Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have my A/C and heating equipment inspected?
Once a year your equipment should be checked. The A/C should be checked in the spring and your heating unit in the fallin fact
How often should filters be cleaned or replaced?
Typically, filters should be cleaned or replaced once a month. However, if you have inside pets you need to check your filter more frequently. Restricted air flow will reduce the amount of cooling capacity from your unit.
What do rating numbers mean?
The U.S. government requires an efficiency rating of all air conditioning and heating equipment. The rating reflects the percentage of energy used efficiently, with a high rating indicating high-efficiency. The next two topics address this issue in greater detail.
What is a SEER?
Air conditioning equipment is rated by the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating, or SEER. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit.
What does HSPF stand for?
Heat pump equipment in the heating mode is rated by the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor, or HSPF. The higher the HSPF rating, the more efficient the unit.
What does AFUE stand for?
There are special names for the efficiency ratings of various types of equipment. Gas furnaces are rated according to their Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, or AFUE. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the unit.
Should outdoor units be covered in winter?
No. RUUD heat pumps operate year-round and should never be covered. Similarly, air conditioners that operate seasonally are built to withstand an outdoor environment and should not be covered.
Should a thermostat be set to "auto" or "'on"?
Preferably auto. That way, the fan operates only when the temperature requires it. (This is the most used and the most efficient setting.)
Can shrubs or flowers be planted around an outdoor unit?
Yes. However, we recommend that plants be no closer than 18 inches to the unit. This allows for plenty of room for air circulation in and out of the unit. Without this room for air circulation, the unit could overheat, resulting in a premature need for service.
If an outdoor unit needs replacing, should the indoor unit be replaced too?
If the indoor coils fairly new and if the coil is able to match up with the high efficent A/C then it isn't necessary.
How do I know what size unit our house needs?
There are many factors to consider before making a recommendation. Factors like … size of the house, climate, the number and type of windows installed, insulation, and even the number of people living in the house.
What is the difference between a split system and a package unit?
A split system uses indoor and outdoor components to provide a complete home comfort system. A package unit or self-contained unit requires no external coils, air handlers, or heating units.
