FAQ

What Is The Average Service Life Of HVAC Equipment?

It depends on the equipment type, brand, quality, BTU, and maintenance. HVAC units range from a split unit to a package unit to a mini-ductless heat pump and so forth. There is no doubt HVAC equipment is expensive. In fact, the most affordable brand costs on average of $1,900. When consumers agree to such a large investment, they expect to get their money’s worth. Regardless of how much you invest in an HVAC unit, you want to get the maximum service life of 20 years. Of course, this is only possible if the unit is maintained in good working condition all the time.

HVAC units are integrated with technologies that generate temperature-controlled warm or cold air. Modern San Diego homes and businesses rely on some type of HVAC unit for heating and cooling. These state-of-the-art systems are designed to offer longevity, but only when properly maintained.

Is It Possible To Save Money By Replacing Only The External Unit Of An HVAC System?

No, we do not recommend replacing only the external (outdoor) unit of an HVAC system over 10 years old. Regardless of how old the HVAC is, we cannot safely approve the replacement on only the interior or external unit. This is a major mistake, a few homeowners had to find out the hard way. If you are going to replace the external unit, it is recommended to replace the internal unit as well.

A split HVAC system, hence the name, is designed with an external condenser unit and an internal evaporator unit. An evaporator unit is integrated with a filter, blower, plenum, evaporator coil, and drain lines. The condenser unit is embedded with a fan, condenser coil, and compressor. The units work together to deliver temperature-control air indoors through flex and metal ducts and registers.

Should I Transition From An HVAC With A Low BTU To An HVAC With A Higher BTU?

No, it is not recommended to increase BTUs unless the home size is increased. The BTU rating depends on several factors – ceiling height and room size, temperature range, and total square footage of the home. Once the BTU rating has been determined, it will remain the same as long as the home size has not been altered.

Contrary to belief, an HVAC unit with a higher BTU rating will have negative consequences for you and your family. When an HVAC system can no longer keep up with the cooling or heating demand, your first thought may be to invest in a new unit with a higher BTU. In other circumstances, this rule could apply, but not here.

It is crucial to avoid HVAC units with a higher BTU rating. If you opt to ignore this suggestion, it will result in a significant increase in your energy bill. The same thing goes for lower BTU ratings. While it may be tempting to make the transition to a unit with a lower BTU rating, doing so would only increase the risk of humidity problems throughout your home.

Is It Important To Choose A Brand Across The Board When Shopping For A New HVAC System?

Yes, sticking with the same brand across the board will definitely prove in your favor. However, Most name-brand HVAC units are integrated with components of varying brands. There are many reasons why HVAC manufacturers opt to acquire components from other manufacturers. The main reason is related to performance. In order to deliver efficiency on all levels, manufacturers acquire components from other manufacturers.

When manufacturers design new HVAC units, they always test for efficiency, capabilities, and performance. To achieve maximum efficiency, durability, performance, quality control, and even distribution. If it is necessary to transition from one brand to another to achieve these capabilities at the maximum level. If it means transitioning from brand to brand to achieve this capability, manufacturers will turn to other brands.

There will come a time, your HVAC unit malfunctions, resulting in the need for replacement. At this point, you will be tasked with the decision to stick with the existing brand or the transitioning to another brand. To achieve the best results, we recommend staying within the same brand if at all possible.

Is It A Good Idea To Transition From A Conventional HVAC Filter To A High-Efficiency Filter?

Yes, transitioning to an HVAC air filter with a high-efficiency rating will improve the performance of your unit. HVAC filters are designed to capture and trap contaminants, preventing them from entering the living space, returning to the HVAC unit, and clogging up the ducts.

A high-efficiency filter will improve the overall efficiency of your HVAC.

How Do I Know When To Replace My HVAC Filter?

All HVAC units – package, split, mini-split ductless, and a heat pump – are integrated with a filtration system that traps and collects contaminants. It depends on the brand, but most HVAC filters need to be replaced at least once a month.

When the filter becomes over-saturated with dirt, dust, and other allergens, it will not perform up to par. Dirty filters have contributed to HVAC units working harder just to keep up, resulting in higher energy bills. Check with the manufacturer to determine the best filter replacement schedule for your HVAC system.

How Often Do HVACs, Furnaces, And Boilers Need To Be Professionally Serviced?

Annually, we believe maintenance is key to the maximum longevity of residential and commercial heating and air conditioning systems. Maintenance provides technicians with an opportunity to inspect, assess, diagnose, and repair their customers’ HVAC units. Early awareness through maintenance can help avoid future malfunctions.

Annual maintenance can also ensure the maximum longevity of your furnace, boiler, AC, or HVAC system.

Are HVAC Service Agreements Important?

