General HVAC FAQs
What does “HVAC” stand for, and what does it include?
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. The term covers all systems that regulate indoor temperature, humidity, and air flow in a building, including furnaces, heat exchangers, air conditioning units, ductwork, vents, and filters. These systems work together to heat and cool your home, as well as to manage circulation and humidity for optimal air quality.
How often should I have my HVAC system serviced?
You should have your HVAC system serviced twice a year: once in the spring and once in the fall. Scheduling these bi-annual tune-ups helps ensure your system is good to go ahead of your summer air conditioning and winter heating needs. It’s also key to maintaining the efficiency, safety, and longevity of your HVAC system.
What are common signs that my HVAC system needs repair or replacement?
- Rising energy bills without a change in usage
- Uneven temperatures or cold/hot spots
- Strange noises (clanking, banging, humming)
- Frequent cycling (turning on/off often)
- System age (15+ years)
- Poor airflow or weak heating/cooling
- Unexplained increase in indoor humidity
How often should I change or clean my filters?
You should change or clean your filters every 1–3 months. This can vary based on filter type or usage (for example, pleated filters usually only need to be changed every 3–6 months), so check your manufacturer’s directions. If you have pets, allergies, smokers, or high dust levels at home, change your filter more frequently.
How do you decide whether to repair or replace a unit?
Consider both the cost of repair and the age and efficiency of the system. If the repair cost is high, the system is old, and/or the efficiency is low, replacement is usually more cost-effective. A useful rule of thumb: if repairs will cost 50% or more of the cost to replace the unit, replacement typically makes more sense.
What efficiency ratings should I look for?
- AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency): Compares how much heat a system delivers to how much energy it consumes. Higher AFUE = more efficiency.
- SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio): Measures the efficiency of an AC system over an entire cooling season. Higher SEER = more efficiency.
- HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor): Measures the efficiency of a heat pump over an entire heating season. Higher HSPF = more efficiency.
Can poor duct design affect HVAC performance?
Yes. Ducts that are improperly sized, leaky, or poorly routed often lead to issues such as pressure loss, uneven heat/cold delivery, energy waste, higher energy bills, and poor indoor air quality.
Do you offer emergency repairs?
Yes, we offer fast and reliable emergency HVAC repairs for problems that occur outside of our normal business hours (7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.). Call us any time of day or night, and we will send out a qualified technician to quickly troubleshoot your issue and get your system working again.
Heating & Furnace FAQs
How long does a furnace typically last?
A furnace will last 15 to 20 years if it is properly maintained. Factors that impact lifespan include frequency of use, sizing and capacity, and quality of the initial installation. You can extend the lifespan of your furnace by changing filters regularly and staying up to date with tune-ups.
When should I replace my furnace rather than repair it?
- The system is approaching or above 15 years old
- It has frequent breakdowns
- Heating bills have jumped significantly
- The repair estimate is 50% or more of the cost to replace
- Efficiency is low
- The system doesn’t align with your home’s needs
Why is my furnace making strange noises?
If your furnace is making strange noises, there may be a problem with its internal components. Different noises indicate different issues: rattling often means loose parts, buzzing suggests an electrical problem, and whistling suggests dirty ducts or filters. If you hear a strange noise, turn your system off and schedule an inspection.
What is AFUE, and why does it matter?
AFUE stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. It compares how much fuel a furnace uses to how much heat it produces. AFUE scores are given as a percentage and are calculated by measuring how much fuel input is converted to usable heat over the course of a year. The higher the percentage, the more efficient the system.
What type of furnace is best for my home?
The right furnace depends on your fuel source (gas, electric, or oil), heating load, energy efficiency goals, budget, and home size. Contact your HVAC company for an on-site assessment to determine the ideal type and model.
How should I prepare my furnace for the winter?
- Check your air filter and replace it if necessary
- Vacuum and wipe down vents
- Check ductwork for leaks
- Test your thermostat on “heat” mode
- Remove clutter around the furnace
- Verify smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly
- Schedule a fall tune-up
Air Conditioning FAQs
Is it bad to run my air conditioner 24/7?
Not necessarily, especially if your system is properly sized and in good working condition. If you keep your system on all the time, set it to a moderate temperature (72–76 degrees Fahrenheit) to minimize system strain and keep your energy bills in check.
Why is my AC blowing warm air?
