How often should you be changing your filter?
At minimum, a standard 1” filter needs to be changed every 90 days/ 3 Months. It is recommended that a filter is checked monthly. Homes with indoor pets, or on-going construction projects may need to be checked and changed more frequently than manufacturers recommendation. Some homes and customers have opted for filter racks that give the units the ability to have 4” or 5” filters, which are required to be changed every 6 months to a year.
What tasks are completed during routine preventative maintenance?
At FoxFire you can expect you maintenance technician to: Clean and Adjust Burner Assembly, Test ignition assembly, Test Heat Exchanger Elements, Monitor Refrigerant levels, Test Starting Capabilities, Test safety controls and devices, Clean or replace filters (price includes standard 1″ filters), Test and adjust blower components, Measure for correct airflow, Inspect/Tighten electrical connections, Verify Amps draws on all motors and compressor, Clean condensate drain, and Inspect indoor and outdoor coils
How often should maintenance be done on my HVAC unit? And when?
Preventative maintenance should be done twice a year on your HVAC unit, many manufacturers require maintenance honor parts or labor warranties. Our recommendation is to have a visit in the spring to test your cooling equipment before heavy use in the summer months, and again in the fall before winter begins.
How can I improve my system’s efficiency?
- Schedule regular maintenance with a licensed HVAC contractor
- Replacing your air filters every 1-3 months
- Seal ductwork and ensure the ducts are properly insulated
- Upgrade to a programmable or a smart thermostat
- Consider a new unit if your unit is over 15 years old
What is the average lifespan of a system? When should you start considering replacement?
Different types of systems all have different average lifespans. On average, furnaces have a lifespan of 15-20 years, while heat pumps and air conditioners last 10-15 years on average. It is our professional recommendation to consider and begin budgeting if your unit is over 10 years old, out of manufacturer’s warranty, and you are experiencing on-going issues and the unit is needing repairs often.
How do you size an HVAC system for your home?
There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to HVAC. That’s why at FoxFire,. we send an expert comfort advisor to your home at no charge, to ensure your unit will be sized properly to provide you and yours comfort for many years to come. Sizing of a unit considers many other factors than just the size of your home; It is important to consider the climate in the area of the home, insulation, the amount of windows and natural light in the home, and the number of occupants residing in the home.
What can happen to an HVAC system to increase my utility bill?
When an issue arises with your HVAC, it is not uncommon to see a drastic increase in your electric or gas bill. Common causes include: dirty or clogged filters causing excessive strain on your unit trying to move air, poor insulation or air escaping through damaged/improperly sealed ductwork, incorrect thermostat settings, or a major component failure causing your unit to continue to operate in emergency or auxiliary heat.
Why is indoor air quality (IAQ) important?
Indoor air quality impacts various aspects of your life daily and affects your health, comfort, and productivity. Poor indoor air quality can lead to allergies, and respiratory issues. Solutions like air purifiers, duct cleaning, ventilation systems, and humidity control can all improve homes that are experiencing air quality issues.