HVAC Frequently Asked Questions

Regular maintenance, cleaning or replacing filters, sealing ducts, and installing a programmable thermostat can significantly improve your AC unit’s efficiency.

This could be due to low refrigerant levels, a dirty filter, or a malfunctioning compressor. It’s best to check these components or call a technician.

The size of your AC unit should be determined by your home’s square footage, insulation, and specific cooling needs. Using a BTU calculator or consulting with a professional can help.

Air filters should be changed every 1-3 months depending on usage and the type of filter. This ensures better air quality and efficiency.

Common issues include low refrigerant, dirty coils, or a malfunctioning thermostat. Inspect these areas or get professional help.

Programmable thermostats offer better temperature control, energy savings, and convenience by allowing you to set schedules.

Annual maintenance is recommended to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your AC unit.

Loud noises can be caused by loose parts, debris, or a failing motor. Inspect these areas or contact a technician.

Turn off the thermostat, reset the circuit breaker, wait 30 minutes, then turn the thermostat back on.

Leaks can be caused by a clogged condensate drain, rusty condensate pan, or low refrigerant levels. Cleaning the drain and checking the pan can help.

With proper maintenance, an AC unit can last 10-15 years.

Use a programmable thermostat, ensure proper insulation, keep blinds closed during the day, and perform regular maintenance.

Check the thermostat settings, circuit breaker, and fuses. If the problem persists, call a professional.

Signs include warm air, hissing noises, and ice buildup on the coils. A professional can check and recharge the refrigerant.

This issue is often caused by low refrigerant, poor airflow, or dirty coils. Turn off the unit and inspect these components.

In Florida, it is generally not necessary to cover your AC unit, as it can trap moisture and cause damage.

Set it to 78°F when home and higher when away to balance comfort and energy savings.

Frequent cycling can be due to an oversized unit, dirty filter, or thermostat issues. Inspect these areas and adjust as necessary.

Turn off the unit and contact a professional to locate and repair the leak.

Turn off the power, remove debris, use a coil cleaner, rinse with water, and let it dry before turning it back on.

Duct cleaning can improve air quality and system efficiency, especially if there is visible mold, debris, or pest infestation.

Ask for recommendations, check online reviews, and verify licensing and insurance.

Options include central air, ductless mini-splits, and window units. The best choice depends on your home’s size and specific cooling needs.

Costs typically range from $3,800 to $7,900 depending on the unit size, type, and installation complexity.

This can be caused by a short circuit, overloaded circuit, or failing motor. Call an electrician or HVAC technician.

Use high-quality filters, maintain the unit regularly, and consider additional air purifiers or dehumidifiers.

 They offer energy efficiency, flexible installation, and individualized room control without needing ductwork.

Yes, if you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and are comfortable with basic electrical work.

Causes include mold, mildew, or a dirty filter. Clean the unit and replace the filter.

Signs include poor airflow, high energy bills, and visible damage or mold in the ducts.

Common repairs include fixing refrigerant leaks, replacing capacitors, and repairing motors. Costs vary based on the issue.

Use your AC unit, a dehumidifier, and ensure proper ventilation.

This could be due to a dirty filter, refrigerant leak, or an oversized unit. Check and address these issues.

Change filters, clean coils, check refrigerant levels, and inspect the condensate drain.

 Look for experience, licensing, insurance, and positive reviews. Get multiple quotes and ask for references.

Signs include strange noises, reduced cooling, and tripping circuit breakers.

Turn off the unit, locate the filter, remove and replace it with a new one of the same size and type.

This can be caused by low refrigerant, poor airflow, or dirty coils. Turn off the unit and check these components.

Check for loose parts, debris, or unbalanced components. Tighten any loose parts or call a technician.

This task is best performed by a professional using specialized tools.

Benefits include improved efficiency, lower energy bills, longer unit lifespan, and fewer repairs.

 Yes, it can reduce airflow, efficiency, and air quality. Replace the filter regularly.

Check the filter, fan, and thermostat settings. If these are fine, call a professional.

Use a BTU calculator or consult an HVAC professional to ensure proper sizing.

These sounds may indicate a refrigerant leak. Turn off the unit and call a technician.

Use a wet/dry vacuum to suck out debris or flush the line with a mix of water and vinegar.

 In Florida, covering is not necessary and can trap moisture, causing damage.

Set it to 78°F when home and higher when away to balance comfort and energy savings.

Use a programmable thermostat, ensure proper insulation, keep blinds closed during the day, and perform regular maintenance.

Use ceiling fans, seal leaks,