Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to service my heating/cooling system?
If your home just has a gas furnace, servicing is recommended at least once a year before the heating season. If you also have a system that includes a heat pump or air conditioner, perform maintenance in the spring and fall.
Most of our emergency service calls come in when people's heating systems don't turn on first thing in the fall or people's cooling systems don't turn on when the first heat wave hits. Scheduling your system for annual maintenance before these times will keep your furnace, heat pump and/or air conditioner running safely and efficiently all year long!
We do offer service call reminders for those who are interested. Simply fill out our Service Call Reminder form and we will send you an email when you are due.
Where can I find my owner’s guide?
We have pulled them all together here on our website. Visit our Owner's Manuals page. If you don't see it, contact us at [email protected] and we will track it down for you!
What is a heat pump?
A heat pump, as part of a central heating and cooling system, uses the outside air to both heat a home in winter and cool it in summer.
What It Is
Technically, a heat pump is a mechanical-compression cycle refrigeration system that can be reversed to either heat or cool a controlled space. Installation for this type of system typically consists of two parts: an indoor unit called an air handler and an outdoor unit similar to a central air conditioner, but referred to as a heat pump. A compressor circulates refrigerant that absorbs and releases heat as it travels between the indoor and outdoor units.
How It Works
Think of a heat pump as a heat transporter constantly moving warm air from one place to another, to where its needed or not needed, depending on the season. Even in air that’s seems too cold, heat energy is present. When it’s cold outside a heat pump extracts this outside heat and transfers it inside. When it’s warm outside, it reverses directions and acts like an air conditioner, removing heat from your home.
One advantage of a heat pump is that it moves heat instead of generating heat, giving you more energy efficiency. Also, it is powered by electricity, so you can save substantially on fuel consumption. For example, a Trane XL20i heat pump is among the HVAC industry’s most efficient, with a rating up to 19.00 SEER and 9.00 HSPF.
How do I clean or change my furnace filter?
You should always double-check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations, but generally speaking it’s best to clean or change your filters once every 3 to 9 months. Remember, regular cleaning/changing of your filter will ensure the best filtration, increase the life of your machine, and give you peace of mind that you’re breathing easier.