We all have questions about the heating and cooling system installed in our homes but rarely ask them. Sometimes it is because of a basic hitch we feel when asking them, and sometimes the person answering them uses such jargon that the public feels put off. There are also times when curiosity strikes for no good reason. Therefore, we thought of putting up a post dedicated to the heating and air conditioning FAQ today. These are some questions knowing whose answers will be to your advantage.
Heating And Air Conditioning FAQ’s
Ques – How often should one change the air filter?
Ans – Typically, you should change the dirty air filter with a new one every month. Nevertheless, if you feel that the air filter is barely dirty at the end of the month, you can extend the frequency of switching it out to once a quarter. In residences where the furry friends (dogs, cats, etc.) are a part of the family, you may want to consider changing the air filter more often than once a quarter.
Ques – Does EPA require homes to get the ductwork cleaned professionally?
Ans – The EPA or the Environment Protection Agency does not recommend or propose regular ductwork cleaning. According to them, the ducts should be cleaned only when required or deemed necessary. Professional cleaning of ductwork is advised because it is impossible to clean the complete ductwork with the standard cleaning equipment found in a home. Moreover, ducts are fragile, so they require careful handling. A professional ductwork cleaning company will do a more thorough job cleaning the ducts without causing them any harm.
Ques – When replacing the outdoor unit, is it necessary to replace the indoor unit?
Ans – The standard response to this question would be affirmative. There is a valid reason behind it. The outdoor unit and the indoor unit are manufactured as a matched set. If you decide to mix and match, it will reduce the efficiency of the heating and cooling system. Secondly, one unit older (almost at the end of its life) and one unit new is bound to put excessive strain on the old unit. As a result, neither unit will function properly and cause frequent problems. Getting the issues sorted will mean more expense, which makes no sense when, as it is, you have to replace the old unit as well. You might make a substantive investment and start on the right foot with a fully matched new system. This way, neither unit will be compromised.
Ques – Why is getting R-22 becoming a problem? Is it necessary to upgrade to R410A?
Ans – As per the Montreal Protocol, there is no new production of the refrigerant R-22 or Freon. If your system runs on it and needs a top-up, you will have to rely only on the reclaimed supply. Since it is limited, the price you pay will be through the roof. As it is if your HVAC system uses R-22, it means that your unit is already very old. You must be facing the pain of increasingly expensive repairs and the difficulty of procuring spares. You might as well upgrade to a new system and do away with the complete hassle. New systems run on R410A, which is a more eco-friendly refrigerant, and you will also get a reliable system with good efficiency.
Ques – When should one schedule the preventive maintenance of their HVAC system?
Ans – Every HVAC system requires semi-annual maintenance, one for the AC and the next for the furnace. Ideally, schedule the servicing of your AC in spring, just before you switch it on for the first time for the season. Schedule the furnace maintenance for autumn, again, just before using it for the first time for warming the house for the coming winters.
Ques – Can skipped maintenance nullify the warranty on my new HVAC system?
Ans – A fundamental requirement of manufacturer warranty on new HVAC systems is that the owner will ensure regular and timely maintenance of the unit by professional technicians. Failing to do so will nullify the warranty on your spanking new HVAC system. So you will be forced to pay from your pocket whenever there is an issue covered by the warranty. The manufacturer has no liability whatsoever because you broke the contract terms.
Ques – My home has ductwork. Should I replace my old HVAC system with a ducted system only?
Ans – If your ductwork condition is poor and requires immediate replacement, which is not an option for you, you may want to opt for a ductless system. If your ducts are well maintained, in that case, you may want to do a cost-benefit analysis between a ducted and ductless system to make the best choice. There is no compulsion that a ducted system has to be replaced by a ducted system.
Ques – On the thermostat, should the fan setting be “On” or “Auto”?
Ans – If you want to keep your home’s cooling costs low, the “Auto” setting is more suitable. On the other hand, if you want a consistent temperature with uninterrupted airflow, set the fan setting to “On.”
Ques – Can I increase the energy efficiency of my HVAC system?
Ans – The SEER value decides the efficiency of the HVAC system under optimal conditions. If you desire to make your unit more efficient than that, sadly, it can’t be done. But one bare fact remains that rarely do we ever present our HVAC system an opportunity to work optimally. So what we essentially receive is not its actual efficiency. Here are a few pointers that will help you achieve more out of your heating and cooling system:
1. Get a programmable thermostat, if possible a smart one, and learn how to use it.
2. Ensure all the vents and registers are open and have no obstructions.
3. Stick to the recommended settings for each season. If necessary, install a ceiling fan that works both clockwise and anti-clockwise.
If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to contact the air experts at Aztil Air Conditioning. To schedule the maintenance of your HVAC system, give us a call at +1-888-729-8452.