Yes, manufacturer’s warranties help protect the consumer’s investment when purchasing a new HVAC unit. Contrary to belief, not all manufacturer’s HVAC warranties are created equal. In fact, some warranties offer extended coverage up to 5 years, while others are limited to 12 months. To get the most out of your service agreement, only consider brands that offer consumers extended service agreements.

How Do HVAC Units Help Improve Ambient Air Quality?

Contaminants and allergens enter the home in various ways – through open doors and windows, clothing and animal fur, shoes, and heating and air conditioning systems. Yes, HVAC systems can be a source of harmful contaminants. How is this possible? Most systems recycle air over and over again, by pulling ambient air into the HVAC and removing the contaminants before releasing it back into the home. During the process, contaminants are being sucked up into the HVAC system. If it were not for the filtration system, the contaminants would be pushed back into the home, where they would be inhaled by the occupants.

HVAC units improve air quality through state-of-the-art filtration systems. Ambient air enters the HVAC through vents, entering the filtration system before being cooled and returned to the home.

Can I Prevent Mold Growth?

When using your HVAC system, humid air will cross over the cooling coils. As a result, the water is going to condensate and drop into a collection tray. From there, it will drain through a drain hose. Unfortunately, problems may occur here. When this happens, there is a risk that mold is going to grow around inside and around your cooling system. Once mold has developed in the collection pan, it can quickly enter the home and spread. There is a risk that you’ll breathe the mold spores into your lungs too. Thankfully, you can take steps to prevent mold from growing in your cooling system.

• It is pertinent to clean the collection pan clean. Using preventative maintenance techniques will help ensure that the drain line stays clean and free of clogs. If the water can flow freely, it’ll be less likely to develop mold.
• You can reduce the risks by installing ultraviolet lights. Using these lights near cooling coils is a good way to eliminate bacteria and mold. Contact us to learn more about the ultraviolet light systems we install.
• Work with a professional to ensure that your ducts remain clean. Using a duct cleaning service is recommended. You’ll also want to stick with a highly efficient filter.

What Is A Duct Cleaning?

Many HVAC companies offer duct cleaning services. Duct cleaning is the process of cleaning the HVAC duct system. We provide duct cleaning services. When working with us, you can rest assured knowing we’re going to clean your ducts, registers, and grilles. Furthermore, we’ll clean your fan motor, housing, air handler housing, heat exchangers, and coils. Duct cleaning can make your system more efficient so it will use less energy.

What Are HSPF, AFUE, And SEER Ratings?

When shopping for a new HVAC system, there is a good chance that you’re going to discover a handful of ratings. For instance, you’ll find that the system has a SEER rating and an HSPF rating. If you’re going to buy the best system for your home, it is wise to learn more about these ratings. First and foremost, you’ll want to learn about the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating or SEER. It is commonly used so you’re going to see it frequently. To save money on your energy bill, you’ll want to choose the highest SEER rating possible. Today, 13 SEER is in the middle of the road. It uses 23% less energy than the older standard 10 SEER units. It is possible to find units that have 20 SEER ratings. For the average consumer, having a higher SEER rating will dramatically increase your energy savings.

Heat pumps are unique because they can heat and cool a home. The unit will have a SEER rating and a Heating Seasonal Performance Factor or HSPF rating. The latter can tell you how efficient the unit is going to be when it is heating the home. With a higher HSPF rating, the heat pump will save more energy while heating the home. Today, it is common to find heat pumps that range from 7.5 to 9.0 in terms of HSPF. Finally, you’ll have to worry about the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency Rating. Today, the minimum AFUE rating in the United States is 80%. We offer a range of units.

For instance, we can install units starting at 80% and reaching as high as 96.6%. We can help you find the highest-efficiency heat pump for your home.

What Can I Do To Reduce My Energy Bill?

Reduce your energy bill by using the tips below.

Cooling

• Install an efficient air conditioner in your home. If you’re currently using a low-efficiency air conditioner, you’ll want to change this as soon as possible. Once you’ve switched to an efficient unit, you’ll save as much as a third on your electricity bill. Are you interested in learning more about the latest high-efficiency air conditioners? If so, call our office. Our technicians can help you find a size that perfectly matches the size of your home. With our help, you won’t have to worry about under or over-cooling your home.
• Increase the temperature of your thermostat. It is a good idea to keep the temperature above 75 degrees. If you reduce the temperature below this by one degree, it is going to add 3 to 5% to your next energy bill. Don’t be afraid to raise the temperature as long as your home remains comfortable.
• Using a ceiling fan is a good idea. Most people know that ceiling fans can spread cool air throughout the home. As a result, it can help keep you cool during the hot months. Make sure that the blades are spinning in a counter-clockwise motion. If it is, the fan will produce gentle airflow and make your home more comfortable.
• You need to make sure that your cooling system is maintained properly each year. It is pertinent to work with a qualified professional. When allowing a professional to properly maintain your system guarantees that it is working efficiently and properly. As a result, you’ll save money on your energy bill.
• Be sure that vents in commonly used rooms are unblocked. If these vents are blocked, the HVAC system will have to work harder to keep the room cool. Unfortunately, this will waste energy and put a lot of unnecessary pressure on your HVAC system. Prevent this from happening by unblocking the vents.
• Finally, make sure that vents in unused rooms have been closed. You’re not going to be sitting in those rooms so they don’t need to be cooled. Close the vent to prevent cold air from entering those rooms.

