FAQs

. How often should filters be cleaned or replaced?
Filters should be replaced/cleaned once per month. Many "high efficiency" air filters have a longer useful life. Most of the electronic & electrostatic filters must be cleaned a minimum of once per month. Allowing a filter to become clogged with dirt will raise the operating costs of the system and can actually cause damage to the compressor.

. When do I know it's time to replace my system?
When the system starts giving more problems than seem cost-effective to fix, particularly when major components such as the gas valve or heat exchanger fail. When faced with major repairs, consider that a new system will eliminate costly repairs and will save money on your monthly power bill because of the increased efficiency. The average life of a gas furnace is 12 years. I have seen units fail in less than 10 Years.  We recommend that any gas furnace over 12 years old only be repaired as a last resort. The newer models are so much more efficient that often they will help pay for themselves with the fuel they save.

. What size system do I need for my home?
There are many things which will determine the size (capacity) system your home requires. Some of these are: square feet to be cooled, local climate, humidity, number of windows, size of windows, type of windows, insulation factors, direction your home faces, heat producing appliances, and even the number of people who will be in the home. There are several different types of analysis that will help determine the proper unit.

. Should my home be humidified?
That depends largely on your personal needs. Humidification is definitely helpful in many homes during a 6-8 week period during the coldest winter weather. In the coldest weather insufficient moisture in the air often is responsible for such assorted problems as stuffy noses, sore throats, more dust than usual, cracks and dried-out joints in wood furniture, and static electricity. A good humidifier can cost $600-$1800. It will be used only during the winter months and you will need to "clean and start" the humidifier in the fall.

. What air conditioner works best with a gas furnace?
Any efficiency air conditioner (or heat pump) will operate with a gas furnace. There is no one type or efficiency that is "better". In most parts of the country the heating system runs more than the air conditioner and is, therefore, the more expensive item to operate. For this reason, We recommend that your choice of a furnace is more important than the air conditioner. You will benefit from purchasing the best, lowest operating cost, gas or oil furnace. If this stretches the budget, then purchase the more standard model air conditioner.

. What is the difference in a Manufacturer's Limited Warranty and an Extended parts and labor Warranty?
A limited warranty covers specific parts (i.e. compressor, coil, electronics, etc.); therefore, it is limited by the language in the warranty. Extended warranties are generally purchased in addition to the equipment. Extended warranties cover all parts and may also include the labor for the service call. An extended warranty protects you for unexpected and unbudgeted service calls for the duration of the warranty. Be aware that no warranty includes maintenance, shipping costs, and related parts (parts not provided by the manufacturer). Most labor warranties do not include labor for diagnostics. Most of the better manufacturer's now require proof that routine maintenance has been performed on the equipment. If a contractor offers a labor or long parts warranty, you should remember that it is only good as long as the dealer is in business.