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Frequently Asked Questions
Have some questions about keeping your home comfortable? You're not alone. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about heating and cooling.
For nearly a century, homeowners just like you have put their trust in Bryant for comfort, reliability and energy savings. That tradition continues today as we expand our environmentally sound family of products using the chlorine-free refrigerant Puron®.
The refrigerant used in most home comfort systems; Freon*-22, will soon be phased out by federal law. When a refrigerant is phased out, the cost of servicing products using that refrigerant rises dramatically.
Matthew's Electric, Inc. is the key to helping you avoid the rising costs associated with Freon-22. We'll analyze your home comfort needs and recommend the Puron system that makes sense for you.
Puron refrigerant replaces Freon-22 with proven efficiency and comfort. Very soon, you will be faced with a decision about your comfort. As the costs associated Freon-22 rise and supplies of the refrigerant are reduced, you will need to either continue servicing your current system, or you can improve your home's comfort and energy efficiency with Bryant products using the environmentally sound Puron refrigerant. Puron is the long-term solution for environmentally sound heating and cooling. And, it's a refrigerant we've been using quite successfully in homes like yours since 1996.
While many other manufacturers begin to develop environmentally sound products, only Bryant is expanding on a successful family of products already in use. We're ahead of the competition in design, and we have always taken great pride in our reliability testing.
Offering better efficiency, quieter operation and greater environmental safety, Bryant's Puron air conditioners, heat pumps, fan coils and packaged products are excellent choices for enhanced indoor comfort now, and for the future.
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Since most of us spend the majority of our time indoors, it makes sense to have an indoor environment that's healthy and comfortable.
While your home may have unique needs, the best way to insure your comfort and health is to have your heating and cooling system provide the right balance of heating, air conditioning, air cleaning and humidification. No other single system plays a larger part in how much you enjoy your time at home or in how much you pay out to utility companies each month.
For most of us, comfort starts with keeping our home the right temperature, whether that's toasty warm on bone-chilling winter nights or pleasantly cool in the 'dog days' of summer. Maintaining the perfect temperature is the job of your heating and cooling equipment.
Today's heating systems are more efficient and reliable than ever, but heating is still the single largest energy expense in most homes. In northern climates, it may account for up to two-thirds of the energy budget. So it's important to understand what kind of system will give you both comfort and affordability. Matthew's Electric, Inc. can help you decide which system is best suited for your home.
For the optimal combination of comfort and efficiency, a total comfort system is your best bet. By matching a furnace and air conditioner (or heat pump and fan coil) with the right products for air cleaning, ventilation, humidity and system control, you can make your home a much more comfortable place to spend your time and save money on your energy bills.
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While heat pumps and air conditioners require the use of some different components in your heating and cooling system, the three most important factors you should evaluate are essentially the same: quality, efficiency, and comfort features.
Quality
When you purchase a new car, the quality of it helps determine how well it will perform and for how long. An air conditioner or heat pump is really no different. Purchasing a brand name that has a reputation for quality and reliability can save you headaches and extra expense down the road.
New Bryant air conditioners and split systems, for example, undergo 34 quality tests and checks during production, with more than 20 of these being performed on every unit - not just on random samples. Plus, we back every air conditioner and heat pump in writing, with the strongest limited warranties in the industry. Extended warranties are also available; call your local Bryant dealer for details.
Efficiency
Cooling efficiency for air conditioners and heat pumps is indicated by a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating, which tells you how efficiently the unit uses electricity. Heat pumps also have heating efficiency ratings, indicated as an HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor). In general, the higher the SEER or HSPF rating, the less electricity the unit will use to cool (or heat) your home. For more details, go to Comparing Performance. In 1992, the government established minimum efficiency standards for units installed in new homes at 10.0 SEER and 6.8 HSPF. Most air conditioners and heat pumps manufactured before 1992 had SEER ratings below 7.0 and HSPF ratings below 5.0.
Air conditioners and heat pumps manufactured today have SEER ratings that range from 10.0 to about 17. Heat pumps are available with HSPF ratings from about 6.8 to 10.0.
Usually, the higher the efficiency, the more expensive the unit. If you live in a warm and/or humid climate, you will probably see the higher cost of a high-efficiency air conditioner or heat pump paid back (through lower utility bills) in a few short years. Your dealer can use cooling data from your area to help you determine about how long it would take you to recover the additional cost in energy savings. Of course, after the payback, you continue to save on your energy bills for the life of the system.
