Common HVAC FAQs
At Crowther Heating and Air Conditioning, we’ve been serving Virginia’s Northern Neck since 1954. During that time, we’ve fielded a lot of questions from our customers about keeping their HVAC systems in shape. Below are answers to some of the most common HVAC FAQ we hear.
How Long Does a Furnace Last?
Depending on the kind of furnace you have, you can expect it to last anywhere from 15 – 30 years. Learn more about the average lifespans of different types of furnaces and whether it makes sense to repair or replace yours. More…
How Long Do AC Units Last?
The average lifespan of an AC unit varies wildly depending on the style of the unit. Some only last a handful of years while others will keep you cool for decades. Learn about the lifespans of each style of unit, how to decide between repairs and replacements, and the average cost of new units. More…
How Can I Tell if There is Carbon Monoxide in My Home?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be emitted from many household appliances. This is typically caused by a malfunction that prevents this dangerous gas from burning away entirely. The best way to identify the presence of carbon monoxide (CO) in your home is with a carbon monoxide detector. Left undetected, this gas can cause harmful health effects and even death to people in the home.
Do Indoor and Outdoor AC Units Need to be Replaced Together?
The answer is: it depends. If your indoor or outdoor unit needs to be replaced because of damage, but its accompanying unit is still in good condition, chances are you will not need to replace both at the same time. However, just because a mismatched set of units work together, doesn’t mean that they are operating at the greatest efficiency. In many cases, it is ideal to replace both units at the same time.
Why Should I Zone My House?
Zoning systems are an increasingly popular HVAC choice for homeowners due to their convenience, improved comfort, and energy efficiency. HVAC zoning systems separate the home into different parts which can be controlled with individual thermostats. Not only does this account for temperature-affecting factors like heat rise and sunny rooms, it also allows family members to set different temperatures for their favored areas of the home.
Can Dry Air at Home Affect My Health?
Yes. Dry air in the home, caused by low humidity levels, can agitate or cause respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and sinusitis. Dry air can also cause dry or itchy eyes and skin. Dry air can be especially problematic for those who are susceptible to eczema flare ups. The best solution for dry air at home may be to bring individual humidifying units into the home or to install a whole-house humidifier.
What’s the Best Way to Save on Energy Costs?
There are many different ways to cut down your energy bill at home; having an HVAC system that runs efficiently is often an important part of the puzzle. An HVAC system that is disadvantaged by leaks, zoning issues, or clogs is likely to use more energy to produce weaker overall effects. Speaking to a qualified HVAC technician about the state of your system can help you find solutions that work for your home.
How Often Does My HVAC System Need to be Maintained?
At a minimum, your HVAC system should be inspected, cleaned, and serviced every year. For even better results, calling a specialist for service twice per year during ‘shoulder seasons’ (fall and spring) can help keep your system operating at a high level of efficiency. Regular maintenance not only keeps your system functioning, it can also help you avoid costly repairs or early replacement.
Isn’t Air Pollution an Outdoor Issue?
Many people hear ‘air pollution’ and think of atmospheric contaminants like pollen and industrial gas, but it’s far from an outdoors-only problem! Your home is where you spend most of your time, and it is likely to have two to five times as much pollution as the outdoor environment around you (Source: EPA.gov). Having and maintaining an indoor filtration system is a must, especially for people with sensitive respiratory systems and allergies.
What Can I Do if I Have an Emergency Outside Business Hours?
Your HVAC system plays an important role in keeping your family comfortable and safe at home—especially during the hottest days of summer and coldest winter nights. If your heating or cooling system goes out, know that you can always call the Crowther Heating and Air Conditioning for emergency service. Our lines are open 24/7, even on holidays.
What Contributes to Poor Indoor Air Quality at Home?
Having ideal air quality at home means that your family is breathing in safe, clean, and adequately humid air. Indoor air that is not filtered properly can contain any number of different contaminants, including allergens, mold spores, bacteria, and dust. Dry air can agitate or cause breathing problems, skin dryness, and even a pervasive sore throat. If your family regularly deals with any issues relating to indoor air pollutants or humidity, it’s time to call an air quality specialist like ours at Crowther Heating and Air Conditioning!