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HVAC and Water Heating FAQ

Answers to Frequently Asked HVAC questions.

What is HVAC?

The acronym HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. This term is generally utilized to represent the entire heating and cooling system, which contains ductwork, air filters, humidification controls, and air vents. The HVAC system is important in keeping optimal indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and humidity levels in buildings. It operates by controlling the temperature and humidity of the air inside the building and removing impurities such as dust, allergens, and pollutants. Proper maintenance and regular tune-ups of the HVAC system are essential to guarantee its efficient and safe operation.

What regular maintenance do heating and air conditioning systems need?

Maintaining unrestricted air-flow is paramount in maintaining the integrity of HVAC systems. These appliances are highly sensitive to dust, dirt, and debris, which can interfere with their optimal functioning. It is essential to keep all air filters clean and clear of obstructions. It is also important to ensure that heat exchangers and coils are free from dirt, whether indoor or outdoor units.

To ensure the optimal functioning of your heating and cooling system, it is suggested to have it serviced twice annually, preferably during spring and autumn. Additionally, it is advisable to replace the air filters regularly, depending on the type of air filter in use. This easy maintenance practice can eliminate many of the most common issues that need fixing and greatly reduce the chance of a significant breakdown.

How can I determine if my furnace, air conditioner, or boiler heating system is still under warranty?

To determine whether an existing warranty is in place for a furnace, air conditioner, or boiler heating system, one may refer to the label affixed to the exterior of the equipment to ascertain the manufacturing date. If the equipment is less than five years old, it may warrant coverage. However, this is subject to the model as well as the terms and conditions of the warranty, which can vary by both manufacturer and installation company.

Interested parties may contact EMCO Tech, formerly known as Emergency Maintenance Company for assistance in verifying the status of a heating and cooling system warranty. Office managers are standing by to provide support and guidance. Those who want to verify their equipment warranty status can complete and submit the Get Warranty form.

Why is it important to regularly change the air filter?

Regular filter replacement helps your heating and cooling system operate at peak levels and improves indoor air quality. It is important to change filters regularly to ensure proper airflow and to keep your home free from dust, allergens, and germs. Depending on the type of filter you have, you may require weekly or monthly filter replacements. Your Emergency Maintenance Company DBA EMCO Tech service or installation technician will recommend the ideal filters and replacement schedules for your unit(s). Simply call our office at 215.366.1001 for a free phone consultation.

Does sound have an impact on heating and air conditioning systems?

Loud HVAC equipment can contribute to sound disturbance, which can affect the comfort of the occupants. While lower sound levels may not always result in financial savings, the sound rating of a cooling system plays a crucial role in ensuring a pleasant and peaceful environment. Several factors determine the sound level of an air conditioner or heat pump, such as the unit’s make and age. The the AC compressor sound blanket can also affect the noise levels it generates. Therefore, it is vital to consider these factors when selecting a new HVAC system to ensure optimal comfort and minimal sound disruption. Contact our office to get a no obligation on-site quote and consultation.

How can I tell if I need to hire an HVAC technician?

If you observe any unusual sounds, it is advisable to seek professional service promptly. Similarly, if your HVAC system is unable to regulate the temperature in all areas of your residential or commercial property, professional service should be sought promptly. If there has been an unexplained escalation in your utility bills, it may well indicate an underlying issue with your system. Delaying prompt attention to these HVAC questions or problems can worsen existing issues. Therefore, we advise you to schedule a service appointment with EMCO Tech Heating & Cooling without hesitation. Our experienced heating and AC contractors can provide a reliable diagnosis of the problem. They can also make the necessary repairs to prevent further damage and avert potential safety hazards.

Which HVAC manufacturer does EMCO Tech prefer?

At EMCO Tech Heating and Cooling we choose only trusted brands that honor the manufacturer warranty, have local distribution centers, and have easy access to spare parts in case they’re defective. Products we offer were field tested by our installation and service technicians for decades, and are proven to be the most reliable on the local market. EMCO Tech is proud to be authorized dealer of Carrier HVAC and you can request our services directly from the manufacturer website here. Carrier HVAC equipment comes with up to 10 years warranty on labor and parts.

Does my Heating and AC system qualify for PECO Rebates?

For PECO electric customers rebates for heating and cooling are based on ENERGY STAR criteria, rated as a whole system by the Air Conditioning, Heating, & Refrigeration Institute (AHRI). Federal requirements and amount of rebates change based on the time of installation and ENERGY STAR, AHRI ratings, and the new federal SEER2, EER2, and HSPF2. You can find up-to-date answers to HVAC questions and apply on the PECO website, or by contacting our office at 215-366-1001.