One other point to keep in mind is that your heat pump or air conditioner is a "split system," which means that there is an outdoor unit (condenser) and an indoor unit (coil). If you're replacing an existing system, both units should be replaced to make sure your new condensing unit gives you optimal performance, efficiency and comfort.
Comfort Features
Some air conditioners and heat pumps offer additional features that provide greater comfort as well as additional energy savings. Two-speed units can run on low speed (using 50% of the energy) up to 80% of the time, so they operate more quietly and run for longer periods of time than single-speed models. Longer operating periods translate into fewer on/off cycles, fewer drafts and much smaller temperature swings -- only two or three degrees instead of the four-degree swings common with single-speed units. Plus, better air circulation helps prevent air "stratification" - warm air rising to the ceiling and cold air settling on the floor. In short, you get consistent, even cooling throughout your home. If you purchase a multi-speed or variable-capacity furnace or fan coil with your unit, you will enhance both the comfort and the efficiency of your air conditioning or heat pump system even further.
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There are basically three ways you can compare the performance of different models and brands: (1) How much energy they use to heat or cool your home (Efficiency); (2) How much you notice their presence (Sound Levels); and (3) How they make you feel (Comfort).
Efficiency - Furnaces
The efficiency of a furnace is measured in a rating known as AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). A lot like your car's miles per gallon rating, AFUE tells you how efficiently the furnace converts fuel (gas or oil) into heat. An AFUE of 80% means that 80% of the fuel is used to heat your home, while the other 20% basically goes up the chimney.
In 1992, the government established a minimum AFUE rating for furnaces installed in new homes at 78%. (In contrast, many furnaces manufactured before 1992 had AFUE ratings as low as 60% - so nearly half the fuel was being wasted.) Furnaces with AFUE ratings of 78% to 80% are considered "mid-efficiency"; those with ratings of 90% or higher are known as "high efficiency." The maximum furnace efficiency available is around 96.6%.
In general, the higher the efficiency of the furnace, the more it will cost but the less fuel it will use to heat your home. If you have an older furnace (with an AFUE of about 60%), you could save up to 60% on your heating bills by replacing it with a new high-efficiency furnace. So the cost to replace your old, inefficient furnace is paid back through lower utility bills.
If you live in a cold climate, you could see a payback in a few short years. If you live in a moderate climate, it might make more sense to purchase a mid-efficiency furnace. (Of course, after the payback, you continue to save on your energy bills for the life of the system.)
Efficiency - Heat Pumps and Air Conditioners
Cooling efficiency for air conditioners and heat pumps is indicated by a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating, which tells you how efficiently a unit uses electricity. The higher the number, the greater the efficiency.
The typical SEER rating of units manufactured prior to 1992 is about 6.0. In 1992, the government established the minimum cooling efficiency standard for units installed in new homes at 10.0 SEER. High-efficiency units have a SEER of at least 12.0; the maximum available is about 17.
Heat pumps also have heating efficiency ratings, indicated as an HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor). In general, the higher the HSPF rating, the less electricity the unit will use to heat your home.
The 1992 government minimum heating efficiency standards for new heat pumps is 6.8 HSPF. Most heat pumps manufactured before 1992 have HSPF ratings below 5.0. Today, an HSPF of 7.5 or higher is considered "high-efficiency"; the maximum available is 10.0. (If you want to get real technical, the actual heating efficiency of air-source heat pumps is well over 100%, because they "steal" heat energy from the outside air - instead of using just electricity - to heat your home. So you get much more out of them than you put in.)
Sound Levels - Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps
There's a good chance you won't ever think about the sound level of your air conditioner or heat pump ... until, that is, you try to enjoy a quiet conversation with some friends in your back yard. Sometimes noise from condensing (outdoor) units even interferes with your peace and quiet indoors, so it's a factor you should at least look at when you're comparing different models.
The sound level of outdoor units is measured in bels (similar to decibels), on a scale from 0 (barely perceptible sound) to 13 (the threshold of pain). Most air conditioners and heat pumps operate at 8 to 9 bels; some units' ratings are as low as 6.8. That may not sound like a wide range, but consider this: 9 bels sounds 10 times louder than 8 bels. That means one 9-bel air conditioner is as loud as 10 units rated at 8 bels. So we think taking the time to compare bel ratings is pretty sound advice.
