Tag: FAQ

10 frequently asked HVAC Questions, Answered

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Every homeowner who has heating, cooling and ventilation systems, wants it to work efficiently and effectively. Here are some questions we frequently get asked:

1. How do I choose an air filter for my HVAC system?

Every system has their own specific sized filter, this can be found on the current filter in the system. If you suffer from asthma or allergies, a higher-grade filter is best. Pleated air filters are good for reducing allergens; however they cannot be left in the unit for too long or they will become clogged.

2. How do I know if my HVAC system is running safely?

We always recommend having working carbon monoxide and fire detectors in your home. This is also a Wisconsin state requirement. This can give you peace of mind that your HVAC system is not a hazard. 

3. How can I increase efficiency and the lifespan of my HVAC equipment?

The best way to improve your systems efficiency and increase it’s lifespan is by regularly changing its filters and keeping it clean. We recommend having your system serviced once a year for a tune-up. Other ways to increase efficiency include having a programmable thermostat, keeping curtains closed and making sure no vents are blocked from airflow, etc.

4. Does adjusting the thermostat up or down really save money on energy bills?

The short answer is yes, adjusting your thermostat up or down can save you money on your energy bill. However we do not recommend – Starting up and shutting down consumes a lot of energy so changing the temperature frequently causes unnecessary wear and tear on not only t6. he thermostat but on your HVAC system as a whole. 

5. How often should I have my heating & cooling systems serviced?

It is recommended to have your heating and cooling systems serviced at least once a year. This will increase the lifespan and efficiency.

6. What size system does my home require?

If your HVAC system is too large, then you are paying more for no reason and adding additional wear and tear to your equipment. If your HVAC system is too small, you may not be able to cool or heat your house efficiently enough. To determine the correct size system, you will need to calculate your square footage, determine your base BTUs and pick your unit. Technicians will do a Rescheck or Manual J, which helps increase the accuracy of your system size by looking at other factors such as your local climates, insulation of your home, etc. 

What is SEER rating and why is it important?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. SEER is the ratio of cooling output of an AC over a regular cooling season, then divided by the energy it uses in Watt-Hours. This ratio is calculated over an entire cooling season using a constant indoor temperature. The higher the SEER rating, the greater the energy efficiency of the system. 

8. How long will my HVAC system last?

Your HVAC system should typically last 15-20 years, but there are factors that play into this time frame. Changing your air filters often and regularly servicing your systems can help increase longevity. If you have any worries about your heating & cooling system, it is best to have it checked out sooner than later. 

9. Does Furnace or AC brand matter?

The brand of your furnace/AC can make a difference, but is not the most important part in the life of your HVAC system. No matter the brand, if your system isn’t installed to the manufacturing code, you could be losing out on money. Who installs your system and the attention to details is more important than the equipment itself. 

10. How much will my new Air Conditioner or Furnace cost?

The only way to have an exact price on your installation is by having a technician come out to your home to do a free estimate. This ensures that you are getting the best price. 

Factors that go into pricing include: 

  • Efficiency of the equipment
  • Whether your system is single-stage, two-stage or variable speed
  • The size of your home
  • Whether or not ductwork is needed
  • Condensation pump considerations

Typically:
Air Conditioner replacement can range from $4,500 – $12,000
Furnace replacement can range from $4,000 – $8,000
Full system replacement can range $8,000 – $18,000


Have any other questions? Feel free to send us an email at NorthlandProHVAC@gmail.com or message us. We can also be reached by texting or calling 715-580-0741

Air Conditioner FAQ:

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Ever hear a funny noise from your air conditioning system and wonder what is that sound? Or wonder if it is time to replace your system? Here are some frequently asked questions that we get about AC:

How do I know if my air conditioner (AC) is broken?

  1. If your AC won’t turn on, try turning on the fan to see if the blower has any power.
  2. If your air filter hasn’t been changed in over a month, the built up debris could be preventing proper airflow.
  3. If your thermostat is blank, it may need new batteries.
  4. If you checked all of these items, you may need to call a professional.

Why is my AC making noises?

  1. A light humming sound is normal for an AC, but if you start to hear unusual sounds like buzzing, banging, rattling, this could be a sign that something is definitely wrong. Do not ignore the loud noises and call an expert.

What should I do before turning on my air conditioner?

  1. Before you fire up your AC you should change your filter and clean the condenser and surrounding yard. Then have a professional AC tune-up to prepare for the hot spring/summer days.

When should I replace my AC?

  1. AC’s can last somewhere between 10 to 20 years, sometimes longer if well taken care of. If you are continuously having problems with your AC and it is older, it may be more cost effective to have it replaced.

Why is my AC freezing up?

  1. Most of the time when an AC freezes up it is caused from lack of refrigerant or air flow to the evaporator coils. If you notice that the AC is freezing up, we recommend turning it off to prevent further damage.

Why is my AC leaking condensation? Should I be worried?

  1. A little condensation can be normal, however leaks can usually indicate that there’s a problem with the way the condensation is draining.

If you are experiencing any of these problems, we always recommend changing your filter and to get advice from an expert. To ensure that your air conditioner has a long life expectancy, we recommend yearly tune-ups before the hot season begins.

If you have any other air conditioning questions, feel free to give us a call at 715-580-0741

Or send us a message!