Q: What is the difference between R22 and R410a? A: R22 is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon refrigerant that contributes to ozone depletion and climate change. Production and importing of R22 is banned in the United States. Production of equipment using R22 was banned in 2010. R410a is the refrigerant most commonly used in air conditioning equipment manufactured after 2010. R410a is a hydrofluorocarbon refrigerant that does not contribute to ozone depletion, they do lead to climate change and need to be handled responsibly. (www.epa.gov)
Q: How much does a new replacement system cost? A: Due to different sizes, makes and models and customer needs, price is hard to determine without a thorough evaluation of your home and existing equipment. We offer no charge in-home proposals. Cost to replace a furnace can be from $2000 to $5000 Cost to replace and air conditioner can be from $2500 to $5000
Q: What size furnace and air conditioner should I have? A: There is no rule of thumb for sizing a furnace or air conditioner. We perform load calculations during every in home proposal at no cost.
Q: What temperature should I set my thermostat? A: Whatever you are comfortable with. In the summer, air conditioned buildings are generally kept about 10-15 degrees F below the outdoor temperature. This would typically be a thermostat setting between 70 degrees F and 75 degrees F. In the winter it is usually 66 degrees F to 80 degrees F, depending on humidity. You can save up to 1% for every 8 hours that you lower your thermostat setting by 1 degree F.
Q: How often should I have maintenance on my furnace and air conditioner? A: You should have maintenance on your furnace and air conditioner annually. this both ensures maximum efficiency and enables us to foresee any possible problems that might arise in the future. Our Preventative Maintenance Plan also qualifies you for reduced service call rates and discounts on repairs.
Q: Why is properly sizing a furnace and air conditioner so important? A: It is important to size a furnace and air conditioner properly for comfort, cost, and longevity. Oversized equipment costs more initially and costs more to operate. Oversized equipment may short cycle leading to hot and cold spots and lack of dehumidification. Short cycling is also hard on the equipment which can reduce longevity and costs more to purchase. Undersized equipment may not heat or cool sufficiently in extreme conditions. We perform load calculations during every in home proposal at no cost.
Q: How often should I replace my filter? A: One inch wide disposable filters should be replaced monthly. Four inch wide disposable filters should be replaced every six to twelve months. Washable filters should be cleaned monthly. Electronic air cleaners pre-filters should be cleaned monthly and the cells should be cleaned every three to six months. Filters should be cleaned or replaced more often after any home renovation when dust causing activities have occurred (drywall, sanding, etc.) If you notice a lack of heating or cooling or frequent need to dust, check your filter.
Q: How is the efficiency of furnaces and air conditioners measured? A: Gas furnaces are rated for efficiency by Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency or AFUE. AFUE compares the yearly energy output to the yearly energy input. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the furnace. Upgrading from an 80% efficient furnace to a 96% efficient model will save 16% on heating fuel cost (average $22 month) Upgrading from a 10 SEER air conditioner to a 13 SEER air conditioner 23% (average $26 month) SEER is Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. SEER is calculated by dividing how much heat is removed from the home by how much energy is used to remove that heat. The higher the SEER, the more efficient.
Q: Where do I get furnace and air conditioner information? A: If you have any questions about you home's furnace, air conditioner, humidifier, or indoor air quality, call us. Some of our resources include our vendors, factory service representatives, the International Fuel Gas Code, Ohio Mechanical Code, Modern Refrigeration and A/C 18 ed., www.bryant.com, and www.Warmair.com.
Q: When should my furnace or air conditioner be replaced? A: According to ASHRAE (the industry organization that sets standards and guidelines for most all HVAC-R equipment) the median life expectancy for Residential single or Split System air conditioners is 15 years, gas or oil fired furnace is 18 years. (www.ashrae.org) If your furnace or air conditioner is older than the median life expectancy it should be replaced due to age considering reliability and efficiency. It is recommended to replace rather than repair in these cases.
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