FAQs

Sometimes homeowners turn the fan switch to “on” versus “auto,” which causes your indoor fan to run continuously. Turn the switch to “auto” and your fan should stop running continuously.

Yes, there are a couple. The first is that you get constant filtering of the air in your home. The second is that because the air is moving, you have a more even temperature throughout the home. However, continuous fan mode during the cooling season may not be appropriate in humid climates. If the inside of your home feels uncomfortably humid, it is recommended that your fan be used in “auto” mode.

A matched system is important for a variety of reasons. One is comfort. When all our components are properly sized to your home, you can control exactly how much heating or cooling you need so you can relax.

Also, a properly-sized matched system enables every component to perform as designed, meaning proper cycle times are maintained, humidity is controlled, and system sound is minimized.

Another reason matched systems are important is efficiency. Most people buy systems that are too large for their homes, meaning they pay to heat and cool space that isn’t even there.

A matched system outlined by a dealer who has completed a load calculation for your home provides just the right amount of heating and cooling you need so you get the most value for your utility dollar.

While a heat pump is perfectly capable of effectively heating your home, the temperature of the air coming out of the registers is heated to about 90 to 95 degrees, depending on the outdoor temperature.

This temperature is approximately 20 – 25 degrees warmer than the indoor air temperature and will warm your house. It is, however, below body temperature (98.6 degrees) and can feel cool when someone puts their hand in the airflow.

Under normal operating conditions, auxiliary heat is brought on automatically by the thermostat when the indoor temperature drops during heat pump operation. There are also times during cold, wet weather when the outdoor coil may ice up and your heat pump will go into a defrost cycle.

This is nothing more than reversing the process back to cooling mode. Cooling mode makes the outdoor coil hot and melts any ice. The defrost cycle should only last a few minutes and then return to heating mode.

During the defrost cycle, your comfort system is in cooling mode and the supply air is cool. To offset this cool air, the auxiliary heat will be energized during defrost. A mist or fog may be visible from the outdoor unit during defrost.

On average, a furnace or air conditioner will last 10 – 20 years. Sometimes it pays to replace the old system sooner because of the higher efficiency (lower gas and electric bills) provided by newer equipment.

Life expediencies can vary greatly. The major factors influencing life expectancy are proper installation and regular maintenance. Maintenance is a must to maximize efficiency and protect your investment.

Yes! A new 14 SEER air conditioner or heat pump could save you as much as 50% on your operating cost of the system. 14 SEER is the minimum efficiency standard allowed by law.

Depending on your current operating costs, high-efficiency systems could save you even more. Newer gas furnaces are 30 – 40% more efficient than some older models. With rising gas prices, this could mean big savings.

What is SEER?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The size of an air conditioner is rated in BTU or tons, however the efficiency is rated in SEER.
This ratio is calculated as cooling output divided by the power input for the average U.S. climate. It’s like MPG (miles per gallon) in a car – the higher the MPG (or SEER) the lower the gasoline (electricity) bill.

A heat pump is an electric powered piece of equipment that both heats and cools your home. In the summer, a heat pump is no different than an air conditioner. In the winter, a heat pump operates in reverse and heats the indoors.

Heat pumps need auxiliary heat (electric heat or gas furnace) to help them when it is very cold (i.e. below 42 degrees) or when the thermostat is moved more than 2 – 3 degrees at a time.

The initial investment for a heat pump is higher than for an air conditioner, and the ductwork must be exactly right for proper operation. One common complaint of a heat pump is that the air coming out of the registers is not hot enough (compared to a gas furnace).

With all their drawbacks, heat pumps will reduce the winter heating bills. However, the savings compared to heating with gas is dramatic, and you will probably want to stay with a heat pump.

