Frequently Asked Questions for

HVAC, Furnace, AC, and Heat Pumps

 

Heat Pump FAQs

Q: What size heat pump do I need for my home?

A: To find the right size of the heat pump for your home, we need to consider aspects like how big your home is, how well it is insulated, and what the weather is like in your area. We can do a comprehensive evaluation to figure out the best size for maximum performance.

Q: How long does a heat pump installation take?

A: Installation time will vary based on factors like the complexity of the installation, the type of heat pump, and the size of your home. Generally, it may take one to two days for a standard installation.

Q: Are there any government incentives for installing a heat pump in Colorado?

A: Yes, there are some government incentives for installing a heat pump in Colorado. According to the web search results, you may be eligible for the following benefits:

• • A federal tax credit of up to $1,200 per year for energy-efficient home improvements, including heat pumps and heat pump water heaters.
  • A state tax credit of 10% and a state sales tax exemption of 2.9% for heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, electrical panel upgrades, and energy storage systems.
  • A rebate program from the Inflation Reduction Act that will provide funding for income-qualified Colorado homeowners and renters to improve home energy efficiency and upgrade to electric appliances.
  • These incentives are subject to certain requirements and limitations, so please check the official sources for more details.

These incentives are subject to certain requirements and limitations, so please check the official sources for more details.

Q: How often do heat pumps need to be serviced?

A: To ensure that your heat pump works as well as possible, you need to take care of it regularly. You should arrange for an expert to check it at least once every year.

Q: How do heat pumps perform in Colorado winters?

A: While traditional heat pumps may become less efficient in extremely cold temperatures, there are models specifically designed for colder climates. Cold climate heat pumps have improved technology that makes them more effective and reliable in harsh weather conditions.  Heat pumps can work in Colorado winters, but it takes some planning and research. You should consult with a professional contractor who has experience with heat pumps in cold climates, and who can help you choose the best model and size for your home.

Q: What is the lifespan of a heat pump?

A: The lifespan of a heat pump depends on several factors, such as the model, the installation, the maintenance, the usage, and the climate. The average lifespan of a heat pump is 10 to 15 years, but some experts claim that a well-maintained heat pump can continue to perform for years after this range. However, if you notice signs of declining performance, such as rising electricity bills, frequent repairs, or poor air quality, it may be time to replace your heat pump.

Q: Do heat pumps require special care during the winter?

A: Cold climate heat pumps are designed to handle Colorado winter conditions, but it’s essential to keep the outdoor unit free of ice and snow. Talk to your installer about taking additional measures, such as using a protective cover or elevating the unit.

Q: How energy-efficient are heat pumps compared to traditional heating systems?

A: Heat pumps are generally more energy-efficient than traditional heating systems, such as furnaces, boilers, or electric baseboards. According to Consumer Reports, heat pumps can reduce your heating and cooling costs by up to 40 percent compared with conventional systems. However, the exact amount of savings depends on several factors, such as the type and size of the heat pump, the climate and weather conditions, the cost of electricity and fuel, and the insulation and air sealing of your home. To find out how much you can save by switching to a heat pump, consult with a qualified HVAC contractor.

Q: What warranties come with a new heat pump installation?

A: Warranties vary by manufacturer and model. Fix-It Now offers an industry-leading lifetime replacement warranty on certain brands of heat pumps. Call us to discuss warranty details and to better understand the steps required to maintain the warranty, including coverage for parts and labor.

 

Furnace FAQs:

 

Q: How often should I have my furnace serviced?

A: It is recommended to have your furnace serviced at least once a year, preferably before the heating season begins. This will ensure that your furnace is working properly, safely, and efficiently. A furnace service typically includes inspecting, cleaning, and adjusting the components of the furnace, such as the burners, heat exchanger, blower, filters, and thermostat. A furnace service can also help prevent costly and inconvenient breakdowns, extend the lifespan of your furnace, and lower your energy bills.

Q: What are the signs that I need furnace repair?