Heating

• Remember to install a high-efficiency furnace in your home. Using this type of furnace can cut your fuel usage by as much as 50% when compared to older systems. In one year, it will help you save up to 25% of your heating costs. Before you know it, the new high-efficiency furnace will have paid for itself. For the best results, choose a unit with an efficient motor because it’ll save as much as 20 to 50% on energy. Contact us to learn more about these appliances.
• Don’t forget to have your equipment maintained annually. Proper maintenance carried out by a licensed professional will provide major benefits. Properly maintaining the system ensures that it is working as intended. Plus, it is operating at the maximum efficiency level.
• It is smart to begin using a programmable thermostat. You’re not going to be home around the clock. Therefore, you cannot get up and change the temperature when you’re away. You’ll want to use a programmable thermostat that will do it for you. You’ll also want to reduce your thermostat temperature by one degree for 7 hours a day. Doing so can save you as much as 1% on your electricity bill.
• Make sure that the vents in used rooms are unblocked. There is a risk that they’re being obstructed by curtains, furniture, or clothes. If this is the case, your system is going to be wasting energy. Be sure to remove these things so the air can flow freely.
• As for vents in rooms that aren’t used, block them. Close these vents. When you do this, you don’t have to worry about using energy to heat rooms that you’re not going to enter.
• Using ceiling fans is wise. Ceiling fans are versatile so they can keep your home hot during the winter and cold during the summer. Most fans have a switch that allows the user to adjust the airflow. By doing so, you can guarantee that it is going to help cool or warm your home throughout the year.

What Is ENERGY STAR?

You’ve likely heard something about ENERGY STAR labels. The Environmental Protection Agency provides advice and recommendations for choosing energy-efficient appliances. Using this information can help ensure that you get an energy-efficient unit that will save you money. On average, an American home will spend roughly $1,900 each year on energy costs. The EPA’s recommendations focus on getting the correct size and proper installation. If you follow this information, you’ll be able to save energy and money.

In some cases, you’ll save up to 20% on your annual energy costs. ENERGY STAR products are highly recommended. Units that match these  requirements greatly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

What Does A Heat Pump Do?

Heat pumps are great for many homes. They’re very beneficial because they offer heating and cooling. Whether you’re cold or hot, you can guarantee that your heat pump will accommodate your current needs. When shopping for a heat pump, you’ll need to choose one based on its SEER rating and HSPF rating. The SEER rating helps determine the efficiency of the unit’s cooling capabilities. As for the HSPF, it tells you more about its heating performance. Heat pumps are great so many people use them instead of electric heat.

It is wise to combine it with a backup heating source to ensure that your home can be kept warm during extremely cold weather.

What Should I Know About Hybrid Heat Dual Fuel Systems?

When using a conventional HVAC system, you can only save energy and money by using the system less frequently. Alternatively, you can reduce the power. Once you’ve switched to a hybrid heat system, you can save using other methods. With a hybrid system, gas and electricity can be used to heat the home. Plus, it will be able to switch between the two depending on the current conditions. When necessary, it can switch from heat and gas and vice versa. Regardless of the temperature outside, the hybrid system will analyze the conditions and determine which fuel source is best.

Ultimately, the system guarantees that the home will remain cool during the summer and hot during the winter. The primary difference is that you’re going to save money throughout the year. Work with us to create a hybrid heating system for your home. To achieve this goal, we’ll need to pick a natural gas furnace and heat pump unit that match exceptionally well.

What Are The Benefits Of Units With Variable Speed Fans?

A lot of equipment has variable speed fans. Although it might not seem like a big deal, it can be. Since the equipment has variable speed fans, the fans can operate at different levels. When operating at lower levels, the fan will spin slower. It will provide the home with a steady flow of cool or warm air. Although it’ll keep the home comfortable, it will save money and energy. Plus, it can help manage humidity levels and reduce operational noise. However, there is a chance that you’ll need to quickly cool or warm the home.

When this is necessary, you’ll want to use the higher speed. A higher fan speed will help ensure that the system can keep up with the higher demand.

What Is A 2-Stage Heating Or Cooling System?

