What is the SEER Rating?
The SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) is how the efficiency of your heating and cooling equipment is measured. The SEER is the amount of cooling your system will deliver per dollar spent on electricity, as compared to other systems. For example, a 3-ton unit may have a SEER efficiency rating of 14 or 15. The higher the SEER the more efficient the system will be. The SEER rating of any given unit can range anywhere from 14 to the 20’s.
Why is the SEER rating on the Energy Guide different than what my dealer quoted?
Each split system cooling unit has a nominal SEER rating. This rating can be increased with the upgrade of the same series indoor unit. The SEER rating of a system is derived based on the combination of equipment installed in the home. The outdoor equipment (heat pump or air conditioner), as well as the indoor equipment (evaporator coil and furnace, or air handler), play a vital role in the total rating.
Why should I have regular (or preventative) maintenance? And how often should I have it performed?
Your heating and cooling systems work incredibly hard to perform their functions for your home every day. The constant stopping, starting and continual operation can wear down any machine if the proper care and maintenance is delayed. However, by performing regular maintenance, you can maximize the lifecycle of your heating or cooling unit and guard against many common equipment failures. Preventive maintenance inspections performed on a regular basis can uncover leaks, rust, rot, soot, frayed wires and corroded electrical contacts that the naked eye may not notice. You should have maintenance done on your system regularly to ensure maximum efficiency and allow prevent possible problems that may occur in the near future.
What equipment requires regular (or preventative) maintenance?
At least once a year heat pumps and air conditioners require a professional tune-up. It is recommended that gas-fired equipment be serviced every year for cleanliness and safety. Inspections on boiler and furnace systems should include ductwork, pipes, dampers, valves, the chimney, registers, radiators, pumps, blowers, fuel lines, the gas meter, oil tank and every part of the actual furnace and boiler. Meanwhile, heat pump and air conditioning unit inspections should also include inspections of the fan, compressor, indoor coils, outdoor coils, electrical components and refrigerant lines.
What are the advantages of a programmable thermostat?
With programmable thermostats you can control the temperature in your home at different times of day without ever touching your thermostat. Because everything is automatic, you will never forget to change the setting on your own, maximizing the opportunity to save on your utility bills.
What type of filter should I use? And how often should I replace it?
Standard filters work to keep your system and its ductwork clean, but they don’t really improve indoor air quality. To do that you need a pleated media filter. The pleated media filter rests between the main return duct and the blower cabinet and will improve dust and particle removal by seven times that of a standard filter. However, upgrading to an electronic filter and/or a UV light will remove everything from insecticide dust to airborne viruses from the filtered air. Always choose a filter that matches your blower’s capacity. For optimum efficiency and filtration, Frederick Air recommends that you replace your 1” disposable filters at least once a month. If you have washable filters, they should be cleaned once a month as well.
Where can I get parts for my HVAC system?
As an HVAC dealer, Frederick Air is the best resource for identifying and supplying the correct, current parts for your system, as well as pricing and availability.
Which HVAC system will best fit my home?
There are many factors that affect the sizing and specifications of your system, including square footage, insulation, window surface and configuration, geographic location of your home, duct sizing and arrangement, and many others.
Frederick Air can perform an in-home load analysis to determine which equipment combinations will perfectly suit your home and your family’s needs. Depending upon the construction of your home, one (1) ton of air conditioning can cool anywhere from 300 to 800 square feet of home. The only way to insure the size of the system you purchase will be large enough to cool your home, but not any larger than you need, is to have your home’s individual heating and cooling needs evaluated by a licensed professional.
What does my warranty cover?
Under most equipment warranties, parts that fail during the warranty period due to defect in the part are covered. Most warranties do not cover labor. Warranty certificates are included with your homeowner information packet, and is specific to the model numbers, serial numbers and installation dates of your products. If you cannot find your warranty certificate or have questions about your coverage, Frederick Air will also be able to provide you with the information.
What is the life expectancy of my unit?
Frederick Air is dedicated to using the most dependable and efficient products available. For your specific equipment, there are many variables that affect life expectancy, and of course, the regularity of routine maintenance. Give us a call to determine the life expectancy of your specific unit.
