HVAC FAQ & Knowledge Center

Most HVAC systems last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. Air conditioners and heat pumps typically last 15-20 years, while furnaces can last 20-30 years. Consider replacement if your system is over 15 years old and requiring frequent repairs, or if repair costs exceed 50% of a new system's price.

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It refers to the systems that control temperature, humidity, and air quality in buildings. Modern HVAC systems often include heating (furnaces, heat pumps), cooling (air conditioners), ventilation (ductwork, fans), and air filtration components.

Signs your HVAC needs service include: unusual noises, weak airflow, inconsistent temperatures, higher than normal energy bills, frequent cycling, strange odors, and visible leaks or moisture. If your system is over 10 years old and hasn't been serviced recently, schedule a tune-up.

For optimal comfort and efficiency, set your thermostat to 68-72°F for cooling and 68-70°F for heating when you're home. Lower heating 7-10 degrees or raise cooling 7-10 degrees while away to save energy. A programmable or smart thermostat can automate these adjustments.

Smart thermostats typically save 10-15% on heating and cooling costs by learning your schedule and preferences. They offer remote control via smartphone, energy usage reports, and integration with smart home systems. Most homeowners recoup the investment within 1-2 years through energy savings.

Common causes include: dirty air filter restricting airflow, low refrigerant from leaks, dirty condenser coils, frozen evaporator coils, thermostat issues, or compressor problems. Start by checking and replacing your filter, then call a professional if the problem persists.

Replace standard 1-inch filters every 30-90 days. Homes with pets, allergies, or high dust may need monthly changes. Higher-quality 4-inch filters can last 6-12 months. Check your filter monthly—if it looks dirty, replace it regardless of time passed.

AC sizing depends on square footage, ceiling height, insulation, windows, climate zone, and more. Rough estimates suggest 20 BTU per square foot, but proper sizing requires a Manual J load calculation. An oversized AC wastes energy and causes humidity problems; undersized units can't keep up.