FAQ


Self-Help (Trouble shooting Guide)

 

How long should my unit last?

  • Heat pumps generally last 10-12 years
  • Gas-electric units last on average 14-16 years
  • Regular maintenance, monthly filter changes and properly sized ductwork and equipment will all impact the life of your unit.

When do you recommend replacement over repairs?

If a unit is greater than 10 years old, generally all warranties have expired. When the repair amount seems excessive in comparision to a newer, more efficient unit, many times customers will choose replacement to benefit from lower energy bills and to gain factory warranty.

How much will it cost to replace my unit?

Each homeowner is given a custom quote based on a Comfort Needs Analysis. A variety of factors will affect your estimate. These are a few of the items to consider:

  • Age of your home
  • Age and number of windows
  • Which rooms face east and west (will need more cooling)
  • Attic insulation/ventilation
  • The efficiency rating of the equipment you choose.

Can I arrange a payment plan?

Yes, see our section on Financing.

How do you know how large my unit should be?

Allen's Air Care uses a software package, Manual-J, to determine the correct size unit for your home. When using the software, we enter each room's measurement, provide data on the number of windows and the home's position (facing East, West, etc.) along with a variety of other factors, to calculate the heating and cooling needs of your home. There are as many disadvantages to an over-sized unit as there are to an under-sized unit.

What's the difference between "Seer" levels?

"SEER" is Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The higher your SEER rating, the more efficient your equipment is and the lower your energy bills will be. In 2006 the US Government mandated that all HVAC equipment be manufactured to meet at least a 13 SEER rating. More SEER info »

What's the difference between brands?

When faced with the decision to replace your unit, you will find a varitey of models available. The reality is many of these models are manufactured by the same companies. Although some differences exist in manufacturing quality, research and development of the products, we have found the largest variable to be with the duct design and installation of the finished product.

Understanding you warranty

All units come with a manufacturers warranty. The coverage will vary regarding parts and labor, as well as, a timeframe for claims. Most units have a 5-year parts, 1-year labor warranty. The consumer may purchase an additional parts and labor warranty for up to 10-years. Parts replaced and covered by the original warranty do not extend the life of the warranty, they only finish the original warranty period. The majority of manufacturers require a maintenance agreement to protect the integrity of the warranty.

 

Self Help (Trouble Shooting Guide)

There is smoke coming from my heat pump, is this normal?

Yes, this is a normal process referred to as the "defrost cycle". It will occur during low outdoor tempuratures while cold air is moving across a warm coil, the outdoor fan should not be running. The defrost cycle may repeat every 90-minutes and last as long as 10-minutes depending on the outdoor temperature.

When do I change my air filter?

Each month when you receive your electric bill, this is a good time to check your filter. We recommend changing a standard fiberglass filter on a monthly basis. If you use a pleated filter (recommended), it may last 2-3 months.

Why is my "Emergency Heat" on?

The emergency heat will come on during a defrost cycle or when the temperature in the home falls 2-3 degrees below the thermostat setting. If you are concerned about your emergency heat staying on for long periods of time, call the office for a diagnostic service.

What to do when there is ice on the outside coil?

The defrost cycle should initiate every 90-minutes. If ice remains on the coil for more than 3-hours (two defrost cycles), there is a problem with the equipment and you should contact the office for service.

How often does freon need to be added to my unit?

You should never need to add freon to your unit. The systems are sealed, freon only escapes through a leak. Freon does not go bad over time. If you have been advised to add freon to your unit, please call the office so a reliable service technician may locate the leak in your system and advise on repair options.

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