Frequently Asked Questions
Does my cooling and heating system need surge protection?
How often should I change my air filter?
What are some ways to help control my cooling and heating costs?
- Have the air vents in your home balanced, set the thermostat on as high a temperature as possible while still remaining comfortable, and then leave the two alone. Constant adjustment can eat up a lot of electricity.
- If you’re away from home at certain regular periods throughout the week, invest in a programmable digital setback thermostat that will raise and lower temperatures automatically in relation to when you are home and away from your house.
- Don’t set your thermostat any lower than the desired temperature when you turn on your air conditioner. Cranking down the thermostat will not cool your home any faster and wastes energy.
- Check your air filter at least monthly and clean or replace as needed. A dirty air filter is the No. 1 cause of inefficient operation and high power bills.
- Keep debris and other obstructions well away from the outdoor fan to allow sufficient airflow and maximize efficiency.
What are some ways to keep my home cooling in summer?
- Ceiling fans can help circulate and even out the cool air inside the home.
- Move lamps, televisions, and other warm appliances away from your thermostat.
- Plant trees and shrubs to shade the outside unit, but so as not to obstruct the fan. Shaded air conditioning units more effectively cool and can use as much as 10 percent less electricity.
What does "H.S.P.F." mean?
What does "SEER" mean?
What is a digital setback thermostat?
What is involved in replacing an old cooling and heating system?
What percentage of my utility bill is spent on cooling and heating?
When is the time to replace an A/C system versus repairing it?
The criteria for determining repair or replacement is how much of a repair bill you’re faced with today; how long can you expect before other problems arise based on the age and condition of your system; the cost of a replacement system; and what advances in technology and efficiency have manufacturers made since the installation of your current unit. Today’s systems are as much as 60 percent more efficient than those manufactured just 10 years ago. The savings in efficiency alone might be enough of a return on your investment to replace now instead of enduring another season of costly repairs.
There’s, of course, no absolute right answer, but the experts at John C. Cassidy can help you make an educated, informed decision.
Should I be concerned about indoor air quality?
The criteria for determining repair or replacement are how much of a repair bill you’re faced with today, how long you can expect before other problems arise based on the age and condition of your system, the cost of a replacement system, and whatever advances in technology and efficiency manufacturers have made since the installation of your current unit. Today’s systems are as much as 60 percent more efficient than those manufactured just 10 years ago. The savings in efficiency alone might be enough of a return on your investment to replace now instead of enduring another season of costly repairs.
There is, of course, no absolute right answer, but the experts at John C. Cassidy can help you make an educated, informed decision.