Frequently Asked Questions

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning. The main purpose of HVAC is to provide thermal comfort, and optimum indoor air quality. HVAC systems can provide ventilation, reduce air infiltration, and maintain pressure relationships between spaces.

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It is a measure of the efficiency of your air conditioning system to cool your building. The higher the SEER of your air conditioner, the more efficient it is at cooling. For example,  a 16 SEER air conditioner will use less energy vs a 14 SEER air conditioner of the same size.

EER, or Energy Efficiency Ratio, measures the energy efficiency of an air conditioner or heat pump. A higher EER rating means your air conditioner is more energy efficient — and that’s a good thing! An energy-efficient AC will save you money on your utility bills and leave a small carbon footprint in the process.

For optimal comfort and energy efficiency, set your thermostat to 78°F (25-26°C) when you’re at home and awake, and raise it by a few degrees when you’re away. During hotter months, maintaining a higher thermostat setting can reduce energy costs while still keeping your home cool.

Installing an air conditioner requires technical knowledge, and improper installation can lead to system inefficiency or damage. It’s highly recommended to hire us at Elsmar Air to ensure the unit is installed correctly and safely, and to avoid voiding the warranty.

It depends on how frequently you use your air conditioning system. Air filters should be checked frequently and changed whenever there is dust and dirt present on its surface. We recommend changing your filters at least once every 30 days.

Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the condition of the air inside your home or business, particularly in relation to the health and comfort of the occupants. An HVAC system plays a crucial role in maintaining IAQ by regulating airflow, filtering out pollutants, and controlling humidity levels.

Your HVAC system affects indoor air quality by circulating and filtering air throughout your home. If the filters are dirty or the system is not well-maintained, it can distribute dust, allergens, and pollutants into the air. Proper filtration, regular maintenance, and using air purifiers or Germicidal UV Lights can help improve IAQ.

Common indoor air pollutants include dust, pet dander, mold spores, pollen, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from paints and cleaners, smoke, and carbon dioxide. These pollutants can negatively affect respiratory health, allergies, and overall comfort.

ou can improve IAQ by:

• Replacing or cleaning air filters regularly (at least every 1-3 months).
• Installing a high-efficiency air purifier or HEPA filter in your HVAC system.
• Ensuring proper ventilation by using exhaust fans or adding ventilation systems.
• Using a dehumidifier or humidifier to maintain balanced humidity levels.
• Having your HVAC system professionally maintained by Elsmar Air to ensure it is operating efficiently.

High-efficiency particulate air filters (HEPA) are the best for improving indoor air quality, as they can capture 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns or larger. However, depending on your HVAC system, a high-MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) filter, usually rated between 8 and 16, may also be a good option for trapping smaller particles.

Ice buildup normally occurs when the refrigerant level is low or your air filter is dirty. Before calling for repair, turn the unit off and allow the ice to melt. Monitor the system to ensure that the water that leaks from the system doesn’t cause any property damage. Replace your air filter then try running the unit again. If it freezes a second time, call Elsmar Air Conditioning to optimize your refrigerant levels and check for leaks.

There could be several reasons for this. Common causes include a tripped breaker, dirty air filters, low refrigerant levels, a faulty thermostat, or a frozen evaporator coil. Check for these issues first, and if the problem persists, it may be best to call a professional technician.

If your AC is running but not cooling, the issue may be due to low refrigerant, a frozen evaporator coil, or a blocked condenser. It could also be caused by a malfunctioning thermostat or dirty air filters. It’s a good idea to check these elements and call a professional if necessary.

To improve your AC’s efficiency, make sure the air filters are clean, the condenser unit is free of debris, and there are no leaks in your ductwork. Regular maintenance, like professional cleaning and servicing, can also help keep your system running at peak efficiency.

If your AC is blowing warm air or not cooling effectively, it could be a sign that the refrigerant is low. A professional technician can measure refrigerant levels and check for leaks to ensure your system is charged correctly. It’s important not to attempt handling refrigerant yourself, as it’s a regulated substance.

If your AC is making loud noises, it could be due to a number of issues, such as a dirty condenser, loose components, or a problem with the fan or compressor. It’s essential to have a technician inspect the system to diagnose and resolve the issue before it leads to further damage.

If your AC is freezing up, it’s likely due to restricted airflow caused by dirty filters or a clogged evaporator coil. Turn off the system to allow it to thaw, and check the filters and coils for dirt. If cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue, contact Elsmar Air to check for refrigerant leaks or other problems.

Signs of an underperforming air conditioner include uneven cooling, inconsistent temperatures, poor airflow, unusual noises, or higher-than-usual energy bills. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to have your system inspected by a Elsmar Air Conditioning.

An AC can stop working due to several factors, including electrical issues, a malfunctioning thermostat, dirty filters, low refrigerant levels, a clogged condenser, or a broken compressor. Regular maintenance can help prevent most of these problems and ensure your system runs smoothly.

While your equipment may be working and reliable now, a Preventive Maintenance Plan will keep it that way. Just like your car needs scheduled maintenance or your body needs regular checkups, your heating and cooling system also needs regular maintenance in order to keep it running reliably and efficiently. Many manufacturers require maintenance for you in order to keep your parts and labor warranty valid.

It’s best to have your air conditioning system professionally serviced at least once a year, typically before the start of the cooling season. Regular maintenance ensures that the system runs efficiently, prevents unexpected breakdowns, and helps extend the lifespan of your unit.

Regular air conditioning maintenance ensures that your system runs efficiently, improves its lifespan, and helps avoid costly repairs. It also maintains optimal performance, ensuring your AC keeps cooling your home effectively while saving energy and preventing breakdowns.

A typical AC maintenance service includes tasks such as cleaning or replacing filters, checking refrigerant levels, cleaning the condenser and evaporator coils, inspecting and tightening electrical connections, cleaning the drains, and ensuring proper airflow. It may also involve checking the thermostat and lubricating moving parts.

Signs that your air conditioner may need maintenance include reduced cooling performance, strange noises or smells, higher energy bills, frequent cycling on and off, or water leaks around the system. If you notice any of these, it’s a good idea to schedule a maintenance check.

While you can do basic tasks like changing or cleaning air filters, it’s best to have us at Elsmar Air perform more complex maintenance tasks, such as inspecting refrigerant levels, cleaning coils, and checking electrical components. Professional maintenance ensures your system is running safely and efficiently.

Skipping regular maintenance can lead to a variety of issues, including reduced cooling efficiency, higher energy bills, more frequent breakdowns, and a shortened lifespan for your AC system. Neglecting maintenance can also lead to expensive repairs down the road, as minor issues can turn into major problems over time.

Yes, regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your air conditioning system. Well-maintained systems experience fewer breakdowns and operate more efficiently, which helps avoid premature wear and tear. Typically, a well-maintained AC can last 15-20 years.