Common HVAC Questions, Answered

Your heating and cooling systems work incredibly hard to perform their functions. The constant stopping, starting and general operation can wear down any machine. Proper care and maintenance help keep these systems in optimum condition and ward off malfunction. Scheduling regular maintenance maximizes the life of your heating and cooling units and guards against common equipment failures. Preventive inspections performed in spring for your A/C and fall for your heater can uncover leaks, rust, rot, soot, frayed wires, and corroded electrical contacts — ensuring maximum efficiency and preventing bigger problems down the road.

All heating and cooling equipment requires an annual professional tuneup. Inspections on boilers and furnaces should include ductwork, pipes, dampers, valves, the chimney, registers, radiators, pumps, blowers, fuel lines, and the oil tank. Heat pump and air conditioning inspections should also include an examination of the fan, compressor, indoor coils, outdoor coils, and refrigerant lines.

Programmable thermostats are more accurate and efficient than older mercury-based thermostats. You can program settings in advance to control the temperature at different times of day — no more remembering to adjust it manually. Scheduling a higher or lower temperature around your weekday work hours can save money on energy bills without sacrificing comfort.

Yes. Heating and cooling equipment that runs loud intensifies sound pollution in your home, and the sound rating of a system can meaningfully affect comfort — especially if the unit sits near bedrooms or living rooms. Nearly all modern systems run quieter than older units, but odd or unusually loud noises can signal a developing problem. If you notice new or strange sounds from your system, call a technician for an inspection before it turns into a bigger repair.