Sound Levels - Furnaces
There isn't a standard sound rating system for furnaces like the bel system for condensing units, so it's difficult to compare models.
However, models that have two-speed or variable-speed operation typically also offer lower operating sound levels, because there is less noise from the blower motor and from air turbulence at lower speeds. Bryant's variable-capacity models even have a "ramp-up" feature that gradually introduces warm air into your ducts, helping prevent the "creaking" noises that come from ducts expanding and contracting.
Since two-speed and variable-capacity models normally run on "low" speed up to 90% of the time, you'll find they're a sound solution when you want to enjoy peace and quiet.
Comfort - furnaces
For furnaces, the same features of multi-capacity models that provide lower sound levels also enhance your comfort. By operating on low speed up to 90% of the time, two-speed furnaces run for longer periods of time than single-speed furnaces. That means fewer on/off cycles, fewer drafts (from the blower kicking on) and much smaller temperature swings only one or two degrees instead of the four-degree swings common with single-speed furnaces. Plus, better air circulation helps prevent air "stratification" - warm air rising to the ceiling and cold air settling on the floor. In short, you get consistent, even heat throughout your home.
Variable-capacity furnaces also offer "smart" motors than can monitor your home's comfort needs and automatically adjust the volume and speed of air to provide the greatest comfort and the most efficient heating or cooling. They provide the ultimate combination of comfort, efficiency and quiet performance.
Comfort - Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps
Some air conditioners and heat pumps offer additional features that provide greater comfort. Two-speed units can run on low speed (using 50% of the energy) up to 80% of the time, so they offer the same benefits as multi-capacity furnaces - fewer on/off cycles, fewer drafts and much smaller temperature swings. You also get better air circulation, for even, consistent cooling and/or heating throughout your home. Plus, if you purchase a multi-speed or variable-capacity furnace or fan coil with your unit, you will enhance both the comfort and the efficiency of your air conditioning or heat pump system even further.
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When you buy a new car, the quality of it helps determine how well it will perform and for how long. A heating and cooling system is really no different. Purchasing a brand name, like Bryant, that has a reputation for quality and reliability can save you headaches and extra expense down the road. Ask us about Bryant's reputation for quality and its record for reliable performance.
Efficiency Ratings
Make sure you ask your dealer about the efficiency rating for the furnace, heat pump or air conditioner. It will tell you how efficiently the unit uses fuel(gas, oil or electricity). Furnace efficiency is measured as AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency), and ratings range from 78% to about 96.6%. Furnaces with AFUE ratings from 78% to 80% are considered mid-efficiency; ones with AFUE ratings above 90% are considered high-efficiency.
Air conditioners and heat pumps have cooling efficiency ratings from 10 to 17 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). Heat pumps also have heating efficiency ratings from 6.8 to about 10 HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor). High-efficiency units have efficiencies of 12 SEER and 7.5 HSPF or above.
One other point to keep in mind is that your heat pump or air conditioner is a "split system," which means that there is an outdoor unit (condenser) and an indoor unit (evaporator coil). If you're replacing an existing system, both units should be replaced to make sure your new condensing unit gives you optimal performance, efficiency and comfort.
In general, the higher the efficiency of the unit, the more it will cost but the less fuel it will use to heat or cool your home. So the cost to replace your old, inefficient unit (or to move up to a higher efficiency model) is paid back through lower utility bills.
Sound Ratings
There's a good chance you won't ever think about the sound level of your air conditioner or heat pump ... until, that is, you try to enjoy a quiet conversation with some friends in your back yard. Sometimes noise from condensing (outdoor) units even interferes with your peace and quiet indoors, so it's a factor you should at least look at when you're comparing different models.
The sound level of outdoor units is measured in bels (similar to decibels), on a scale from 0 (barely perceptible sound) to 13 (the threshold of pain). Most air conditioners and heat pumps operate at 8 to 9 bels; some units' ratings are as low as 6.8. That may not sound like a wide range, but consider this: 9 bels sounds 10 times louder than 8 bels. That means one 9-bel air conditioner is as loud as 10 units rated at 8 bels. So we think taking the time to compare bel ratings is pretty sound advice.
