FAQ

Frequently Asked HVAC Questions

How can we determine if our A/C seems to be running too much?

Most systems should run about 2-3 cycles per hour.
How long should the furnace or A/C run in a given cycle?

Typically 10-15 minutes in mild weather. The closer to the max design temperature in heating (0 degrees) or cooling (90 degrees) the longer that cycle will be.
What maintenance can I do myself on my furnace or air conditioner?

Check your air filter on a monthly basis and change it whenever it's dirty. Flush your condensate drain line, especially in the summer when algae growth is prevalent.
How often should I schedule heating and cooling service for my HVAC system?

We recommend having your heating and cooling system serviced twice in the year to keep it working at maximum efficiency. This is to find and fix small problems before they become major issues. If not, you could find yourself needing service during extreme weather conditions when everyone needs help and the wait for service can be longer than normal.
What should I check or make note of prior to calling for HVAC service?

Check for a dirty filter. Is the power switch on? Is the circuit breaker tripped? Is the thermostat set to heat or cool, is it set at the right temperature?
How many years should I expect to get from a new furnace and air conditioning system?

The life expectancy of most systems is 12-15 years.
Is a heating and cooling system with more capacity always better?

Almost never. The correct size of your HVAC system is based on running a computer-generated load calculation using measurements from your home. If you put in an oversized furnace, it will not run long enough to get to its optimum comfort efficiency. If you put in an oversized A/C unit it will not run long enough to remove the humidity from the home.