Frequently Asked Questions

                 • What size HVAC system should I have?
                 • How are the sizing capacities of an HVAC unit measured?
                 • Is a system with more capacity better?
                 • Should I try to keep my system from running too much?
                 • How can I increase the efficiency of my home's central air conditioning?
                 • How often should I replace my filters?
                 • At what temperature should I set my thermostat?
                 • What are the advantages of a programmable thermostat?
                 • How often should I have my HVAC system serviced?
                 • What advantages will having my HVAC unit serviced bring me?

1.  What size HVAC system should I have?

Believe it or not, there is no real rule or measure of thumb for this. One ton of air conditioning can effectively cool 300 to 800 square feet of your home. Your home's construction and other factors can effectively allow an AC service tech to help you make this decision.

2. How are the sizing capacities of an HVAC unit measured?

They are measured according to tonnage.  One ton equals 12,000 BTU/H.  Most residental HVAC systems contain between one and five tons.

3.  Is a system with more capacity better?

No, it isn't. A larger system with more capacity will cost more to operate and won't provide the same level of comfort that an adequately sized unit would.  An air conditioning unit is the least efficient when it is first turning on.  A system with large capacity will continuously turn itself off and on, running in short cycles.  On top of this, an air conditioner is only really effective at removing humidity when it is running, so when it has numerous short cycles the humidity is not being properly addressed.

4. Should I try to keep my system from running too much?

Yes.  Every time your system starts up, it is using a great deal of electricity to do so without offering much cooling. A smaller system that runs non stop would actually be more energy efficient than one that constantly cycles on and off.

5.  How can I increase the efficiency of my homes central air conditioning?

The absolute best thing you can do is clean and replace your filters with frequency. This goes a long way in keeping your energy bills down.

6.  How often should I replace my filters?

For optimum filtration and efficiency, we recommend you change your filter once a month.

7.  At what temperature should I set my thermostat?

The best advice that can be given is that when leaving your house, for energy consumption purposes you should always avoid drastic temperature changes. Do not set your thermostats temperature back more than 5 degrees. If you do your unit will have to work extremely hard to achieve the new temperature setting when you return home and this is when air conditioning use is its most expensive.

8.  What are the advantages of a programmable thermostat?

The main benefit is accuracy. When your thermostat is electronic it is more accurate and thus more efficient than a thermostat that contains mercury. You can also program certain temperatures for the appropriate time of day automatically without ever changing it yourself. This convenience and accuracy makes a programmable thermostat a great luxury.

9.  How often should I have my unit serviced?

To ensure maximum efficiency, it is recommended that you have your HVAC serviced at least twice a year.  This will keep your ac system running at peak performance year round and keep your energy bills low.

10.  What advantages will having my HVAC unit serviced bring me?

When you have your ac system serviced by our technicians you will enjoy cold and efficient air conditioning. It will be clean also, free of allergens and dust that can pollute your HVAC system. When you have your ac system serviced at least twice a year you will have knowledge of how effective your air conditioning system is and in effect you will save money on your monthly energy bill.