Comfort Features
Some furnaces, heat pumps and air conditioners offer additional features that provide greater comfort (as well as additional energy savings). Two-speed units can run on low speed up to 80% of the time, and offer fewer drafts, smaller temperature swings, and better air circulation for more consistent heating or cooling throughout your home.
Variable-capacity furnaces provide even more added comfort features for the ultimate combination of comfort, efficiency and quiet performance. They can also increase the efficiency rating of your central air conditioning system and offer you added energy savings when you use continuous fan operation in any season.
Warranties
For your peace of mind, be sure to ask your dealer about the manufacturer's warranty that comes with your new heating and cooling system. You should particularly ask about the length of time your equipment is covered and what specific components are included under the warranty. Additional extended warranties may also be available from the manufacturer or directly from your dealer.
You may also want to ask your dealer about the availability of service agreements and maintenance agreements, two ways to keep your equipment in peak operating condition and provide insurance against unforeseen repair costs.
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With the proper maintenance and care, your Bryant equipment will operate economically and dependably. There are a few simple, routine maintenance operations you can do to help ensure the best performance and comfort from your system.
Before you perform any kind of maintenance, consider these important safety precautions.
1. Disconnect all electrical power to the unit before removing access panels to perform maintenance. Please note that there may be more than one power connection switch
2. Although Bryant takes special care to prevent sharp edges in the construction of our equipment, it's best to be very careful when you handle parts or reach into units.
Routine Maintenance
Check the air filter in your furnace or fan coil every 3 to 4 weeks. A dirty filter will cause excessive strain on your furnace, air conditioner or heat pump. Replace your filter when necessary, or clean it if you have the reusable type. (If you have a reusable filter, make sure it's completely dry before you re-install it.) The prefilter and collection cells of an electronic air cleaner should be cleaned at least two or three times per year.
Clean dust off of your indoor coil. With a vacuum cleaner and soft-brush attachment, you can remove any dust from the top and underside of the coil. Make sure you only do this when the coil is dry. If you can't get the coil clean this way, call your dealer for service.
Keep your outdoor condensing unit free of debris. If you keep grass clippings, leaves, shrubbery and debris away from your outdoor unit, it should only require minimal care to operate properly. Check the base pan (under the unit) occasionally and remove debris, to help the unit drain correctly.
If the outdoor coil becomes dirty, use a brush or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to clean the surface. To clean dirt that is deep in the coil, contact your dealer.
Take special care of outdoor condensing units in ocean environments. If your unit is located near a sea coast, you can help preserve its optimal condition with a little extra care. Ocean mist and sea breezes carry salt, which is corrosive to most metals. Although new Bryant units are made out of galvanized metal and are protected by top-grade paint, you can add life to your unit by washing all exposed surfaces and the coil approximately every three months. (Ask your installing contractor about the appropriate interval in your area.)
Make sure your outdoor unit stays in a level position. If the support for your split-system outdoor unit shifts or settles and the unit is no longer level, re-level it promptly to make sure moisture drains properly out of the unit. If you notice that water or ice collects beneath the unit, arrange for it to be drained away from the equipment.
Inspect your furnace's combustion area and vent system before each heating season. If you find dirt, soot or rust, your system may not operate properly or at its peak efficiency. Call your servicing dealer and do not operate your furnace until it is professionally inspected and/or repaired.
Have oil-fired boilers inspected annually. Call your servicing dealer before each heating season to replace your oil filter cartridge and conduct a thorough inspection of the unit's operation.
Clean your humidifier at the beginning of every heating season. Review your owner's manual for the proper procedure to clean the external and internal components of your unit. The evaporator pad should also be replaced before each heating season. If the water in your area is hard or has high mineral content, you may need to clean or service your humidifier more frequently.
Clean the core and air filters on a ventilator at least every three months. You can vacuum the core of an energy recovery ventilator as long as it is dry and the outdoor temperature is between 60 F (16 C) and 75 F (24 C). Heat recovery ventilator cores can be soaked for three hours in a solution of warm water and mild soap and then rinsed. Ventilator air filters are washable: just use a vacuum to remove the heaviest accumulation of dust, and then wash them in lukewarm water. Replace them after they are completely dry.