A: Some common signs that your furnace needs repair are:

– The furnace is not heating your home adequately or evenly

– The furnace is making unusual noises, such as banging, rattling, or squealing

– The furnace is cycling on and off frequently or running continuously

– The furnace is emitting strange odors, such as gas, burning, or musty smells

– The furnace is leaking water or producing excessive condensation

– The furnace is causing your carbon monoxide detector to go off 

If you notice any of these signs, you should call a professional furnace technician as soon as possible to diagnose and fix the problem.

Q: How can I improve the efficiency of my furnace?

A: There are several ways to improve the efficiency of your furnace and save money on your heating costs, such as:

– Replacing your old furnace with a new, high-efficiency model that has an ENERGY STAR rating

– Installing a programmable or smart thermostat that can adjust the temperature according to your schedule and preferences

– Changing or cleaning your furnace filter regularly, at least every three months or more often if you have pets or allergies

– Sealing and insulating your ductwork to prevent heat loss and improve airflow

– Keeping your vents and registers clear of dust, furniture, and other obstructions

– Reducing the heat loss from your home by adding insulation, weatherstripping, and caulking to your windows, doors, and walls

Q: What is a condensing furnace and how does it work?

A: A condensing furnace is a type of high-efficiency furnace that has a second heat exchanger that extracts additional heat from the exhaust gasses that would otherwise be wasted. This heat-extraction process causes water vapor to condense out of the air, which is drained away through a tube that is usually placed in a floor drain. A condensing furnace can achieve up to 98% efficiency, compared to a conventional furnace that has an efficiency of about 80%. A condensing furnace can also reduce your carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions.

Q: How do I choose the right size of furnace for my home?

A: Choosing the right size of furnace for your home is important for your comfort, efficiency, and longevity of your furnace. A furnace that is too small will not be able to heat your home adequately, especially on cold days. A furnace that is too large will cycle on and off more frequently, wasting energy and causing wear and tear on the components. To choose the right size of furnace for your home, you should consult a professional furnace installer who can perform a heat load calculation. This calculation takes into account various factors, such as the size, layout, insulation, windows, and climate of your home, to determine the optimal heating capacity of your furnace.

Air Conditioner FAQs:

Q: What is the difference between SEER and EER ratings for air conditioners?

A: SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and EER stands for Energy Efficiency Ratio. Both ratings measure the cooling efficiency of an air conditioner, but they use different methods. SEER is calculated by dividing the cooling output of an air conditioner during a typical cooling season by the total electric energy input over the same period. EER is calculated by dividing the cooling output of an air conditioner at a specific outdoor temperature (usually 95°F) by the electric energy input at that temperature. The higher the SEER or EER rating, the more efficient the air conditioner. SEER ratings are more commonly used than EER ratings, as they reflect the average performance of an air conditioner over a range of temperatures.

Q: How often should I change or clean the air filter of my air conditioner?

A: The air filter of your air conditioner is responsible for removing dust, pollen, and other particles from the air that passes through the system. A dirty or clogged air filter can reduce the airflow, efficiency, and performance of your air conditioner, as well as affect the indoor air quality and comfort of your home. Therefore, it is recommended to change or clean the air filter of your air conditioner at least every three months, or more often if you have pets, allergies, or live in a dusty area.

Q: How can I tell if my air conditioner needs repair?

A: Some common signs that your air conditioner needs repair are:

– The air conditioner is not cooling your home adequately or evenly

– The air conditioner is making unusual noises, such as banging, rattling, or squealing

– The air conditioner is leaking water or refrigerant

– The air conditioner is causing your circuit breaker to trip or your fuses to blow

– The air conditioner is emitting strange odors, such as burning, musty, or chemical smells

If you notice any of these signs, call a certified air conditioner technician as soon as possible to diagnose and fix the problem.

Q: What are the benefits of a smart or programmable thermostat for my air conditioner?

A: A smart or programmable thermostat is a device that can automatically adjust the temperature of your air conditioner according to your schedule and preferences. A smart or programmable thermostat can help you save energy and money by reducing the cooling load when you are away from home or sleeping, and increasing the cooling comfort when you are at home or awake. A smart or programmable thermostat can also provide you with remote control, alerts, reports, and other features that can enhance the convenience and performance of your air conditioner.