At Method Air, our team is always happy to answer any heating and cooling related questions you may have. Here are a few of the most common questions we get from our customers in Draper, UT:
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do I need to change my air filter?
Depending on the type of filter you are using, they should be changed between 30-90 days. If you are using a “cheaper” filter, then you will want to replace it every 30 days. Higher grade filters can be changed every 90 days and there are other options that can last up to a year.
What does HVAC stand for?
HVAC is an abbreviation for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
HVAC experts use this abbreviation to refer to whole-home heating and cooling systems, which may include one or more of the following:
- Comfort controls like thermostats and home zoning systems.
- Air conditioners, furnace, and heat pumps.
- Indoor air quality systems like air filters, air filtration systems, whole-house humidifiers and dehumidifiers, and UV sanitizers.
Why is my HVAC noisy?
It’s common for HVAC systems to make some noise when in use. However, if you hear loud or unusual noises like rattling, banging, or hissing coming from your unit, it might mean that there’s a problem with your equipment. Give our HVAC technicians a call for repair services.
What is an AC SEER rating?
A SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating predicts your central AC, heat pump, or mini-split AC unit's energy input and output.
It is calculated by taking the total cooling output and dividing it by the total energy input of an AC unit over one year. The higher an AC unit’s SEER rating, the more energy-efficient it is.
The Department of Energy (DOE) requires a minimum SEER rating of 13 for all AC units manufactured after 2005. Energy Star-labeled AC units also must have a SEER rating of at least 14 and utilize 8% less energy than other AC units.
What is a heat pump?
A heat pump is a heating and air conditioning combination. They can be installed with different systems to keep your home comfortable year-round. During hotter temperatures, a heat pump works by pulling warmer air out of your home, replacing it with cooler air. During the winter it pulls heat from the outside air to warm your home. It’s a great way to save energy, reducing electrical costs by as much as 75%.
What does an air sanitizer do?
Sanitizer use UV light or germicidal irradiation to kill bacteria, mold, and other airborne viruses. If you are worried about illnesses or other worries, a sanitizer is the best choice for you.
Why does my furnace sometimes emit a burning smell?
Over the summer, dust may collect on your furnace. As winter approaches and you turn on your furnace for the first time, the dust will burn and create that characteristic burning smell.
The best way to avoid this situation is to schedule a professional cleaning, filter replacement, and maintenance service in the fall. Our HVAC technicians are happy to ensure your unit runs safely and efficiently during winter.
Will my ceiling fan stop my AC from running?
No. Ceiling fans do not lower the temperature of your home. They use electricity to move air around your home so that it feels cooler on your skin. Using a ceiling fan can make your indoor spaces feel cooler, enabling you to adjust your thermostat up by a few degrees and lower your utility bills.
How often should I have my furnace/AC unit serviced?
To save you on repair costs and energy, your air conditioner should be serviced at least once a year. That way, you can confront any smaller problems before they become bigger and more expensive to fix. Even if your AC unit is working smoothly, having a yearly service helps to ensure a longer-lasting system.
What’s the best setting for my thermostat?
Our recommendation is to run it higher during the summer and lower during the winter. Finding the right balance to make sure your home feels comfortable can help you lower energy costs.
Should I replace my ductwork?
If you find that your home is not being cooled or heated properly, the first step is to check the ductwork and ensure that it is properly sealed and giving the correct amount of airflow to each room. If you are in an older home and your ductwork hasn’t been changed in 40-50 years, you will need to replace it. Installing a new ductwork system will make your system run more efficiently and lower any extra costs.
What is a furnace AFUE rating?
AFUE is an abbreviation for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. This rating measures the thermal efficiency of a furnace. For instance, a furnace with a 93 AFUE rating means that this furnace will convert 93% of the fuel to heat, with the remaining 7% lost to venting.
What does an air purifier do?
An air purifier uses a fan to pull in pollutants into an air filter and then circulates the purified air back into the room. You will need to replace the filter every 3 months.
Why does my AC coil keep freezing over?
If you are running your ac system and not getting any cold air blowing out, you could have a frozen coil. The most common reason for your ac coil to freeze over is a lack of airflow. Usually, this means that your filter needs to be changed or you have some problems in your duct work.
How do I fix a frozen coil?
If you think you may have a frozen coil, turn off your thermostat’s cooling setting and run the fan only. This brings air over the coil and helps to unfreeze it. This process takes a few hours. If you have a heat pump, you can turn on the defrost mode. Lastly, your AC unit may have its own instructions to de-ice your coil. If you’re still having problems, call the professionals at Method Air.
How can I improve my home’s dry air?
If you are dealing with dry and scratchy skin, throats, and/or sinuses, installing a humidifier in your home can help add moisture to your air during Utah’s dry winter climates.
Do you provide emergency repair services?
Yes. Our experts are available for heating and cooling repair 24 hours a day. If you’re experiencing problems with your HVAC system and live in Utah, Salt Lake, or Davis County, contact our team at Method Air. One of our experienced technicians will be along ASAP to help you.