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 Terms like SEER, AFUE and HSPF are commonly used to describe efficiency ratings in the indoor weather industry. Offering indoor weather equipment that ranges from the minimum industry requirements to the world's most totally energy efficient, your indoor weather expert can help you choose the indoor weather equipment that's right for you.
AFUE- (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) is the standard measurement of efficiency for gas and oil-fired furnaces. Given in percentages, this number tells you how much of your fuel is used to heat your home and how much fuel is simply wasted. The higher the AFUE rating, the greater the efficiency. Bryant offers a full line of furnaces with AFUE ratings ranging from the minimum industry requirement of 78% to more than 96%.
SEER- (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is the measure of efficiency by which the cooling process of air conditioners and heat pumps is rated. The higher the SEER number, the greater the efficiency, which translates into greater energy savings. Today, U.S. regulatory agencies require all new models to have a 10.0 SEER rating or better. Bryant's full line of air conditioners offers SEER ratings of 10.0 to 16.1.
HSPF- (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) is the efficiency measurement used to gauge the efficiency of the heating mode of heat pumps. Again, the higher the number, the greater the efficiency. Today's models are required to have a 6.8 HSPF. Bryant offers heat pumps with HSPF ratings ranging from 6.8 to 9.4.
Bels- Bels is the rating system by which sound is measured. The bels scale is a logarithmic scale like the Richter scale...even a small difference in rating can mean a significant difference in actual sound. The higher the number, the greater the noise level. A diesel truck 10 feet away is rated at 9.2 bels. The sound of a refrigerator running is rated at 7.0 bels. Check out Bryant against the competition. You and your neighbors will be happy to hear the Bryant sound difference.
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There’s a New Minimum Efficiency for 2006
Like many consumer products that use energy, air conditioners and heat pumps are manufactured to meet or exceed minimum efficiency standards set by the U.S. Department of Energy. For nearly a decade, that minimum has been 10 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). On January 23, 2006, the minimum will jump to 13 SEER, a 30% increase over the current standard.
Who will this affect?
The 13 SEER minimum applies to everyone - consumers, your local HVAC dealer and all manufacturers of air conditioners and heat pumps. However, it only applies to new equipment manufactured on or after January 23, 2006. In other words, you can continue to use your current system indefinitely, even if it operates below 13 SEER. However, if you own an older system that often needs repair, or if it is simply time to replace your current system, purchasing a 13 SEER model now will give you two advantages:
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You'll start saving money on your monthly utility bills with a newer, more energy efficient system.
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You'll be able to make the switch at today's costs instead of tomorrow's.
What does it mean to me?
For many homeowners, a 13 SEER air conditioner or heat pump will represent money saved on each month's electric bill. Exactly how much you can save will depend on the efficiency of your current system.
Here's a comparison:
13 SEER Efficiency
Actual savings will depend on the age, efficiency and condition of the unit being replaced, but for anyone currently considering a new air conditioner or heat pump, it makes a lot of sense to start saving now with a 13 SEER product.
Enhanced Comfort and Reliability
Looking at currently available products that meet the 13 SEER minimum, Bryant's Evolution™ System and Preferred™ Series air conditioners and heat pumps can actually deliver up to 18 SEER efficiency. In addition to saving money, these products are quieter than older, less efficient models to create a more relaxed home atmosphere. Some of these models have been tested at 69 decibels, which is quieter than an average running refrigerator. In addition, these products use environmentally sound Puron® refrigerant and also feature built-in reliability features for lasting performance.
Your Refrigerant is Due for a Change, Too.
Another change you need to be aware of is the phase out of R-22, the refrigerant most commonly used in today’s air conditioners and heat pumps. By 2010, all new air conditioners and heat pumps will be required to use "environmentally sound" refrigerant, such as Puron®. This phase out has been mandated in an effort to help protect the Earth’s ozone layer. We’ve seen this before. In the late 1980s, environmental concerns led to a total phase out of R-12 in automotive air conditioners. If you owned a vehicle during that time, you may have experienced first-hand the rapidly rising costs of R-12, or the expense of upgrading to newer technology. By making the change to Puron refrigerant now, you can protect yourself from the potentially higher future costs of servicing an air conditioner or heat pump that uses R-22.
