- What size HVAC unit do I need?
- How often do I need to change my HVAC air filter?
- Why should I replace my R-22 outdoor unit with an R410A?
- Should I cover my AC unit in the fall and winter?
- Why should I use a humidifier in my home?
- Should I have my air ducts cleaned professionally?
- What is better – gas, oil or electric HVAC products?
- Will air conditioning remove humidity?
- Which air conditioning units are best?
- How long can you run your AC before it freezes?
- At what temperature will an AC unit freeze?
- How long should a furnace run and how often should the furnace cycle?
- How long does it take for a furnace to heat up?
- How long should a house retain heat?
- What is considered short cycling for a furnace?
What size HVAC unit do I need?
It is not always easy to know what size HVAC unit you should buy. A best practice is to look at the unit’s BTU rating and choose one that has a rating of 20 per square foot of the home. That means that for a 2,000 square foot home, you would want an HVAC system with a minimum BTU rating of 40,000, and should also not exceed more than 15% higher than that amount. By following that guideline you will get the best unit to evenly heat and cool your home.
How often do I need to change my HVAC air filter?
The most common question we get is how often you should change your air filter in your air conditioning unit. First off – change at least two times per year. If your filter is very dirty – this can damage your HVAC unit and cost you more money in maintenance, repair, or replacement. Therefore depending on your home and the type of filter you are using, you may need to change the filter more frequently.
Why should I replace my R-22 outdoor unit with an R410A?
R-22 refrigerant (commonly known as freon) has been in the process of being phased out for R410A because it is more environmentally friendly. Therefore R-22 refrigerant is now much more expensive. An AC system that uses the new R410A refrigerant is more efficient and has more fluid temperature-changing capabilities, and in turn this allows the system to cool or to heat the home quicker and more efficiently – which will save you more money.
Should I cover my AC unit in the fall and winter?
Many people wonder if they should cover their AC system when temperatures start to change. Those that choose to cover their AC system during the fall or winter seasons can help to protect their system from debris like seeds or leaves that may block the airflow that goes to the system. HVAC systems are made with the ability to withstand weather like snow or rain but if you choose to cover it ensure that you are using a breathable fabric that will not allow moisture to buildup within the unit.
Why should I use a humidifier in my home?
A whole-home humidifier can have many benefits. Humidification is the home can help with allergies as well as with sinus problems – the humidifier keeps moisture in the air and prevents your sinuses from drying up and becoming irritated. Humidifiers can also help with better sleep, as well as healthy skin and extending the life of your home’s furniture. An HVAC unit controls a home’s temperature but a home humidifier can help with regulating the humidity of the air within your home.
Should I have my air ducts cleaned professionally?
There are some benefits to professional air duct cleaning. Duct cleaning can help to unclog excessive amounts of dust particles that would seep into your home over time. It can help to improve your home’s air quality by reducing the amount of particles and contaminents, and some believe that duct cleaning can help with the efficiency of your HVAC unit.
What is better – gas, oil or electric HVAC products?
It depends on your goals and your priorities. Gas and oil HVAC products generally heat your home more quickly but can be more expensive to operate. However, they also wear out faster and can be more dangerous (although overall, they are still very safe). Electric HVAC products often have higher upfront costs but are less expensive month-to-month. They’re also better for the environment and can be more efficient overall.
Will air conditioning remove humidity?
Your AC unit or HVAC system controls the temperature of your home. It does not control the moisture within the air. If you are looking to reduce moisture or for the ability to control the humidity – consider a home dehumidifier.
Which air conditioning units are best?
There are many HVAC systems on the market that are energy-efficient and cost-effective. Talk to a professional about your options to find the best home comfort system that meets the needs of you and your family. Our team can provide recommendations based on your needs, your home’s layout and square footage, and your priorities.
How long can you run your AC before it freezes?
If you notice that your AC unit is continuously running without shutting off – the coils could be frozen. If the coils freeze it can lead to liquid refrigerant flooding the unit’s compressor which can cause damage. An air conditioning system should typically run for about 15-20 minutes at a time. If you notice that it is running for time periods that are longer than that, call a professional to determine if there is a repair need. If not – it may not be a suitable size for your home.
At what temperature will an AC unit freeze?
An AC unit is made to run at specific temperature ranges. If you are running your AC unit and the air outside is below 62 degrees, then the pressure that is inside of the AC system can drop and this may freeze the unit.
How long should a furnace run and how often should the furnace cycle?
Your furnace should typically run for about 15-20 minutes at a time, the same as an AC system. It will generally cycle anywhere from 2 to 3 times each hour. There are many factors that may affect how long a furnace will run, such as temperature outside of your home and the insulation within your home.
How long does it take for a furnace to heat up?
When you turn your furnace on, the unit should start up within about 5 minutes from the time you touch your thermostat. After that – it can take anywhere from 10 to 15 minutes to feel the difference and for the furnace to begin warming your home.
How long should a house retain heat?
How long your home retains heat will depend on several factors such as the insulation in your home as well as the age/size of your home. Typically your home will maintain heat for anywhere from 8-12 hours but will begin cooling down immediately after the heating unit is turned off.
What is considered short cycling for a furnace?
When a furnace “short-cycles” that means it turns off prior to reaching the desired temperature, or can also refer to a furnace that is turning on and off too frequently. This can happen if your air filters are too dirty or clogged and cannot allow for proper airflow, thus overheating the furnace unit.
