MADDOG CONTRACTING LLC
HVAC Contractor
Frequently Asked
Questions
Hiring a new HVAC Contractor can be daunting, which is why we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common questions. If your question isn’t answered, please feel free to get in touch.
DO HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS REQUIRE REGULAR MAINTENANCE?
Yes. HVAC systems need maintenance to maximize the life span and keep your heating or cooling unit running efficiently. Routine maintenance can also uncover any potential future issues, such as leaks, rust, rot, soot frayed wires or corroded electrical contacts.
You should have HVAC maintenance twice a year (every 6 months.) It’s a good idea to get your heating and air conditioning system serviced before summer and winter foroptimal cooling and heating.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I REPLACE THE FILTERS?
You should replace your filters once a month or follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Washable filters should be cleaned once a month.
HOW CAN I OPTIMIZE MY HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEM'S PERFORMANCE?
Change the air filters every month or as directed by your system’s manufacturer. Cut back foliage and remove any leaves, grass trimmings that might be blocking airflow to the outdoor unit. Have your system serviced by a licensed professional HVAC dealer before peak season
WHAT IS THE PROPER SYSTEM SIZE FOR MY BUILDING?
Several factors should be considered for sizing the equipment load . To size a heating and cooling system, ceiling height, construction, window size and placement, along with other variables should be considered. Skilled HVAC professionals can calculate the perfect size for your home.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF A PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTAT?
Programmable thermostats are more efficient and precise than older thermostats.They allow you to set different temperatures for certain times of the day. For instance, you can set the thermostat to be one temperature for when you’re away and another temperature for when you’re asleep. This allows you to save money on your electrical bills. Some programmable thermostats can be controlled remotely with a smart phone, which allows you more control than ever!
WHAT TEMPERATURE SHOULD I SET MY THERMOSTAT TO?
The average temperature setting is 78°-80° in the summer and 70°-72° in the winter. However, it can vary due to personal comfort levels. Avoid changing the temperature too much when you’re away from your home. Anything more than a 5° temperature change can cause your unit to work harder and be less efficient.
WHAT IS TWO-STAGE COOLING?
Two-stage cooling and heating works on 2 levels of operation. It can work at full capacity for times when more heat or cooling is needed or it can run at partial capacity for the rest of the time. This results in greater efficiency and can even help remove humidity in the summer for whole home comfort and healthier indoor air quality.
HOW ARE THE SIZING CAPACITIES OF HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEMS MEASURED?
Heating and cooling systems are sized in tons. One ton equals 12,000 BTU/H. HVAC systems for homes can range between 1 and 5 tons.
HOW IS THE EFFICIENCY OF HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEMS MEASURED?
The efficiency of air conditioning is measured in S.E.E.R or seasonal energy efficiency ratio. This measures the amount of cooling your system delivers per dollar spent on electricity. More efficient units will have a higher S.E.E.R rating (these can range between 13 and25.)
WHAT IS AFUE?
AFUE or Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency is the percentage for rating furnace efficiencies. The ratio is calculated by dividing the ratio of heat output by the heat input. AFUE refers to how well fuel, natural gas or propane is consumed to produce heat by a furnace. The higher the AFUE, the more efficient the furnace, which can save you money.
HOW CAN I FIND THE SYSTEM THAT IS RIGHT FOR ME?
A skilled Heating and Air Conditioning professional can help you choose the right heating and cooling system for you, taking into account the size and age of your home, the number of rooms, and climate of your location. Replacing a unit with amore energy efficient unit can also affect your selection.