Home HVAC Systems: Frequently Asked Questions

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are common in many households.

People usually tend to buy HVAC systems that are the most energy efficient and provide the best comfort. However, to get the best results, HVAC systems must be kept in their best forms.

While everyone accepts that the HVAC systems are one of the most important systems they have in their home in terms of comfortability, they often have some common problems with the installation and maintenance of these systems.

Here are some of the most common queries people have about HVAC systems.

1. When should I check the air filter of my HVAC system?

Air filters should be checked once every month. Since these are the accessories that stop the dirt and pollution from entering your room, they often get dirty and entangled themselves.

Hence, they should be checked and cleaned once every month. For those who have ‘use and throw’ filters, they must replace the filters every month.

2. How to use the thermostat for maximum energy savings?

Keeping the thermostat fixed at higher temperatures during the summer and at lower during winters is a good way to save energy. The nearer the temperature of the room, better is the energy savings.

3. Can fans be used simultaneously to lower my energy bills?

Yes. Fans help to circulate the air and when used with optimum efficiency, they can help the HVAC systems incur lower costs. Set clockwise rotation during winters and anticlockwise during summers for maximum benefits.

4. What are the prominent reasons for ACs freezing the rooms?

There are numerous reasons why ACs turn the room to freezing temperatures. One reason is a leakage in the lines of refrigerants.

Also, if the evaporator coil gets dirty and messed up, the AC may start cooling the room too much. If you are disturbed by the AC’s too low temperature, call for a service officer.

5. What is meant by indoor air quality?

Indoor air quality is a measure of the quality of the air inside a room in terms of the presence of pollutants, humidity, and ventilation levels. When the air quality is low it is unhealthy for human beings to stay inside such a room.

6. What causes indoor pollution?

The dirt and pollutants in the carpets, upholstery, furniture, cleaning products, curtains, air fresheners, chemical paints, and gaseous chemicals of appliances can cause indoor air pollution.

7. What is the right HVAC size for my room?

There is no one right size that fits all the requirements. Depending on the size of the room, temperature levels, and humidity of the location the size of appropriate HVAC systems may vary. To get more details about the right size of an HVAC system for your room, consult with a certified professional.

8. Which is better – repairing or replacing the HVAC system?

It depends on the condition of the HVAC system. If it is old enough and malfunctions frequently, you should replace it.

However, if it is working decently and causes no discomfort or incurs no high energy costs for you, you should repair it to make it work as it should. The maximum life of an HVAC system is 20 years. If it is older, you probably need to consider obtaining an upgrade.