Here are the questions we most frequently get about HVAC-related issues from our customers. Have a question we haven’t covered here? Contact us.
What is a heat pump?
A heat pump is part of a heating and cooling system and is installed outside your home. Like an air conditioner, it can cool your home, but it’s also capable of providing heat. In cooler months, a heat pump pulls heat from the cold outdoor air and transfers it indoors, and in warmer months, it pulls heat out of indoor air to cool your home. They are powered by electricity and transfer heat using refrigerant to provide comfort all year round. Because they handle both cooling and heating, homeowners may not need to install separate systems to heat their homes. In colder climates, an electric heat strip can be added to the indoor fan coil for additional capabilities. Heat pumps do not burn fossil fuel like furnaces do, making them more environmentally friendly.
How can I improve my home’s indoor air quality?
As many studies show, air pollution is much worse indoors than outdoors, making air quality a major concern. HVAC systems distribute air that could contain viruses, allergens, mold, bacteria, fungi, odors, smoke or other harmful particulate matter. Poor indoor air quality has been linked to many illnesses, so improving your home’s air quality is an investment worth making. Jay Moody HVAC technicians are qualified to install devices which use cold plasma and UV light to neutralize or remove harmful elements in your indoor air. Find additional information here:
If I replace my outdoor unit, do I need to also replace my indoor unit?
Typically, the answer is yes. Most air conditioner and heat pump outdoor units are manufactured to work with a matched indoor unit. Mismatched units can result in reduced efficiency and performance.
If you purchased your indoor and outdoor units simultaneously, your indoor unit will potentially be approaching the end of its useful life at about the same time as the outdoor unit. If you choose to replace only one portion, you are basically delaying the inevitable and likely paying higher energy bills as a result.
By purchasing indoor and outdoor units together, you will get a warranty covering the whole system, so you will not have to cover the full cost of any needed repairs to your unit during the warranty period.
How does Jay Moody HVAC determine what size system to install?
Jay Moody HVAC will measure your home and calculate the actual heating and cooling load on the home (calculation based on window size and direction, walls, ceiling, floor, appliances, insulation, etc). This will be compared to your current equipment and duct work and will be adjusted. Jay Moody technicians always take the time to listen to a homeowner’s needs and determine appropriate equipment based on a combination of calculations and lifestyle.
Is there a charge for diagnosing my system?
There is a diagnostic rate of $150.00 for the first hour. This covers the transportation fee to get to your home and take a look at your system. Typically, within this hour, the technician will be able to explain to you what is malfunctioning and often times even be able to fix it within that same hour. Anything over 1 hour will be billed at our normal rate of $105.00/hour plus parts.