2006 Efficiency Change
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Any new system manufactured on or after January 23, 2006, will
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Purchasing a 13 SEER system now, at today’s prices, will allow
2010 Refrigerant Change
Bryant Leads the Way
In 1996, Bryant was the first to offer residential air conditioners and heat pumps using environmentally sound Puron refrigerant. Today, we offer the most comprehensive line of products designed to meet tomorrow’s standards
To learn more about the 2006 13 SEER efficiency mandate, visit www.energy.gov.
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Besides the obvious advantage of having worry-free performance and comfort for years, Bryant extended warranties offer several other important advantages:
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You'll avoid the inconvenience of unexpected repair bills
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You'll be assured that any necessary repair work will be completed by a well-trained Bryant service technician.
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Your equipment's original Bryant parts will be replaced only with genuine Bryant parts
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Your extended warranty can actually increase the value of your home, because it is transferable to subsequent owners as long as the equipment remains in its original configuration at its original installation site
When it comes to safeguarding your comfort - and your investment - choose one or several of these extended warranties. You'll like the added comfort of knowing we've got you covered.
Combined with the standard one-year warranty included on selected equipment, Bryant offers a variety of extended warranties designed to give you additional years of equipment coverage on your investment.
From the time your Bryant unit or system is installed, you will be protected financially in the unlikely event your equipment were to need repairs during the years ahead. If there's ever a problem, give us a call and relax knowing that your repair costs will be reduced or even completely eliminated, depending on the coverage you choose.
Several Parts & Labor and Parts Only Warranties are available to help you achieve this affordable peace of mind protection. We can provide you with more details on any of these warranty options:
Parts & Labor*
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2nd Trough 5th Year Parts & Labor
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2nd Through 10th Year Parts & Labor
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6th Through 10th Year Parts & Labor**
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2nd Through 5th Year Compressor Labor Only
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2nd Through 10th Year Compressor Labor Only
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Manufactured Housing 1st Year Labor
Parts Only*
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2nd Through 5th Year Parts Only
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2nd Through 10th Year Parts Only
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6th Through 10th Year Parts Only**
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6th Through 10th Year Compressor Parts
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Through 20th Year Heat Exchanger
Keep in mind that regular maintenance and overtime rates are not included as part of the extended warranties. Ask your installing Bryant dealer about maintenance agreements to ensure that your home comfort system is properly cared for. Routine maintenance, such as cleaning and/or changing the air filters as needed and keeping the indoor and outdoor coils clean, will help keep you system running at peak efficiency.
In addition to providing you with worry-free comfort, signing up for our extended warranties takes only a few minutes of your time. When you purchase an eligible Bryant product, we'll talk to you about the options available, the specifics of the program, and answer any questions you may have.
Once you've decided to take advantage of the plan, we'll complete the paperwork and register your warranty with Bryant. You will then be sent a copy of the extended warranty. It's that simple!
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How often do I change my furnace filter?
A dirty air filter can cause big problems on a furnace heating exchanger and furnace blower motor. A heat exchanger is like your car engine if you don’t have enough air (antifreeze) removing heat off the surface it runs too hot in the winter. If you have air conditioning a dirty filter can cause the “A” coil that circulates freon located on top of the furnace to freeze in the summer. A dirty air filter can also cause the furnace blower motor to pull more electricity and over heat as well. My advice would be to change the furnace filter at least once every 4 to 6 weeks during heating season and for air conditioning once a month.
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What kind of filter do you recommend?
In the winter you can use any kind for heat EZ flow, high efficiency or pleated (accordion type) In the summer for air conditioning I only recommend EZ flow or flat filters. The “A” coil is very easy to frost and needs as much air as the blower motor can push, a high efficiency or pleated filter will obstruct the air flow and cause frosting and eventually freeze in a matter of days to were you have solid block of ice sitting on your furnace.
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What Do I do if the coil freezes up?
If in the summertime you notice water on the floor around the furnace and when the air conditioning is on there is no air coming out of the vents you most likely have a frozen coil. If you filter is the wrong kind or dirty replace it. Then go to the thermostat and switch cool to off and auto to fan. What this does is run your fan continually without the air conditioning and allows the “A” coil to thaw out (it usually takes 24 hrs to thaw)
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Is it a good Idea to run the fan on thermostat all
the time to circulate air? I recommend for homes in summertime to run the fan all the time to circulate the air conditioned air this will keep a more constant temp throughout the house. With homes with vents on the floor it helps to keep the air from stratification (a blanket of hot air on the ceiling and cold air on the floor). Ceiling fans are important too in summer turn them clockwise in winter counter clockwise. You air conditioning will come on and off by the thermostat but the fan will run constant.
