Home Heating & Cooling FAQs
Here are answers to some of the questions our customers frequently ask about their home heating and air conditioning systems.
S.E.E.R. stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio; A.F.U.E. stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency; and H.S.P.F. stands for Heating Seasonal Performance Factor. These are the most commonly used terms to describe equipment efficiencies. The higher the number, the better.
Definitely yes. The Clean Air Act of 1990 mandated a complete phase-out of R-22 and in 1996 a production cap was placed on its production. In 2004 production of R-22 will be cut by 25% and the manufacture of R-22 compatible equipment will be prohibited after 2010. Production of R-22 will be banned completely in 2020. The replacement is a much more environmentally friendly chemical, R-410A, also known as Puron.
Are homeowners home during the day or night? Do you change your temperature settings many times during the day or night? Do you have a problem remembering to change your filter? If you have answered "yes" to any of these questions, a programmable thermostat may benefit you.
Better filtration, humidification, and duct cleaning.
Studies have shown that home duct systems should be kept clean to reduce allergens and dust particles in the air stream of your home and prolong the life and efficiency of your equipment.
Yes, but only the top of the unit.
Yes, but it is preferable to have it serviced by a qualified service technician. A certified technician is a professional who has been trained to work with the high and low voltage electrical and extreme pressures found on your system.
1" filter: check or change monthly
1" electrostatic: cleaned monthly
4" media: check quarterly, change as needed
Electronic (E.A.C.): clean bi-monthly
Very important. Servicing prolongs the life, efficiency, and safety of your equipment. All manufacturers require yearly service to maintain warranty status and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) recommends spring and fall inspections.