER mean?

SEER is an abbreviation for Season Energy Efficiency Rating and is a measure of how efficient a unit operates. The higher the SEER rating the less energy the system will consume. The minimum government standard SEER rating at this time is 13.

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Why is a matched system so important?

A properly matched system provides just the right amount of heating and cooling you need so you get the most value for your utility dollar. Also, a properly sized matched system enables every component to perform as designed, meaning proper cycle times are maintained, humidity is controlled, and system sound is minimized.

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How large of a system do I need to heat and cool my home?

The capacity that you need is based on the heat load and the square footage of the structure. We recommend a no charge consultation to determine the proper size to accommodate and your home.
This proper sizing of your new equipment will maximize on efficiency and energy consumption.
Over or under sizing equipment can reduce performance and raise utility bills.

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What is Puron?

It is an environmentally friendly refrigerant. That will replace R-22 in January 2010.R-410 A Was invented and patented by Allied Signal (now Honeywell) and Honeywell continues to be the leader in R-410 A capacity and sales, other producers around the word have been licensed to manufacture and sell the product.

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R-410A

R410A is an EPA-approved; environmentally sound refrigerant that helps protect the atmosphere.
As the cost of R22 rises, R410A may also be a more economical choice over the long term.

What is the timeframe for the R-410A switchover?

The Clean Air Act mandates that all HVAC equipment manufacturers cease producing equipment with R-22 refrigerant on January 1, 2010, and chemical manufacturers cease producing R-22 refrigerant on January 22, 2020. Along with prohibiting the production of chemicals deemed harmful to the ozone, such as R-22 refrigerant, the Clean Air Act also mandates that no refrigerant be released into the atmosphere during installation, service or retirement of equipment.

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What if I need to replace a portion of my heating and cooling system?

If a homeowner has an existing outdoor unit that is in need of replacement, it is recommended that the indoor unit be replaced (coil, furnace or air handler) at the same time. The reason for this is so that the system will be properly matched based on the manufacturers approved match-up data. A system that is not properly matched will lose efficiency and be more expensive to operate and maintain. This is especially true for homeowners who have outdoor units that are below the current 13-SEER minimum efficiency standard that went into effect Jan 22, 2006. When purchasing a 13-SEER or higher outdoor unit, it should not be matched with an existing indoor unit that is not rated by the manufacturer to achieve a 13-SEER or higher system efficiency rating.

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If my current system is R-22, can I replace a portion of it with R-410A?

If you purchase an outdoor R-410A unit, you must replace the indoor coil with a properly matched R-410A model. R-22 and R-410A refrigerants cannot be mixed.

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Should I purchase an R-410A system if I need a solution NOW?

While you can continue to legally purchase R-22 systems until supplies run out sometime after 2010, if you need a solution today, it may make more sense in the long run to buy an R-410A system. Your contractor can assist you with reviewing and understanding your best option.

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