FAQs
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General HVAC Questions
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What Does HVAC Stand For?
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning.
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How Often Should I Receive HVAC Maintenance?
Our experts recommend having your HVAC equipment cleaned and serviced at least once every year. Ideally, you will want to have your AC serviced in the Spring and your heater serviced in the Fall.
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How Can I Increase the Efficiency of My HVAC System?
To increase the efficiency of your heater or AC unit, be sure to schedule regular maintenance at least once a year. Regular cleaning and inspections will help you get the most out of your HVAC systems. A programmable thermostat is also helpful since they lessen the energy demands placed on your unit. If your HVAC system is particularly old or worn, an upgrade or replacement may be the best route to a more efficient system.
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How Often Should I Replace My Filters?
Your HVAC filters should be changed at least once every three months. If you suffer from allergies or have pets, you may want to change the filter as often as once a month or every other month.
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When Will I Know It Is Time to Replace My Heater?
If your heater is over 15 years old, it is time for a replacement. If the rooms in your home are heating unevenly or not at all, the unit may need to be replaced.
Other signs include:
- Frequent repairs
- Visible rust
- Persistent humming or buzzing sounds
- Cracks in the unit
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When Will I Know It Is Time to Replace My AC?
Your AC is only meant to last around 10 to 15 years at most when it is well maintained. Age may be an indicator that a replacement is needed, as well as inefficiency. If you have had your AC repaired several times and still feel uncomfortable in your home, you may need to replace the unit entirely. Frequent and expensive repairs that only provide short-term solutions indicate that a new unit is your best option.
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What Usually Goes Wrong With a Furnace?
Furnaces can experience several common issues over time. These include faulty thermostats, clogged or dirty filters, ignition problems, malfunctioning pilot lights, worn-out belts or bearings, and issues with the blower motor or fan.
Additionally, gas furnaces may encounter problems with the gas supply, such as leaks or valve issues, which require immediate attention due to safety concerns. Regular maintenance and timely repairs by professional HVAC technicians can help prevent these problems and ensure your furnace operates efficiently and safely.
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What Is the Most Expensive Repair on a Furnace?Generally, the most costly part to fix on a furnace is a circuit board, draft inducer motor, or blower motor. Of course, this can vary.
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When Should I Replace vs. Repair My Furnace?Consider replacing your furnace if it’s over 15-20 years old, repairs are costly (around 50% of a new unit), energy efficiency is low, or safety is a concern. Older furnaces with frequent breakdowns may benefit from upgrading to a newer, more efficient model, reducing long-term utility expenses. Prioritize safety and energy savings when deciding between repair and replacement.
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What Is the Cost of Checking a Furnace?This cost varies by the HVAC service provider. If you’re interested in getting a quote, contact Comfort Air today. We’d be happy to help you out.
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