Frequently Asked Questions
What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?
One of the most common questions about air conditioners is how to choose the right size. An air conditioner that is too big for your space will use too much electricity and make you feel too cold, while a unit that is too small won’t cool your space effectively and may leave you sweating. To determine the appropriate size, we first need to calculate the total square footage of the area you want to cool. Then, we can help you choose an AC unit based on its total BTUs (British Thermal Units).
What Do SEER, MERV, and All Those Air Conditioner and Heater Ratings Mean?
If you’re in the market for a new HVAC system, you’ve probably noticed that all of them come with efficiency ratings. Knowing how to interpret these ratings can help you select a unit that will effectively heat or cool your home while also allowing you to manage your energy expenses. The most common efficiency ratings you’ll encounter on HVAC units are:
SEER: The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating describes how much energy a heat pump uses to meet its cooling capacity. Units are rated on a scale from 8 to 23. The higher the rating, the higher the efficiency. New units must have a SEER of at least 13.
MERV: The Minimum Efficiency Rating Value (MERV) rating describes how efficiently air filters remove particle pollutants from the air. The scale runs from one to 20 with higher ratings, which means better air filtration. Most filters designed for residential use have ratings between 7 and 12.
AFUE: The Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating describes the percentage of a boiler or furnace’s fuel used to create heat. A unit with a rating of 60 AFUE uses 60 percent of its fuel to generate heat but wastes 40 percent of its fuel. Look for AFUE ratings in the high 80s and 90s.
HSPF: The Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) rating describes how efficiently heat pumps use energy to reach their heating capacity. Most units have ratings between 5 and 12, with higher ratings meaning more efficiency.
EER: The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) is calculated according to the same standards as the SEER rating but describes the efficiency of different AC units, including portable air conditioners.
Energy Star: The Energy Star system features numerical rankings from 0 to 100. The higher the ranking, the more efficient the appliance. Some Energy Star ratings also include information about the cost of running a given appliance for a year.
How Do I Know If I Have an Existing Warranty on My Furnace, Air Conditioner, or HVAC System?
To check if your HVAC system is still under warranty, refer to the paperwork that came with it. If you need the paperwork or have moved into a new home with an existing unit, you can find the serial and model numbers and contact All Temp Co., Inc. Our team can help you look up the warranty information for your unit.
When Replacing the Outdoor Unit, Should the Indoor Unit Also Be Replaced?
It is not always necessary to replace your indoor and outdoor HVAC units at the same time, but it is recommended to achieve the highest efficiency. Your indoor unit works best when paired with the outdoor unit it was designed for. If the cost of replacing both units is too high, you have options such as financing, rebates, and incentive programs.
Which Type of System Is Better: Ductless, Heat Pump, or Central Air Conditioning?
When choosing the right HVAC system for your home or business, evaluating your needs carefully is important. A central unit could be a feasible option if your building already has ductwork. However, a heat pump or ductless system might be a better fit if you’re looking for more efficient options that don’t require ductwork. It’s important to keep these system descriptions in mind to choose the best choice for your needs. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.
Ductless systems comprise an outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor air handling units via a refrigerant line. These systems are an excellent option for homeowners who don’t want to install ductwork or are looking for an efficient alternative to a central air system.
Heat pumps can be used for heating and cooling, making them one of the most versatile HVAC devices available on today’s market. Heat pumps are highly efficient and can be integrated with ducted and ductless HVAC systems.
Central air systems were the standard in new construction for many years. If ducts are correctly installed and sealed, these systems can provide efficient, uniform home or business cooling.
How Long Do Air Conditioning Units Last?
The lifespan of your air conditioning unit depends on how well you keep up with its maintenance and service tasks. If you regularly maintain and service it, your unit should last 12 to 15 years. However, its lifespan will also depend on how often you use it and the climate of your living area. Therefore, taking good care of your air conditioning unit is essential to ensure its longevity.
How Can I Improve Air Quality and Circulation in My Home?
Improving indoor air quality by promoting the circulation of clean, filtered air throughout your home is essential. Depending on your specific requirements, you can achieve this by using an air purifier, humidifier, or dehumidifier. A ventilation system can also highly encourage airflow throughout your home. Many ventilation systems come equipped with specialized air filters that can eliminate harmful particles and pollutants from the air. When selecting a filter, look for a high MERV rating, especially if you plan on using a ventilator to purify the air in your home and improve circulation.
What Is the Best Thermostat Setting for My Air Conditioner?
