Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I have heard from friends that I should stay away from buying a high efficient furnace because they have more problems. Is this true?

The difference between an 80% furnace and a 90%+ furnace is that the 90%+ has a secondary heat exchanger to transfer more heat into the home thus making it more efficient. The 90%+ furnace is also known as a condensing furnace. This means it produces a small amount of water as a result of having much lower flue gas temperatures. This condensation is carried away through a drain line on the furnace. If the furnace is installed properly and regular maintenance is performed then the answer is 'False'. The answer would be true if you could still purchase a 50-year-old furnace today.

Q: How do I know what size system my home requires when each contractor has recommended a different size?

This is always a tough one to answer because even if a contractor performs a 'Manual J' heat load, they can make compensations within the program to obtain the end result they are seeking. Keep in mind there are only 4 - 5 different sized furnaces each manufacturer produces and you want to install the size closest to your needs without being too small! As a close rule of thumb, you can multiply the square footage of your home which is above ground by the ceiling height to obtain your total cubic feet of airspace. Multiply that number by (4) if your home is 20 years or newer. Multiply by (4.5) if your home is 20 - 30 years old and multiply by (5) if it is over 30 years old. This answer will be the minimum Btu Output rating your home needs, not to be confused with the Btu Input rating.

Q: What brand of equipment should I choose to install?

When you call some companies, they will quote you a low price upfront, usually called a 'trip' or 'travel' charge, and then state that they don't know what the repair charge is for the item you're requesting even when they have flat-rate pricing. Beware! They usually want to get the opportunity to get in your home and quote you a price much higher than most other HVAC companies will charge. An honest company will always tell you a very close total cost before going out to your home.

Question 1

Q: What Heating and Cooling System Size Do I Need?

Answer

The heating and cooling system you need depends on the size of your space, and it is vital to get the right size. If your unit is too big, it will heat or cool your home too quickly, leading to auto-shut offs that increase your bills and decrease the unit's lifespan. If your unit is too small, it will always have to be on and overworked, leading to the same results. We’re happy to help you decide what system size and type is right for your home or business. Give us a call!

Question 2

Q: How Often Should I Have My HVAC System Checked?

Answer

Ideally, you should have your heating and cooling system checked at least once a year. During our visit, we will carry out a thorough inspection of your HVAC system's general condition as well as check specific components such as capacitors, thermostats, and blower motors to ascertain that they are working. These maintenance checks save you the hassle and expense of emergency visits, especially in winter.

Question 3

Q: Should Air Vents Be Covered in Winter?

Answer

Illinois winters can be harsh. However, we do not recommend covering air vents in winter as doing so can lead to condenser and other internal component damage. Besides, these parts can withstand the harsh weather, so you can rest easy knowing that your unit will work just fine.

Question 4

Q: How Often Should I Change My Air Filter?

Answer

Every air filter is different! However, we do recommend changing your filter every 30 to 45 days to keep your HVAC unit functioning optimally and keep the quality of your indoor air high.

Question 5

Q: Is Hydro-Jetting Safe for My Pipes?

Answer

Hydro jetting is a process that blasts high-pressure water inside a pipe from all angles to remove clogs and debris. Although the process is thorough, it will not damage your pipes, as long as you have professionals carrying out the process. Additionally, hydro-jetting does not use chemicals, so it is a non-caustic, eco-friendly method to clear your pipes.

Question 6

Q: Why Is Whole-Home Repiping Necessary?

Answer

Whole-home repairing is necessary:

When planning a remodel of your kitchen or bathroom.
To maintain water quality in your home.
To replace multiple old or worn-out pipes that are beyond repair.

Common signs that you need whole-house repiping include water discoloration, rust spots on your laundry, or water coming out at a lower pressure than usual. While not all call-outs result in whole-home repiping, our technicians will advise you on the next steps if any of the signs above are present.

Question 7

Q: What Size Garbage Disposal Do I Need?

Answer

Every homeowner has different needs when it comes to their kitchen plumbing and garbage disposal system. As a rule, the more people living in the home, and the more the volume of food waste created, the larger the garbage disposal needed. Standard garbage disposal sizes include:

1/3 HP
1/2 HP
3/4 HP
1 HP
2 HP and above!

Before settling on a specific garbage disposal system, you'll also need to consider how often you'll be using your unit to ensure it lives up to your home's daily demands.