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Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for in a new system?
You should look for the most efficient system for your apartment, condo, vacation home or residence. Consult a specially-trained professional before you make any decisions regarding a new system. Air Handlers OBX offers a free consultation and quote. Call us today!
What are efficiency ratings and what should I know before I choose a new system?
We're all looking to save a few dollars where we can these days and choosing the right heating and cooling system can you save you hundreds of dollars per year.
There are two efficiency ratings pertinent to any heating and cooling system:
What does a heat pump do? How often should I plan to replace it?
Heat pumps suck in the air from the outside during the winter, heat the air and distribute the heated air throughout your home. This process is reversed during the summer months. You can expect your heat pump to last an average of 7-10 years.
In cold weather, I see ice build up on my outdoor unit. Should I be concerned?
Although it doesn't happen very often here on the Outer Banks extremely cold/freezing conditions can cause ice to build up on your outside unit. This is normal. Your system has a built in defrost which will kick in and melt the ice build up. During the defrost process you might notice water vapor (looks like smoke) – again, this is normal. However, if the majority of the ice build up has not been removed by the auto-defrost mode in 2 hours, call one of our Service Professionals. Switch thermostat to the Emergency Heat setting (backup heat source) and call your one of our Service Professionals for further advice or if necessary a service call.
For maximum efficiency at what temperature should I set my thermostat?
Unrestricted airflow is necessary for heat pumps to work properly. So, we suggest that you keep all registers open. Restriction of air movement will make your system work harder and therefore possibly damage your system.
Should my outside unit be running constantly? I notice this more during the hot summer months. Should I be concerned?
Unfortunately, you can expect your system to run fairly constantly during the hot summer months here on the Outer Banks. For maximum efficiency, check out our tips on controlling your heating and cooling costs.
What are some ways to help control my heating and cooling costs?
A comfort Assured Dealer provides and services only one brand of equipment. Air Handlers OBX prides itself on the ability to maintain, install and service a variety of name brand equipment.
You should look for the most efficient system for your apartment, condo, vacation home or residence. Consult a specially-trained professional before you make any decisions regarding a new system. Air Handlers OBX offers a free consultation and quote. Call us today!
What are efficiency ratings and what should I know before I choose a new system?
We're all looking to save a few dollars where we can these days and choosing the right heating and cooling system can you save you hundreds of dollars per year.
There are two efficiency ratings pertinent to any heating and cooling system:
- SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) – Ratings begin at 13 and measure the units summer operating efficiency
- HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) Ratings begin at 8.6 and measure the units winter operating efficiency
What does a heat pump do? How often should I plan to replace it?
Heat pumps suck in the air from the outside during the winter, heat the air and distribute the heated air throughout your home. This process is reversed during the summer months. You can expect your heat pump to last an average of 7-10 years.
In cold weather, I see ice build up on my outdoor unit. Should I be concerned?
Although it doesn't happen very often here on the Outer Banks extremely cold/freezing conditions can cause ice to build up on your outside unit. This is normal. Your system has a built in defrost which will kick in and melt the ice build up. During the defrost process you might notice water vapor (looks like smoke) – again, this is normal. However, if the majority of the ice build up has not been removed by the auto-defrost mode in 2 hours, call one of our Service Professionals. Switch thermostat to the Emergency Heat setting (backup heat source) and call your one of our Service Professionals for further advice or if necessary a service call.
For maximum efficiency at what temperature should I set my thermostat?
- During the summer months – for maximum efficiency keep your thermostat at a setting of 78 or higher. Keep this in mind – for every degree you lower the thermostat; you'll raise your energy use by 3-4%! Try a setting of 85 or higher if you'll be away from your home for a few days or longer. Imaging the energy and money you'll save on your next electric bill!
- During the winter months – Most folks find a comfortable temperature between 68 and 74 degrees. Once you find a comfortable or tolerable temperature, keep your thermostat at that temperature. Raising the temperature (to make it warmer) could cause your backup system to kick on which will in turn raise your energy use. Again, if you'll be away from your home for several days, go ahead and set the thermostat back to 55 degrees, this will keep your house warm enough to prevent any freezing and save on your electric use.
Unrestricted airflow is necessary for heat pumps to work properly. So, we suggest that you keep all registers open. Restriction of air movement will make your system work harder and therefore possibly damage your system.
Should my outside unit be running constantly? I notice this more during the hot summer months. Should I be concerned?
Unfortunately, you can expect your system to run fairly constantly during the hot summer months here on the Outer Banks. For maximum efficiency, check out our tips on controlling your heating and cooling costs.
What are some ways to help control my heating and cooling costs?
- Set your thermostat at a comfortable temperature and leave it there. As stated earlier, a temperature of 78 or higher is a good starting point.
- Turn on ceiling fans (if applicable). Clockwise in winter and counterclockwise in summer.
- Replace air filters on a regular basis. Dirty filters restrict airflow and can cause the system to run harder and longer which increases energy use.
- Shade your home from the sun – consider planting trees and scrubs to shade your home from the sun, especially the hot afternoon sun. Installation of solar control window films, retractable awnings, patio covers and solar window screens are a good choice for immediate savings. You could save as much as 5% on your electric bill!
A comfort Assured Dealer provides and services only one brand of equipment. Air Handlers OBX prides itself on the ability to maintain, install and service a variety of name brand equipment.
Didn't see your question?
Call or email us today and we'll answer it for your right away
252-491-8637
Info@AirHandlersOBX.com
Call or email us today and we'll answer it for your right away
252-491-8637
Info@AirHandlersOBX.com