One of homeowners’ most frequently asked questions regarding their air conditioners is whether they can use their thermostats to increase energy efficiency. The answer is yes, you can. Setting your thermostat to 78 degrees during summer and 68 degrees during winter can help you achieve the best results. This way, you can maintain a reasonably cool or warm temperature in your home without wasting energy to create unnecessary cooled or heated air. You can also use an advanced thermostat to generate heating and cooling programs that will help you save energy while keeping you comfortable in your home. If you wish to employ different temperature controls for other rooms in your house, look for thermostats that support zoned systems.
Why Does My Air Conditioner Turn On and Off?
It is typical for your AC unit to switch on and off while being used. If it frequently switches on and off, it could indicate that your AC unit needs service and repair. The first thing you should do is turn off the unit and the breaker controlling it so that you can check the electrical cord. If the cord is in poor condition or your electrical system is outdated, it may affect your AC unit. Check if the condenser coils and air filter are dirty or clogged, and remove any dirt and dust. If the unit switches on and off frequently after taking these steps, you must contact All Temp Co., Inc., to perform AC repairs. Make a repair appointment as soon as possible to prevent expensive repairs.
Why Does My Air Conditioner Leak Water?
It is normal for your air conditioning unit to leak water as it operates. When warm air passes over the refrigerant coils, condensation droplets form on the coils. This condensation then trickles down and runs off the coils as water. Your AC unit should be on a slight, downward slope so the water flows away from your home. If you notice the water flowing into your home, you may need to reposition the unit so it tilts away from your house. If you use a window unit that leaks water, place an absorbent material underneath it, and be sure to wipe off any condensation from your walls frequently.
Why Does My Air Conditioner Keep Freezing Up?
Air conditioner freeze-ups may occur due to several mechanical issues. If you’re unsure about the cause of the problem, it’s important to call All Temp Co., Inc. to inspect and repair the unit. Running the frozen AC can cause significant damage that may require replacement or repair.
Dirty fans and air filters can cause your AC unit to freeze. To fix this, turn off the power to the unit at the breaker box, remove and clean the air filter, and clean the fan. If needed, replace the air filter. After completing these tasks, try running your unit with only the fan on or a moderate heating program if you have a combined heating-cooling unit. If the unit still freezes up, seek assistance.
Dirty evaporator coils, broken blowers or defective blower motors, and low refrigerant levels can also cause air conditioner freeze-ups. These issues require the help of a professional. Handling refrigerants alone can be hazardous, so never attempt to do so.
Do You Provide Freon Replacement?
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, new regulations were introduced to eliminate the use of Freon coolants in commercial and residential appliances. This was because these coolants produce hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) that harm the environment. Whether or not your unit can be serviced with Freon depends on when it was originally built.
According to regulations, Freon must be phased out of appliances by 2020. Any AC unit built before 2020 can be serviced with Freon. However, many manufacturers are already moving away from this refrigerant. If you’re in the market for a new HVAC system, choosing a unit that uses an alternative refrigerant is advisable. This will ensure your unit’s refrigerant is readily available and reasonably priced. As the final Freon phase-out date approaches, this refrigerant will likely become more expensive.
You must refrain from handling Freon or your AC unit’s refrigerants yourself. If improperly handled, these substances can be dangerous to humans, animals, and the environment. In some states, handling these substances without proper licensing is even illegal.
What Are the Benefits of an Air Conditioning Tune Up?
Many homeowners may wonder if regular air conditioner tune-ups are necessary. It’s important to remember that AC units are complex systems and require routine maintenance to function at their best and provide efficient service. During an AC tune-up, a qualified technician will perform crucial maintenance tasks and adjust your unit to optimize its efficiency. Air conditioning tune-ups offer several benefits, including increased energy efficiency, ensuring your unit meets manufacturer standards, early detection of potential mechanical issues to avoid costly repairs, meeting maintenance requirements dictated by your manufacturer’s warranty, increasing the longevity of your AC unit, and protecting the value of your investment.
What Does Duct Cleaning Do?
If you have a central heating and cooling system in your home, it has ductwork that carries warmed or cooled air throughout your home. Over time, pollutants such as dust, dirt, pollen, dander, mold, and mildew tend to accumulate in the ducts, which can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system and cause respiratory issues for people in your household. By hiring a professional duct cleaning service, you can eliminate these problems and enjoy the following benefits:
- Improved air quality by removing pollutants
- Increased efficiency by ensuring that air can flow through ducts with minimal resistance
- Enhanced overall air circulation
- Reduced risk of pollutants, mold, and mildew buildup
It’s important to note that only a professional HVAC technician should handle duct cleaning tasks. If your technician finds a pest infestation in your ductwork, you’ll need to call an exterminator before the cleaning can be completed. If your ducts are prone to mold and mildew growth, your technician may spray a light coating material in the ducts to prevent the growth of these harmful substances.