Using a 2-stage cooling system is recommended in many circumstances. The system will be able to better manage the home’s temperature while temperatures outside are constantly changing. In addition to this, a 2-stage cooling system can provide more energy efficiency and comfort. If you’re looking for the most efficient system, you should look for a 2-stage cooling system. It is hard to beat these systems in terms of energy efficiency. It is possible to set up a 2-stage cooling system by using two compressors. One can be small and the other will be large. In most cases, the small compressor will produce half of what the larger compressor does.

Furthermore, you can create a 2-stage cooling system by using a single-scroll unloading compressor. With this type of compressor, it can reduce its capacity by as much as 66%. Either way, both systems guarantee that the unit can operate at a lower stage when it is not necessary to use the higher stage. Using this type of system will ensure that the consumer can save energy and money. A 2-stage heating system is similar.

It guarantees that the system can adjust its operation depending on the current need. If the temperatures are higher than normal, the 2-stage heating system can use a lower stage and save money. Once again, the heat pump would need a small compressor and a large compressor. The compressor used would depend on the current temperatures. If a large amount of heat is required, a large compressor would be used. You can also use a 2-stage gas furnace.

With this system, a gas valve will manipulate the amount of gas allowed to flow through depending on the current situation.

What Is The Best Temperature To Set My Thermostat?

It is important to use the right temperature for your home. In general, the most recommended cooling temperatures range from 75 to 80 degrees. In terms of heat, you should set it between 68 and 72 degrees. If you want to save money and protect your unit, it is best to use the highest temperature possible during the summer. During the winter, you’ll want to use the lowest setting possible. Don’t overdo it though. Make sure that your home is still going to be comfortable.

By increasing the temperature by one degree during the summer, you can save as much as 10% in energy. If you want to save money and you can handle it, increase the thermostat’s temperature by one degree. Doing so won’t make a big difference in terms of comfort but it will save money.

What Can I Do When My System Doesn’t Work Well In A Few Rooms?

A handful of problems could cause your system not to function properly in certain rooms. For instance, there is a risk that you’ve installed a unit that is too small for your home. Alternatively, you might be using a single system to cool or heat a two-story home. Before we can determine what is happening, we’ll need to perform a thorough examination of the home. When you’re ready to begin, contact us. We’ll perform an analysis of the home to find out why the system isn’t working well in those rooms.

Is The R-22 Refrigerant Being Discontinued?

You’ve likely heard something about R-22 refrigerant. Although it is still around, steps are being taken to remove R-22 from the planet. New laws went into effect in January of 2010 to ensure that this refrigerant would no longer be used in equipment manufactured after that date. For many years, R-22 was the standard. However, later research discovered that it wasn’t safe. It was found to be detrimental to the planet. As a result, new heat pumps and air conditioners will use a more environmentally friendly refrigerant.

The newer environmentally sound refrigerant known as Puron is also called R-410A. Nevertheless, R-22 remains the most commonly used in American homes. The good news is that caps have been put in place to prevent this refrigerant from being purchased in the future. Manufacturers will be required to switch to the safest R-410A refrigerant soon. In 2004, the production of R-22 was reduced by 35%. since then, the reduction has increased significantly. The only issue is that the demand for R-22 remains high.

Therefore, its price is rapidly climbing higher. Individuals relying on R-22 refrigerant will likely need to switch to the new R-410A in the future. It cannot be avoided since R-22 will no longer be in production.

What Can I Do About My Outside AC Unit Being Too Loud?

When your AC unit raises from 72 dB to 78 dB, you’ll notice a stark difference. The four-fold increase will be difficult to ignore. In general, it will take a 10 dB increase to double the volume of the air conditioning unit. For the average individual, it will require an increase of 3 decibels to notice the difference. Thankfully, steps have been taken to produce air conditioning units that operate quietly. If you’re interested in learning more about quiet AC units, contact our office. We’ll happily show you some of the latest, quietest models.

Can Carbon Monoxide Accumulate In A Home?

Unfortunately, carbon monoxide can accumulate in residential dwellings. It is estimated that more than 400 people in the United States die due to unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning each year, and these incidents are not linked to fires. In addition to this, it causes more than 4,000 hospitalization and 20,000 ER visits according to the CDC. Suffice to say, it is pertinent to learn more about carbon monoxide and its sources so you can avoid potential problems. In general, it is created by carbon-based fuels. It is caused when the burning or fuel combustion process is not completed. Then, carbon monoxide is created and released into the air.

Thankfully, residents can protect themselves using carbon monoxide detectors. If someone in your house has been complaining of consistent headaches, it is wise to seek medical treatment. However, it is best to use carbon monoxide detectives. Carbon monoxide is difficult to detect so you’ll want to use detectors to protect everyone in your home.

If you have any other HVAC issues please check out our services.