There are several possible explanations, ranging from clogged air filters and incorrect thermostat settings to refrigerant leaks, compressor failure, a frozen evaporator coil, or blower issues. If the cause isn’t obvious, turn off the system and contact an HVAC company for support.
What is the SEER rating and why is it important?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It measures the energy efficiency of an air conditioning system, specifically the ratio of cooling output to energy consumption over an entire cooling season. A higher SEER indicates better efficiency and lower long-term operating costs.
How do I know when to replace the AC unit?
- The unit is 10 years or older
- It requires frequent repairs
- Its efficiency is very low relative to modern units
- It has weak airflow
- It cools inconsistently
- It’s turning on and off more than it should
- Energy bills have increased
Do I need to service my AC before summer?
Yes. Scheduling an AC tune-up in the spring helps ensure your system is ready for the upcoming season. During a pre-summer inspection, your HVAC technician will check refrigerant levels, clear condensate drains, inspect coils and wiring, and verify system performance ahead of the summer heat.
Why do some rooms stay warmer than others?
A room may run warmer than others due to a duct leak or imbalance, poor insulation, dirty air filters, sun exposure, or an improperly-sized air conditioning unit. Internal devices, such as computers or strong overhead lighting, can also heat up a room.
Hybrid Systems FAQs (Heat Pump + Furnace Combos)
What is a hybrid HVAC system?
A hybrid HVAC system, also known as a dual-fuel system, has both a heat pump and a fuel-burning furnace. It automatically switches between them as needed to maintain proper indoor temperatures with peak efficiency. System changes are based on outdoor air temperatures, which ensures you get exactly as much heating or cooling as you need.
When is the heat pump used vs. the furnace?
A hybrid HVAC system uses the heat pump when the weather is mild or warm and the furnace when the weather is cold. The system switches between these two functions automatically for more effective and efficient heating and cooling.
What are the energy-saving benefits?
The biggest energy-saving benefit of a hybrid HVAC system is reduced fuel usage. A hybrid HVAC relies on an electric heat pump for temperature control during mild or warm weather and only switches to fossil-fuel heating when needed, usually when the outdoor temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
Are hybrid systems more expensive?
Yes, hybrid HVAC systems tend to be more expensive than conventional HVACs due to the cost of equipment and specialized installation. However, operational savings often justify the investment, and while you’ll spend more upfront, you should see a notable decrease in your monthly energy bill.
Is maintenance more complex?
Yes, but only slightly. Both hybrid and conventional HVAC systems require regular inspections, refrigerant checks, and seasonal tuning. Hybrid maintenance may be a bit more involved due to dual energy sources and additional components.
Tankless Water Heater FAQs
How does a tankless water heater differ from a conventional one?
A tankless water heater only heats up water when you need it, while a conventional unit maintains a continuous supply. By supplying hot water on demand, a tankless water heater eliminates standby energy losses and the need for on-site storage.
Are tankless heaters suitable for whole-house use?
Yes, depending on the size of your home and usage patterns, such as flow rate and number of fixtures. Some homes may need multiple tankless units or hybrid units, so bring in an HVAC expert to discuss specifics before you decide.
Do tankless heaters last longer?
Yes. With proper maintenance, a tankless water heater can last 20 years or more, compared to 8 to 12 years for a unit with a tank. Regular tune-ups and a water softener (if you have hard water) can help extend the lifespan further.
What maintenance is required?
Tankless water heaters require annual maintenance, including flushing the system to remove mineral build-up, checking the filters, inspecting burners, and descaling. If you have hard water, your system may require more frequent descaling.
Are there drawbacks?
Yes. Compared to conventional systems, tankless water heaters generally come with higher upfront costs for equipment and installation. You may also need gas supply upgrades to accommodate a tankless system.
Mini-Split (Ductless) FAQs
What is a mini-split (ductless) AC/heat pump?
A mini-split is a multi-part HVAC system that heats and cools without air ducts. Most ductless systems are comprised of two key parts: an outdoor compressor or condenser unit and one or more indoor air-handling units.
When are mini-splits a good choice?
Mini-split units are a good choice for home additions, renovations, or rooms without ductwork for central heating and cooling. They can also work well for zone control if different members of the household prefer different temperatures in their rooms.
Can a mini-split provide heating as well as cooling?
Yes. Look for dual-function systems that run on a heat pump if you want a system that can do both, since this allows the mini-split to output warm or cool air depending on the outside temperature.
