Frequently Asked Questions

• What do rating numbers mean? • What is a SEER? • What does HSPF stand for? • What does AFUE stand for? • Should outdoor units be covered in winter? • Should a thermostat be set to "auto" or "on"? • Can shrubs or flowers be planted around an outdoor unit? • If an outdoor unit needs replacing, should the indoor unit be replaced too? • How do I know what size unit our house needs? •Is sound an issue with new equipment: • What is the difference between a split system and a package unit? What do rating numbers mean? The U.S. government requires an efficiency rating of all air conditioning and heating equipment. The rating reflects the percentage of energy used efficiently, with a high rating indicating high-efficiency. The next two topics address this issue in greater detail. Back to top What is a SEER? There are special names for the efficiency ratings of various types of equipment. Air conditioning equipment is rated by the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating, or SEER. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit. The higher the SEER rating, the less electricity it uses. WARNING: There are actually some contractors ou there that think the higher the SEER, the colder the air it puts out. Back to top What does HSPF stand for? There are special names for the efficiency ratings of varying types of equipment. Heat pump equipment in the heating mode is rated by the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor, or HSPF. The higher the HSPF rating, the more efficient the unit. Again, the less energy it uses. Back to top What does AFUE stand for? There are special names for the efficiency ratings of various types of equipment. Gas furnaces are rated according to their Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, or AFUE. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the unit. The typical furnace is 80% efficient. There are furnaces made now that are up to 98% efficient (they burn more gas efficiently). Back to top Should outdoor units be covered in winter? No. Heat pumps operate year-round and should never be covered. Similarly, air conditioners that operate seasonally are built to withstand an outdoor environment and should not be covered. Back to top Should a thermostat be set to "auto" or "on"? Preferably auto. That way, the fan operates only when the temperature requires it. This is the most used and the most efficient  setting. However, there are advantages to using the "on" setting. Air is constantly filtered through the unit's air filter, and the  constantly circulating air results in an even temperature throughout the house. Back to top Can shrubs or flowers be planted around an outdoor unit? Yes. However, we recommend that plants be no closer than 18 inches to the unit. This allows for plenty of room for air  circulation in and out of the unit. Without this room for air circulation, the unit could overheat, resulting in a premature need  for service. Back to top If an outdoor unit needs replacing, should the indoor unit be replaced too? Yes. All air conditioning and heating units are designed to operate as a complete, matched system. The efficiency rating is  based on the entire system. Replacing the entire system ensures the system will be reliable and efficient. Back to top How do I know what size unit our house needs? Ask your HVAC dealer. He will consider many factors before making a recommendation. Factors like … size of the house, climate, the number and type  of windows installed, insulation, and even the number of people living in the house. They should perform what is called a Manual J Load Calculation. Back to top Is sound an issue for heating and air conditioning? The louder the better doesn't necessarily hold true for heating and A/C equipment. Heating and cooling equipment should offer  maximum comfort with minimum noise. Fortunately, today's technology has enabled manufacturers to produce air  conditioners and heat pumps that are not only highly efficient, but also exceptionally quiet. Especially the new Rheem line. Loud heating and cooling equipment contribute to sound pollution. Although no financial savings are tied to lower sound levels,  the sound rating of a cooling system can have a considerable effect on comfort and enjoyment of your home. The sound level of  an air conditioner or heat pump depends on a variety of factors. The age of the unit and whether the compressor is insulated or  not can contribute to the amount of noise it makes. You also need to choose a contractor that will look at your duct system. Ducts that are undersized (both return & supply) can  create noise. Ask your contractor if your ducts are sized correctly. They should measure and run some calculations before  answering. Although most heating and cooling systems manufactured today are quieter than ever before, it's a good idea to compare sound  ratings when shopping for a new air conditioner or heat pump, particularly if the equipment location is near bedrooms or living  rooms. Great differences in the sound levels of products on the market today can make all the difference in just how  comfortable you can be at home. Back to top What is the difference between a split system and a package unit? A split system uses indoor and outdoor components to provide a complete home comfort system. A package unit or self- contained unit requires no external coils, air handlers, or heating units. Back to top How do I schedule an appointment? Just Click Here Back to top