HVAC FAQs
HVAC—heating, ventilation, and air conditioning—is a system that provides different types of heating and cooling services to residential and commercial buildings. Its function is to provide thermal comfort, humidity control, and acceptable indoor air quality.
The majority of home and smaller commercial air conditioning systems circulate a compressed gas refrigerant in a closed ‘split’ system to cool and condition inside air. The refrigerant is re-cooled and condensed using outside air. A blower circulates conditioned air through ducts to rooms needing cooling.
ENERGY STAR is a program by the US EPA to help businesses and individuals make energy efficient purchases. It labels products that meet superior energy efficiency standards with a blue and white logo.
Most popular brands work well; main considerations are price, warranty, noise, and installation quality. Use a licensed contractor for installation to avoid problems.
Provides a comfortable environment year-round with heating/cooling and humidity control. Many units have auto changeover to cool or heat as needed.
Most systems last 10 to 15 years; gas furnaces last 20-25 years. Efficiency decreases with age, and harsh environments shorten lifespan.
An all-in-one heating and air conditioning system that works year-round by transferring heat inside or outside depending on the season. Efficient and can produce 2-3 times more heat than energy used.
A large metal box containing blower, heating/cooling elements, filters, and dampers. Connects to ductwork to distribute conditioned air.
British Thermal Unit, measures heating or cooling capacity. 1 BTU raises or lowers 1 pound of water by 1 degree Fahrenheit. 12,000 BTUs equal 1 Ton of Cooling.
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, measures air conditioning and heat pump cooling efficiency. Higher SEER means greater energy efficiency.
The cost varies widely depending on the system size, type, installation complexity, and region. Typically, homeowners can expect to pay between $4,000 and $12,000 for a new HVAC system installed.
It is recommended to replace your air filter every 30–90 days, depending on the type of filter and your home environment. Homes with pets or allergies may require more frequent changes.
Common signs include unusual noises, weak airflow, inconsistent temperatures, high energy bills, and frequent cycling on and off.
Regular maintenance, proper insulation, sealing leaks, using a programmable thermostat, and keeping vents unobstructed can all help improve your system’s efficiency.
A programmable thermostat allows you to set temperature schedules for different times of the day or week, helping you save energy and maintain comfort.
HVAC system warranties typically cover parts and, in some cases, labor for a specified period. Always check your specific warranty for coverage details, as terms vary by manufacturer and installer.
