We are always happy to help our customers learn about their HVAC system. Here are a few questions to help you do just that!

COOLING

HEATING

GENERATORS


 
 


What is Preventative Maintenance?

Preventative maintenance is the key in prolonging the life of your air conditioning system. There are numerous benefits of annual maintenance: healthier indoor air quality, lower utility bills, safer operation, and more. Neglecting preventative maintenance will almost certainly lead to a steady decline in the performance of your air conditioning unit. You can see our Preventative Maintenance Plans HERE


Do air conditioners harm the environment?
Since the Montreal Protocol in 1987, the use of chemicals, including refrigerants that include ozone-depleting CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) have been steadily phased out. Refrigerants that include CFCs are no longer used in new air conditioners or by technicians. AC units also use a lot of electricity. Still, more efficient units, better refrigerants, and more environmentally-friendly methods of generating electricity are being developed all the time.


How can I keep my electricity bill down during the summer?
There are several steps you can take to keep your utility bills low. Keeping the thermostat at a reasonable level is the easiest thing to do, but you also need to consider how well your home is insulated, the efficiency of your air conditioner, and how much shade your home gets. Get more information here.


Is my air conditioner big enough for my home/business?
The best way to determine this is by having a professional air conditioning technician do an audit of your space. But you can also look out for a couple clues. If you find that your current unit is running constantly just to keep up on an average summer day, it may be too small. Conversely, if the air inside feels cool and clammy, the unit may be too big to manage humidity effectively.


My air conditioner runs all the time. Is this a problem?
On extremely hot days, your air conditioner may have to run constantly in order to keep up. At a reasonable setting on a cooler day, however, there could be a problem. The air conditioner may be too small, it may need to be cleaned, or a part might need to be replaced.


What kind of regular maintenance is needed?
To keep your HVAC system running efficiently and to keep the air in your home clean at any time of the year, you should replace the filter every month or two depending on its condition. Besides the filter, you should have your system checked out by a professional AC technician at least once a year. This check is best done in the spring, before you need to use your air conditioner.


How often should I clean my air conditioner?
Just like any piece of machinery, parts of your air conditioner needs to be cleaned every so often in order to keep running as efficiently as possible. This can be done during a yearly system check by a professional Absolute Comfort AC technician. Learn More about our Preventative Maintenance Plans HERE.


Can you make the air coming from the AC colder?
Not for a brand new unit. But if you have an older air conditioner, we can clean the condenser coils, change the filter, or even shade the unit itself. An air conditioner that sits in direct sunlight on a hot day will have a harder time doing its job than one in the shade.


Can I replace my window air conditioners with a central air conditioner?
This is possible, but if your home has never had a central air conditioning system, the installation cost can be very high. However, central air systems are more efficient than window units, so in some cases the investment could pay off in the long term.


Should I worry about AC theft?
In the past few years, thefts of parts of air conditioners or even entire units has been increasingly common. This is due to the high price of copper, and thieves have been known to steal units from home and businesses, even when they’re occupied. If copper theft is a problem in your area, it may be wise to invest in some security measures like a cage. Also, check existing security measures like good fencing, gate locks, etc.


Do you service floor furnaces?
We do not service floor furnaces. However, we can give you information about upgrading your system to a modern, more efficient one.


What is variable speed technology?
Variable speed furnaces allow for longer run times, increasing the efficiency of your system and the overall comfort in your home. Variable speed motors can also run constantly at low speed (at very low energy cost), which improves the air quality in your house.


What should I check prior to calling for service?
Sometimes the problem can be solved by something as simple as replacing the batteries in the thermostat, replacing the air filters, or even plugging in the furnace. These are some of the things you can check before calling for service.


How do I select the right furnace?
Simply call an Absolute Comfort Technologies Consultant. Our Consultants come to your home to assess your needs and help you discover the system that is perfect for your home and your budget.


How long should a furnace last?
A properly maintained furnace should last 15-20 years. Regular maintenance is the most important factor in prolonging the life of your furnace. (We have a Preventative Maintenance Plan HERE) However, many other factors can impact a furnace’s lifespan.


How efficient is a standard furnace?
The least efficient furnaces sold today are 80 percent efficient. If your furnace was manufactured before 1992 it could have an efficiency rating as low as 65 percent. We sell furnaces that are up to 97 percent efficient, which are better for the environment and can save tremendously on energy costs.


Should I repair or replace my furnace?
Your furnace is a personal preference and an investment, so the final decision is yours concerning repairing or replacing it. Our job is to give you detailed, honest information about the costs and benefits of your various options.

At Absolute Comfort Technologies Inc., we take this part of our job very seriously. Whatever option you choose, we want to be your heat and air service provider for life. We’ll give your our expert opinions and recommendations based on our decades of experience, but you’ll experience no sales pressure from us. Instead, we will ensure you are confident in your decision.


My furnace comes on and goes right back off. Why?
This is called short cycling. One of the most common culprits is dirty filters. Dirty filters cause heat to build up in the system causing the furnace to shut off. Thankfully, this is an easy fix. However, faulty thermostats, dirty flame sensors, clogged vent pipes, and mis-sized equipment, can also cause short cycling. The bottom line is, short cycling can be a sign of a serious problem and we recommend you call an Absolute Comfort HVAC professional.


Can I put a generator in my house?
Coming soon!


What are residential uses of a generator?
Coming Soon!