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Why did my furnace blower motor go out in just a couple years from purchase?
If you have both a heating and air conditioning system and the thermostat is set on auto your blower motor turns on and off every time it calls for heat or cool.
The amount of strain on the motor windings is much higher than if the fan is allowed to just run continually. Ex: If a light bulb is turned on and off continually it will burnout faster than if it was just left on.
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Why should I replace my existing heating or air conditioning system?
You may wish to consider replacing your air conditioning or heating system if it is old, inefficient or in need of repair. Today's systems are as much as 60% more efficient than those systems manufactured as little as ten years ago. In addition, if not properly maintained, wear and tear on a system can reduce the actual or realized efficiency of the system. If you are concerned about utility bills or are faced with an expensive repair, you may want to consider replacing your system rather than enduring another costly season or paying to replace an expensive component. The utility cost savings of a new unit may provide an attractive return on your investment. If you plan on financing the purchase, the monthly savings on your utility bill should be considered when determining the actual monthly cost of replacing a system. The offsetting savings may permit you to purchase a more efficient system.
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How expensive are air conditioning and heat pump systems?
Many factors affect the cost of a heating or air conditioning system, including the size of your home, the type and condition of the ductwork installed and accessories you might need such as a thermostat or an electronic air cleaner. We have a complete range of systems and accessories available to meet all your needs, including your financial ones! Your local dealer will be happy to assist you in finding the right system to meet not only your comfort needs but also your household budget.
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How do I select the right heating/cooling system?
First, make sure the unit is properly sized. H&A will provide a load calculation for your home. Also ask the dealer to provide an energy analysis to determine operating cost. Next, consider any comfort issues in the home. Some products can reduce air stratification and uneven temperatures from room to room. If you have allergies, an indoor unit with an ECM motor will allow you to circulate the air in your home continuously while filtering the air for about the same cost as operating a standard light bulb. Finally, know your budget parameters and the efficiency of the system being proposed. Does the system offer a payback? In other words, will the monthly savings over time offset the cost of the new unit or efficiency option being considered?
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What is involved in replacing an old system?
Aside from the placement of the new equipment, your York dealer will inspect several items and make a determination of whether or not these items need to be supplied or replaced. Some of the items include: ductwork, insulation, refrigerant piping, electrical service, wiring, thermostat, condensate piping, flue piping, flue terminations, chimney liner, slabs, filter, driers, registers, grills, drain pans and evaporator coil.
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What is involved in installing a new system?
If a system is being added to the home for the first time, most of the items noted in the previous question and answer may be required to install the new system. Besides the equipment, the most significant component is ductwork. The ductwork can be either metal or fiberglass ductwork. The ductwork needs to be properly sized to deliver the right amount of air to each room. The ductwork consists of supply and return ductwork. The supply duct is attached to the outlet of the furnace or air handler and delivers air to individual zones in your home. H&A will determine the size of the ductwork going into a space by the amount of air that needs to be delivered to the space.
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How long can I expect a new system to last?
If you have a qualified technician perform regular preventative maintenance and service suggested for your unit, industry averages suggest that an air conditioner should last 12-15 years (sea coast applications may be less) and a gas furnace should last as many as 20-25 years.
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What are some preventative maintenance things I should be aware of?
With the proper attention, heating and cooling systems can keep you comfortable year-round. Heat pumps and oil-fired furnaces and boilers need a yearly professional tune-up. Gas-fired equipment, on the other hand, burns cleaner and can be serviced every other year. A close inspection will uncover leaks, soot, rust, rot, corroded electrical contacts and frayed wires. In furnace (forced-air) and boiler (hot-water) systems, the inspection should also cover the chimney, ductwork or pipes, dampers or valves, blower or pump, registers or radiators, the fuel line and the gas meter or oil tank-as well as every part of the furnace or boiler itself.
Next, the system should be run through a full heating cycle to ensure that it has plenty of combustion air and chimney draft. Finally, cleaning the burner and heat exchanger to remove soot and other gunk will prevent such buildup from impeding smooth operation. For the burner, efficiency hinges on adjusting the flame to the right size and color, adjusting the flow of gas or changing the fuel filter in an oil-fired system. A check of the heat pump should include an inspection of the compressor, fan, indoor and outdoor coils and refrigerant lines. Indoor and outdoor coils should be cleaned, and the refrigerant pressure should be checked.
