HVAC FAQ

Q. How often should I change my HVAC air filter?

A: It’s recommended to check and potentially replace your air filter every 1-3 months. However, factors such as usage and the type of filter can influence the frequency.

Q. What is the ideal thermostat setting for energy efficiency?

A: Setting your thermostat to 78°F in summer and 68°F in winter is a good starting point. Adjust based on personal comfort, and consider programmable thermostats for automated energy savings.

Q. Can I perform HVAC maintenance myself?

A: While simple tasks like changing filters are DIY-friendly, professional maintenance is crucial. Schedule regular check-ups to ensure optimal system performance.

Q. How do I know if my HVAC system needs repairs?

A: Signs include unusual sounds, inconsistent heating/cooling, and increased energy bills. If you notice these, contact us for a thorough inspection and timely repairs.

Q. What’s the lifespan of an HVAC system?

A: On average, HVAC systems last 15-20 years. Regular maintenance can extend their lifespan, while outdated or inefficient units may benefit from replacement.

Q. Do you offer emergency services?

A: When unexpected HVAC issues arise, Atlanta Air Authority is here to provide emergency services on a limited basis. While we strive to accommodate urgent situations, we cannot guarantee the availability of emergency services due to various factors. It’s important to note that our emergency service offerings come with additional fees to cover the expedited response and attention required. We recommend reaching out to our emergency hotline at 678-215-6789 for immediate assistance and to inquire about the availability of emergency services for your specific situation. At Atlanta Air Authority, we prioritize the comfort and safety of our customers, aiming to address HVAC emergencies promptly and efficiently.

In the event of an HVAC emergency, it’s crucial for the safety of your home and family to take specific precautions. If your system is not providing cooling or if you detect a gas smell, we strongly advise turning off your HVAC system immediately. For gas-related concerns, it is essential to contact the gas company promptly to address potential safety hazards. Once you’ve taken these initial steps, reach out to our emergency hotline at 678-215-6789 for further assistance and guidance. Our team at Atlanta Air Authority is committed to prioritizing your well-being and ensuring a swift response to emergency situations.

Q. What’s the difference between R-22 and R-410A refrigerants?

A: R-22 is being phased out due to environmental concerns. R-410A is an eco-friendly alternative commonly used in modern HVAC systems.

Q. Can I install a new thermostat myself?

A: Installing a thermostat may require technical expertise. It’s recommended to consult our professionals to ensure proper installation and system compatibility.

Q. How can I improve indoor air quality?

A: Regular cleaning, proper ventilation, and using air purifiers can enhance indoor air quality. Our experts can recommend tailored solutions based on your needs.

Q. What HVAC brands do you service?

A: At Atlanta Air Authority, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive service and support for a wide range of major HVAC brands. From established industry leaders to innovative manufacturers, our expert technicians are well-versed in servicing equipment from renowned brands such as Trane, Carrier, Lennox, Rheem, Goodman, Daikin, York, Innovair, Mitsubishi Electric, Bryant, and more. Whether it’s heating, ventilation, air conditioning, or a combination of these systems, our team is equipped to handle installations, repairs, and maintenance with precision and efficiency. Our commitment to excellence extends across various brands, ensuring that your HVAC system receives top-notch care, regardless of the manufacturer.

Q: Temperature should I set my thermostat to?

A: According to Georgia Power: “Set thermostats at 78°F in the summer and 68°F in the winter. You can expect a 3% to 5% increase in energy use for every degree you set the thermostat lower in the summer and higher in the winter. Also consider installing a programmable thermostat.” But of course adjust your thermostat to what feels best for your comfort.

Q: How often should I check my air filters?

A: We recommend checking your air filters every month. Depending on the activity in your home and the conditions with pets or maybe construction most 1″ pleated filters can last up to 90 days. Fiberglass filters only last for a month at best and are not recommended. Media filters (4 inch thick , 5 inch thick) can last a year and sometimes longer but should be checked every 6 months to make sure that the filter is performing properly and isn’t impacted, restricting air flow.

Q: Should I get a Carbon Monoxide detector?

A: Yes. Simply put a carbon monoxide detector could save your life and they are highly recommended especially if you have older gas appliances in your home. Having a well working carbon monoxide detector should be a priority.

Q: How long does my carbon monoxide detector last?

A: You should change the whole carbon monoxide detector at least every 5 years, or even sooner. The components in the detector can become less effective over time due to dust and other air born factors deteriorating the ability of the unit to do it’s job properly. It is best to err on the side of caution and replace your device soon rather than later. Batteries should be changed with the time change, same as with your smoke detectors.

Q: My furnace is having issues, how do I light my pilot light?

A: Before attempting to light a pilot light, it’s crucial to determine if your furnace has a standing (always on) pilot light. If your furnace is less than 20 years old, it likely utilizes electronic ignition systems rather than a standing pilot. Do not proceed unless you are certain you have a standing pilot.

Modern furnaces no longer rely on pilot lights, opting for electronic ignition systems that activate on demand. There are three types of electronic ignition systems:

1. Electronic Pilot Lights: New furnaces use electronic ignition systems that eliminate the need for a standing pilot light. These systems ignite only when heat is required, enhancing safety, reliability, and energy efficiency.

2. Intermittent Pilots: This type of electronic pilot activates only when the burner needs ignition. Triggered by a low thermostat setting, it generates a spark to ignite the burners and shuts off after completing the heat cycle. This on-demand approach reduces fuel and energy consumption compared to traditional standing pilot lights.