Are mini-splits efficient?
Yes. These systems greatly reduce energy waste from duct leakage and produce high-velocity airflow that circulates efficiently throughout the unit. Many also feature variable-speed (inverter) operations, which are much more energy efficient than single-speed systems.
What maintenance do mini-splits require?
Mini-splits require a yearly tune-up to inspect and clean all system components. For optimal performance and air quality, clean or replace the air filters every 4–6 weeks and regularly inspect the outdoor coil and indoor units to ensure they’re free of dust.
Air Quality & Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) FAQs
What is “air quality” and why does it matter?
Air quality refers to how clean the air is in regard to pollutants like smoke, carbon monoxide, dust, soot, and ground-level ozone, all of which can be harmful to breathe. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) can have a major impact on your health, comfort, and HVAC system performance.
What IAQ solutions do you provide?
We provide numerous IAQ solutions, including air purifiers and filters, UV germicidal lamps, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, ventilation systems, and electrostatic filters. Contact us to speak with an expert about your specific concerns.
How can I tell if my indoor air needs improvement?
Common indicators include frequent allergy symptoms, dust build-up, unexplained odors, humidity swings, or a stale smell in sealed rooms. Using fans and regularly opening windows helps keep air circulating and can mitigate these risks.
Do air purifiers really help?
Yes, especially when used with a HEPA-level or high-efficiency filter. That said, they should not be used as a replacement for proper ventilation, so don’t rely on a purifier alone to remove particulates, allergens, and other pollutants from your air.
How often should I change IAQ filters and UV lamps?
A standard IAQ filter should be changed every 1–3 months, while a HEPA-level filter will last 6–12 months. Pets or smokers in the home will shorten filter lifespan. UV lamps are typically changed once per year, but check your manufacturer’s specs to confirm.
Duct Design & Manual J Load Calculation FAQs
What is a Manual J load calculation?
A Manual J load calculation is a standardized method for estimating how much heating and cooling capacity your home needs, measured in BTUs. Developed by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), it uses factors such as insulation, orientation, and number and type of windows to ensure your HVAC unit is the correct size for your home.
Why is a load calculation important?
A load calculation ensures you purchase the right-sized HVAC equipment. A too-large system wastes money and shortens the lifespan of the unit, while a too-small system leads to short-cycling and an overworked system. Load calculations help you avoid both while saving money and reducing the risk of early breakdown.
What factors influence duct design?
- Home layout
- Room sizes
- Insulation
- Vent placement
- Return air paths
- Heating and cooling load
- Static pressure, airflow, and velocity requirements
- Size and capability of HVAC equipment
- Duct shape and material
Do duct modifications void warranties?
They can. To avoid this, always work with a certified technician on any duct modifications, follow manufacturer guidelines, and only use approved parts.
Emergency HVAC Repair FAQs
What qualifies as an HVAC emergency?
A situation qualifies as an HVAC emergency if it has an immediate impact on your health, safety, or property. Examples include total loss of heating in the winter, loss of cooling in extreme heat, gas leaks, electrical problems with the system, and water flooding.
Do you offer after-hours / 24/7 service?
Yes, we provide after-hours emergency HVAC service 24/7 throughout the Denver metro area, in addition to our standard hours of 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. If you’re having an HVAC emergency, call us at (303) 919-9292 and we will send a qualified technician to your home as soon as possible.
Will emergency repairs cost more?
Yes, emergency repairs typically cost more than standard repairs due to overtime, rush parts, and priority scheduling. We’ll provide upfront pricing wherever possible and will never surprise you with hidden after-hours service charges.
Can I prevent emergencies?
You cannot always prevent emergencies, but you can greatly reduce the chance of them occurring through regular maintenance and inspections. Schedule bi-annual tune-ups, keep system components clean, and address concerns right away to catch HVAC problems before they become emergencies.
If my system fails during a heatwave or cold snap, what should I do until help arrives?
- Prioritize safety
- Turn the system off or to safe mode
- Close your blinds
- Check thermostat batteries
- Check the circuit breaker
- Use fans or space heaters if available
- Shut off the water supply if flooding
- Avoid DIY repairs and wait for professionals
Have a question not listed here? Contact Go Green Heating & Air Conditioning at 303-919-9292 or info@denverheating-airconditioning.com.