Blower
Tuning up the distribution side of a forced-air system starts with the blower. The axle should be lubricated; blades cleaned and lower motor checked to insure the unit isn't being overloaded. The fan belt should be adjusted so it deflects no more than an inch when pressed. Every accessible joint in the ductwork should be sealed with mastic or UL-approved duct tapes. Any ducts that run outside the heated space should be insulated. On a hot-water system, the expansion tank should be drained, the circulating pump cleaned and lubricated and air bled out of the radiators.
Thermostat
While thermostats rarely fail outright, they can degrade over time as mechanical parts stick or lose their calibration. Older units will send faulty signals if they've been knocked out of level or have dirty switches. To recalibrate an older unit, use a wrench to adjust the nut on the back of the mercury switch until it turns the system on and, using a room thermometer, set it to the correct temperature. Modern electronic thermostats, sealed at the factory to keep out dust and grime, rarely need adjusting. However, whether your thermostat is old or young, the hole where the thermostat wire comes through the wall needs to be caulked or a draft could trick it into thinking the room is warmer or colder than it really is.
Humidifier
A neglected in-duct humidifier can breed mildew and bacteria, not to mention add too much moisture to a house. A common mistake with humidifiers is leaving them on after the heating season ends. Don't forget to pull the plug, shut the water valve and drain the unit. A unit with a water reservoir should be drained and cleaned with white vinegar, a mix of one part chlorine bleach to eight parts water or muriatic acid. Mist-type humidifiers also require regular cleaning to remove mineral deposits.
Filters
Most houses with forced-air furnaces have a standard furnace filter made from loosely woven spun-glass fibers designed to keep it and its ductwork clean. Unfortunately, they don't improve indoor air quality. That takes a media filter, which sits in between the main return duct and the blower cabinet. Made of a deeply pleated, paper-like material, media filters are at least seven times better than a standard filter at removing dust and other particles. An upgrade to a pleated media filter will cleanse the air of everything from insecticide dust to flu viruses. Compressed, media filters are usually no wider than six inches, but the pleated material can cover up to 75 square feet when stretched out. This increased area of filtration accounts for the filter's long life, which can exceed two years. The only drawback to a media filter is its tight weave, which can restrict a furnace's ability to blow air through the house. To insure a steady, strong airflow through the house, choose a filter that matches your blower's capacity.
Duct Cleaning
Inside the walls and floors of 80 percent of American homes run a maze of heating and air conditioning ducts that connect each room to the furnace. As the supply ducts blow air into the rooms, return ducts inhale airborne dust and suck it back into the blower. Add moisture to this mixture and you've got a breeding ground for allergy-inducing molds, mites and bacteria. Many filters commonly used today can't keep dust and debris from streaming into the air and over time sizable accumulations can form-think dust bunnies, but bigger. To find out if your ducts need cleaning, pull off some supply and return registers and take a look. If a new furnace is being installed, you should probably invest in a duct cleaning at the same time, because chances are the new blower will be more powerful than the old one and will stir up a lot of dust. Professional duct cleaners tout such benefits as cleaner indoor air, longer equipment life and lower energy costs. Clean HVAC systems can also perform more efficiently, which may decrease energy costs, and last longer, reducing the need for costly replacement or repairs. Cleaning has little effect on air quality, primarily because most indoor dust drifts in from the outdoors. But it does get rid of the stuff that mold and bacteria grow on, and that means less of it gets airborne, a boon to allergy sufferers.
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Should I change my indoor coil?
When replacing your air conditioner or heat pump, the answer is most likely yes. The efficiency ratings that are advertised for an air conditioner or heat pump are based on the performance as part of a matched system. If only the outdoor portion is changed, the efficiency and savings could be less than that of a matched system.
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Where do I get replacement parts?
Contact your product dealer or call us for help obtaining replacement parts.
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What is covered in my warranty?
Most products come with a written limited warranty on parts. This warranty usually states that a replacement part will be furnished for any part of the product that fails in normal use and service during the applicable warranty period specified in accordance with the warranty's terms. We can review with you the warranty periods for the products you own or select.
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