Frequently Asked Questions

Does my cooling and heating system need surge protection?
Probably not. Modern comfort control systems are usually equipped with surge protection. In the event of lighting, however, it’s never a bad idea to turn off your air conditioner and unplug appliances.
How often should I change my air filter?
Check your filter at least monthly and clean and replace as needed. A dirty air filter limits airflow, which can cause the compressor to run longer, cause the heat exchanger to overheat and increase utility bills up to 20 percent or more.
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?
H.S.P.F. stands for Heating Seasonal Performance Factor, and is a measure of a heat pump’s heating performance, not unlike the MPG of an automobile. The minimum required H.S.P.F. rating is 6.8, with some manufacturers producing units with a rating of 10 or higher. The more efficient the system, however, the higher the cost.
What does "SEER" mean?
SEER is an acronym for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and is a measure of the performance of the system, not unlike the MPG of an automobile. The higher the SEER, the better the efficiency. The lowest SEER rating allowed is 14, and some manufacturers produce units with SEER ratings of more than 20. The more efficient the system, however, the higher the cost.
What is a digital setback thermostat?
A digital setback thermostat is a programmable thermostat designed for people with fixed schedules that take them away from their homes for periods of time. If you leave for work at 8:00 a.m. each weekday and return at 5:00 p.m., for example, you can program a digital setback thermostat to automatically raise the temperature in your home to save on power while you’re out.
What is involved in replacing an old cooling and heating system?
We’ll inspect several key areas—including ductwork, insulation, refrigerant piping, electrical service, wiring, thermostat, condensate piping, and more—and determine what is salvageable and what is not.
What percentage of my utility bill is spent on cooling and heating?
A myriad of cooling and heating factors will alter the percentage of power used by your air conditioning system relative to other electric appliances in your home. However, on average, about 44 percent is typical.
When is the time to replace an A/C system versus repairing it?
The average lifespan for a high-quality cooling and heating system is 8 to 12 years, depending on amount of use, climate in which it operates, and whether or not the system received regular preventive maintenance.

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 average lifespan for a high-quality cooling and heating system is 8 to 12 years, depending on amount of use, the climate in which it operates, and whether or not the system received regular preventive maintenance.

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.

What does the air handler do?
The air handler circulates the air conditioned by the cooling and heating unit and is usually where filtration and dehumidification takes place.
Why isn't a bigger air conditioner better for cooling?
An air conditioner that is too large for the area it is meant to cool performs less efficiently and effectively than a smaller, properly-sized unit, because the oversized unit will tend to run more often for shorter lengths of time, which is less effective at removing humidity. Longer run times allow the system to maintain a more constant room temperature.