3. Hot Surface Pilots: A prevalent electronic pilot, the hot surface igniter, operates without a pilot light. Comprising silicon carbide and silicon nitride, it responds to an electric current when the thermostat calls for heat. The igniter’s surface heats up, prompting the gas valve to open and activate the burner. Regular maintenance is essential for all electronic furnace ignition systems, as each type requires replacement after a few years.

By understanding the type of ignition system your furnace uses, you can ensure proper maintenance and address issues effectively.

Q: What is two-stage cooling?

A: Two-stage cooling utilizes a multi-, or two-speed compressor. A high-stage demand from the thermostat will cause the compressor and circulating fan to operate at 100% cooling capacity and the indoor fan to operate at the high-speed setting designated at the furnace or air handler. A low-stage demand from the thermostat will result in a 35% speed reduction at both the compressor and indoor unit circulating fan. Two-stage cooling generally results in extend operation at low speed removing more moisture from the structure, providing more comfort and using less electricity than single-stage systems.

Q: What is modulating heating?

A: A high-efficiency gas furnace with modulating gas valve and variable-speed blower provides outstanding efficient and economical heating performance. Unlike single-stage gas furnaces that operate ‘all ON’ or ‘all OFF,’ a modulating, variable-speed gas furnace minimizes energy use by running at the lowest possible fan speed, and producing just the right amount of heat to keep a steady, comfortable temperature in your home.

Q: Should I zone my house?

A: In many application it’s too much to expect one thermostat to provide perfect conditions to every room in your home. What is comfortable for the sleeping area may be uncomfortable for the living area and vice versa. Zoning divides your home into areas with common heating and cooling requirements by the use of additional thermostats and zone dampers installed in the duct system. Zoning allows you the ability to leave unoccupied areas without heating or cooling, in some cases saving money on energy costs. A properly designed zoning system allows you to simply set the temperature in each zone to your desired comfort level and the equipment and zone dampers will do the rest.

Q: Why should I perform preventive maintenance?

A: Heating and cooling systems work incredibly hard to perform their functions for your household. The constant stopping, starting and continual operation can wear down a machine quickly and unexpectedly if the proper care and maintenance is delayed. However, by performing preventive maintenance, or servicing your system regularly, you can maximize the life-cycle of your heating or cooling unit and guard against many unexpected failures. Preventive maintenance inspections performed on a regular basis can uncover leaks, rust, rot, soot, frayed wires and corroded electrical contacts.

Q: What type of filter should I use?

A: Standard furnace filters work well to keep your system and its duct work clean, but they don’t really improve indoor air quality. To do that you need a media filter. The media filter rests between the main return duct and the blower cabinet and will improve dust and particle removal by seven times that of a standard furnace filter. However, upgrading to a pleated media filter will remove everything from insecticide dust to airborne viruses from the filtered air. A media filter can have a life exceeding a year, and its only drawback is that its tight fiber weave can cause your furnace to have to work harder to blow air through the house. Always choose a filter that matches your blower’s capacity and consult your AAA Technician for the best option.

Q: What is Emergency Heat?

A: Simply put, all Heat Pumps in northern climates (below 35 degrees) need a supplemental heating source. Usually it is in the form of electric resistance heating – at the indoor unit. This is an all-electric Heat Pump, but it could also be a gas, oil, or hot-water back-up system as well. The supplemental heat is also referred to as second-stage or back-up heating, with first-stage being the Heat Pump only. Emergency Heat is when you use your supplemental heat (2nd stage) by itself, without the use of your heat pump (1st stage heat).Different systems and thermostats have different ways of determining when the second-stage heat comes on to assist the heat pump, but it is always done automatically. The two stages will work together in the colder months, and it is not necessary to switch your thermostat to Emergency Heat. So now we know that Emergency Heat is basically when you use your supplemental heat by itself.

Q: Why is the Emergency Heat light on?

A: The Emergency Heat light will be on whenever your thermostat is set to Emergency Heat. But if your thermostat is not set to emergency heat and the light is on, then that usually indicates a problem with your heat pump.

Q: Can frost, ice, dirt or other debris keep the outdoor unit of my cooling system from operating effectively?

A: Anything that prevents airflow from making its way to the outdoor coil can negatively affect the efficiency and performance of the equipment. Make it a priority to keep the space around the equipment clean and clear.

Q: Should I cover my outdoor unit in the fall and winter?

A: Covering the outdoor unit in the winter months prevents unwanted debris from accumulating on the outdoor unit and later impeding airflow to the outdoor unit. At the same time accidentally operating the outdoor unit with a covering in place could cause system damage. It is recommended that high voltage power always be disconnected from the outdoor unit whenever a cover or anything obstructing airflow is introduced.

Q: How long will my system last?

A: Proper maintenance is key. Maintenance and service play a key role in the life-cycle of a heating or air conditioning system. If all recommended maintenance and service actions are taken, an air conditioner can last 12 to 15 years and a gas furnace 20 to 25 years.

Q: Is there really a difference between air conditioner and heat pump sound levels?

A: In air conditioning mode and air conditioner and heat pump work in exactly the same manner and there is no detectable sound level difference. High pressure refrigerant is created by the compressor in the outdoor unit which sequentially creates low pressure refrigerant inside the indoor unit evaporator coil. Low pressure refrigerant turns cold, warm air is circulated across the cold coil ultimately cooling the indoor space. In heating mode an air conditioning system employs a gas furnace and the outdoor unit is idle. A heat pump system reverses the system piping flow pumping high pressure refrigerant to the indoor coil. This heats the coil and the structure as air is circulated across the coil. Hence the outdoor unit is operational during the winter months.