FAQ
These are the most frequently asked questions about HVAC, Sizing, and More. Please feel free to contact us if you don’t see your question answered below.
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General Questions
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How healthy is my indoor air?
According to studies created by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, exposure to air pollutants indoors can be 100 times higher than outdoors. Not all airborne particles can be eliminated through frequent dusting and vacuuming. Your air is as clean as your filtration system. Filtration devices can help eliminate particles that are too small to be caught by a vacuum. Some filtration devices include UV light units, air filters, energy recovery ventilators (ERVs), heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) and electronic air cleaners. A Home Health Report Card from Service Experts will provide the information about which indoor air improvement devices are right for you. To receive a Home Health Report Card and personal air quality consultation call your AAA Xtreme Comfort experts.
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How can I increase the efficiency and life of my home’s heating and cooling systems?
Perform routine maintenance and make sure to change your filters! Some basics you can do: Clean and replace your filters frequently. Your system will heat and cool more evenly when the fan is in the “on” position. The blower provides constant air movement throughout the home, and allows for better filtration. Install shades, drapes, shutters, or screens on windows that are exposed to extreme sunlight to keep room temperatures at moderate levels.
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At what temperature should I set my thermostat?
This is something that is both subjective, and dependent on your actual living environment. Generally, we recommend 74°. In the summer, the average temperature setting is 75°-80°. In the winter 68°-72° is the norm. Remember, when leaving your house; try to avoid drastic temperature changes. Do not set your temperature back more than 5°; this will cause your unit to work harder to achieve the desired temperature setting.
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Is sound an issue for heating and air conditioning?
Yes. Loud heating and cooling equipment contribute to sound pollution. Although no financial savings are tied to lower sound levels, the sound rating of a cooling system can have a considerable effect on comfort and enjoyment of your home. Wouldn't having a quiet HVAC system make it easier to talk to your guests? Even sleep? The sound level of an air conditioner or heat pump depends on a variety of factors, such as the age and make of the unit, and whether the compressor is insulated or not can contribute to the amount of noise it makes.
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Why do I need to change my filter regularly?
Regular filter replacement helps your heating and cooling system operate at peak levels and improves indoor air quality. It is important to change filters regularly to encourage proper and clean airflow-- free from dust, allergens and germs. Depending on the type of filter you have, you may require weekly or monthly filter replacements. Your AAA Xtreme Comfort service or installation technician will recommend the ideal filters and replacement schedules for your unit(s).
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How do I know if I have an existing warranty on my furnace, air conditioner or HVAC system?
Locate the label on the outer surface of the equipment for a manufacture date. If the equipment is less than five years old it may have a warranty, but depending on the model may not have one. Warranty terms and conditions change by manufacturer and the installing company.
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What regular maintenance do heating and air conditioning systems need?
The most important part of HVAC maintenance aspect is maintaining unrestricted air flows. Dust, dirt, and debris are an HVAC system’s worst enemies. Whether it’s an indoor or outdoor unit, you must keep all filters clean and heat exchangers and condensation and evaporator coils free of restrictions. We recommend that your heating and cooling system be checked and serviced twice a year; ideally a spring and autumn tune-up. Also we recommend that you change your filter regularly, depending on the type of filter you have. This alone can eliminate many of the most common problems that need fixing and can significantly reduce the likelihood of a serious breakdown.
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What is HVAC?HVAC is short for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning. HVAC usually refers to the whole heating and cooling system consisting of the duct work, air filters, humidification controls, and registers.
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Mechanical Questions
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How do I know which indoor air quality product is right for me?
Every person and every home entails a different comfort need. The threshold of irritancy and triggers that affect people’s health and comfort combine to determine the proper solutions. High threshold levels may require simple solutions like a better air filter. Low threshold levels may require an air purification system for the reduction of triggers and irritants. Do you have pets? Live in an extremely dusty area? With a Home Health Report Card, AAA Xtreme Comfort Experts can help you decide which indoor air improvement products are right for you.
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How do I know if my A/C unit is big enough?
Bigger isn’t always better; its performance and efficiency that count. Before purchasing a replacement system you should always make sure your system is sized properly to match your needs and budget. Your AAA Xtreme Comfort expert will thoroughly assess your home and comfort requirements and perform heatloss and heatgain calculations to determine the proper size and make the appropriate recommendation.
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How can I increase the efficiency and life of my home’s heating and cooling systems?Perform routine maintenance and make sure to change your filters! Some basics you can do: Clean and replace your filters frequently. Your system will heat and cool more evenly when the fan is in the “on” position. The blower provides constant air movement throughout the home, and allows for better filtration. Install shades, drapes, shutters, or screens on windows that are exposed to extreme sunlight to keep room temperatures at moderate levels.
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