PECO natural gas customers located in Montgomery, Bucks, Chester, or Delaware counties may be eligible for the PECO Natural Gas Energy Efficiency Rebate Program. Such rebates are available for installation of qualified residential natural gas ENERGY STAR® furnaces, boilers, and/or storage tank water heaters.

How do I know if my A/C unit is big enough?

There are a few signs that can help you determine if your A/C unit is big enough for your house. Some of these signs include your A/C not cooling your home, inconsistent room temperatures in your home, your air conditioner not turning off, high energy bills, high humidity levels inside your home, and low airflow in your home. Additionally, you can use an AC Size Calculator to estimate the proper Central AC size in TONs & BTUs based on your house size, SEER rating (Glossary page), conditioned space (house) size, heat load & loss, and other parameters. This calculator can also help you estimate the cost of installing your Central Air system in different climate zones (regions).

It’s important to note that bigger isn’t always better; it is performance and efficiency that count. Before purchasing a replacement system you should always make sure your system is sized properly to match your needs and budget. A service manager from EMCO Tech Heating and Cooling aka Emergency Maintenance Company will thoroughly assess your home and comfort requirements to determine the proper size and make the appropriate recommendation.

You may find more info in these posts:
Common Questions About Air Conditioning Installation
Ensure That Your Air Conditioning Runs Efficiently

How can I increase the efficiency and life of my home’s heating and cooling systems?

A few quick HVAC question tips:

  • Clean and replace your air filters frequently.
  • Your system will heat and cool more evenly when the blower is in the “on” position. The blower provides constant air movement throughout the home, and allows for better filtration. If everything works the way you want, “auto” fan mode would reduce energy consumption.
  • Install shades, drapes, shutters, or screens on windows that are exposed to extreme sunlight to keep room temperatures at moderate levels.

How can I eliminate indoor odors?

You may have tried to cover up indoor odors by spraying air fresheners or lighting candles. Unfortunately, these tactics only mask the odors, they don’t get rid of them. These remedies may in fact negatively affect indoor air quality from chemicals that cause allergic reactions or eye irritation for homeowners.

Bacteria, dust mites, animal dander, cat saliva and mold may also be roots of your home’s odor problem. One method to purify the air is integrating germicidal (UV) lights in your home, which helps kill odors and inhibit the growth of biological contaminants, sterilizing surfaces in the HVAC system. They also purify the air, preventing the growth of contaminants. The UV lights are installed to work with your home comfort system.

Sometimes poor ventilation contributes to unpleasant odors. Moisture condensation on walls windows and stagnant air are signs of poor ventilation. A qualified Service technician can inspect your home comfort system to determine if this is an issue that should be addressed. The technician can also inform you how to solve the ventilation system’s ability to correctly circulate and ventilate indoor air. Call us at 215-366-1001 for more information.

How do I know which indoor air quality product is right for me?

Every individual and household have unique requirements for comfort. The threshold for irritants and triggers that impact the health and comfort of individuals determines the appropriate solutions. Straightforward solutions such as enhanced air filters may adequately address the needs of those with higher threshold levels. However, those with lower threshold levels may require an air purification system to reduce irritants and triggers. Service Experts provides a Home Health Report Card to assist in selecting the most suitable indoor air improvement products. To view our Carrier Indoor Air Quality Products, please visit Air Purifiers, Humidifiers, UV Air Purifiers. Contact us now to learn more about how our indoor air quality solutions can improve your quality of life.

How healthy is my indoor air?

According to studies created by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, exposure to air pollutants indoors can be 100 times higher than outdoors. Frequent dusting and vacuuming can help reduce the amount of dust and dust mites present in your home. However, not all airborne particles can be eliminated. Filtration devices can help eliminate particles that are too small to be caught by a vacuum. Some filtration devices include UV light units, air filters, energy recovery ventilators (ERVs), heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) and electronic air cleaners. A Home Health Report Card from Service Experts will provide the information about which indoor air improvement devices are right for you. To receive a Home Health Report Card and personal air quality consultation EMCO Tech Heating & Cooling formerly Emergency Maintenance Company at 215.366.1001.

At what temperature should I set my thermostat?

Temperature settings depend on the time of year and your personal preferences. In the summer, the average temperature setting is 75°-80°. In the winter 68°-72° is the norm. Remember, when leaving your house; try to avoid drastic temperature changes. Do not set your temperature back more than 5°; this will cause your unit to work harder to achieve the desired temperature setting. Learn more about energy saving smart thermostat benefits.

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