Frequently Asked Questions

Answer: YES! A new 13 SEER air conditioner or heat pump could save you as much as 50% on your operating cost (13 SEER) is just the minimum efficiency standard allowed by law). Depending on your current operating costs, higher efficiency systems could save you even more. Newer gas furnaces are 30 – 40% more efficient than some older models. With rising gas prices, this could mean big savings.

Answer: This stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The size of a air conditioner is rated in BTU or Tons, however the efficiency is rated in SEER. It’s like mpg (miles per gallon) in a car – the higher the mpg (or SEER) the lower the gasoline (electricity) bill.

Answer: With the new 13 SEER minimum efficiency standard now in place, it is more important than ever to make sure the outdoor and indoor units match. Not to say that a 13 SEER air conditioner can't work with an older air handler or evaporator coil, but it is most likely that the system will never perform as it is intended. Also, mismatching this newer equipment to old will increase the risk of premature compressor failure. Some equipment manufacturers will now void their warranties when systems are mismatched.

Answer: Although it is generally recommended to match components, most brands of air conditioners will work with others as long as the coils and blowers are the proper size. You may however, experience some loss of efficiency and capacity.

Answer: Be sure he has a license, obtains all required permits and has adequate insurance. Keep in mind you will be dependent on him and his schedule for warranty repairs. If he meets the above requirements and has the needed experience and you understand that repairs may not be timely – you may save some money, but be sure you are not getting a “cheap” installation that will cost you in the long run.

Answer: An “oversized” air conditioner will cool your house quicker, but it will use more electricity and will not remove humidity adequately. If your ductwork is not big enough for the “oversized” air conditioner, the coil may freeze and then the air conditioner won’t work at all. Obviously the air conditioner must be big enough to cool the house, otherwise it creates another set of problems.We recommend the proper size to cool your home to 75 degrees when it is 95 degrees outside, then increase the size slightly, if needed, based on your temperature preferences.

Answer: Certainly. There are a variety of causes for airflow problems. Sometimes the problems are due to a dirty filter, coil and/or blower which results in the right amount of air passing through the air handler and causing it to die off in the duct system. From time to time the duct work comes loose and a minor repair can solve the problem. In many cases, there may be duct design issues. In these cases, a professional should be called in to troubleshoot the situation. Solutions can range from some simple balancing to replacement of ducts to advanced climate control (zoning) systems.

Answer: Try both ways. Running the blower all the time will use a little extra electricity, however the home is usually more comfortable, the temperature is more even throughout the home, and the air is cleaner because it is filtered more. The motors generally last longer because they are not starting and stopping. Some of the new furnaces have the ability to use a slow blower speed for continuous operation, and a faster speed when the furnace or air conditioner are running. Over the years, it has been found that running your blower continuous can increase the humidity in a house. When your air conditioner stops running there can be a substantial amount of condensation left on the evaporator coil and the drain pan. Continually circulating warm air across the components can re-evaporate this moisture.

Answer: For installation of new equipment, we do not require any down payment, however we ask for payment after installation is complete (unless other arrangements have been made). We accept VISA, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Cash, and Checks. We also have financing available.

Answer: Programmable thermostats allow you to have the temperature raise and lower automatically at specific times each day. They can reduce your energy bills and increase your comfort (i.e. get up to a “warm” bathroom during the winter). If your family follows a fairly regular schedule, a programmable thermostat may be a good investment.

Answer: YES! Air Conduit not only provides duct cleaning, we also provide free duct cleaning estimates. Clean ducts are important in your home environment. Dust builds up inside our ductwork just like it builds up on our furniture. It is important to clean the ductwork every few years to prevent this build up of dust, pollen fungus and bacteria. You will breathe better, your home will be cleaner, possible health hazards will be eliminated, and your heating and cooling costs will be reduced.

Answer: Yes, we charge a flat rate “Diagnostic Fee” to determine the problem with your system. If repairs are needed you will be told the cost up front.