-Check to see if the dealer possesses all of the appropriate licensing for installing HVAC equipment in your state and local area.
-Ask how long they have been in business; if they offer 24/7 service, financing, or accept credit cards.
-Ask the steps they will take to install your equipment. A proper installation will follow the 3-part process on previous page.
-A dealer coming into your home should do more than just inspect your existing system. -Follow them around to see if they are checking air flow, inspecting the duct system, making note of the windows and the direction your home faces, etc.
-Be wary of anyone who shoots you an estimate on the back of a business card after being in your home for a few minutes, or even over the phone.
-A knowledgeable dealer that has your best interest in mind will ask about your experiences in the home; how long you have lived there, how long you plan to stay, if you have pets, allergies, smokers, hot and cold spots, noise, etc.
-A dealer with the tools to address these problems will offer viable solutions such as air cleaners, zoning equipment, programmable thermostats, humidifiers, variable speed and two-stage technology, etc. If they do not offer these solutions, they may not be the right dealer for you!
-It takes more time to complete an installation when done correctly. Expect to pay more for comprehensive service, but much less in the long run for your system’s performance and maintenance.
-Typically, manufacturer warranties cover the replacement of faulty components for a limited time. Failure due to poor installation is typically not warranted by manufacturers. Choose a dealer who will do a good job the first time and be around to assist you as needed.

With proper maintenance, most central AC systems last 10–15 years. Factors such as summer workload, maintenance history, and installation quality all affect lifespan.

System size depends on square footage, insulation levels, window placement, and ductwork condition. A properly sized system is critical—an oversized unit can short cycle, while an undersized unit may struggle to cool during hot, humid days in the Chattanooga area.

Airflow restrictions, refrigerant issues, thermostat problems, or aging components can cause this. If your system is running continuously but your home isn’t cooling evenly, it’s best to have it inspected before the issue worsens.

Yes, ductless systems are an excellent solution for additions, garages, offices, or homes without ductwork. They provide targeted cooling and can improve comfort in specific zones without modifying your entire system.

SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2) measures how efficiently a cooling system operates. Higher SEER2 ratings generally mean improved energy efficiency and lower operating costs, which is especially important during long, humid Tennessee summers.

Most heating systems should be professionally maintained once a year, ideally before the colder months arrive. Annual maintenance helps ensure your system operates efficiently and reduces the risk of breakdowns during peak winter use across the Chattanooga area.

Most furnaces, heat pumps, and packaged heating systems last about 10–15 years with proper maintenance. Factors such as usage level, maintenance history, and installation quality all affect how long a system continues to perform reliably.

Common warning signs include uneven heating, unusual noises, frequent cycling, higher energy bills, or a system that struggles to start. Addressing these issues early can prevent larger and more expensive repairs.

Heat pumps and packaged HVAC systems are especially common in the Chattanooga area, particularly in homes with crawl spaces. Packaged units combine heating and cooling components into a single outdoor system, making them a practical solution for homes with limited indoor mechanical space.

Packaged units are often chosen because they house all system components in a single outdoor cabinet, saving indoor space and simplifying installation. They work well for homes with crawl spaces and are available in both heat pump and gas/electric configurations with various efficiency options.

Yes. Modern heat pumps are engineered to deliver efficient heating even when outdoor temperatures drop. They’re widely used throughout the Chattanooga area because they provide both heating and cooling in a single, convenient system.

Dust, allergens, airflow, and the condition of your ductwork influence indoor air quality. Poor air duct quality, clogged filters, and buildup inside the system can all contribute to reduced IAQ and overall comfort.

Air duct testing is typically recommended every few years, or anytime you notice airflow issues, rising energy bills, or uneven temperatures. Homes in the Chattanooga area may benefit from more frequent testing due to year-round system use.

Signs include visible dust around vents, increased allergy symptoms, musty odors, or reduced airflow. If buildup is present inside the duct system, professional cleaning can help restore proper airflow and improve indoor air quality.

Yes. Duct sealing helps prevent air leaks, which improves airflow, increases efficiency, and supports better indoor air quality. Sealed ducts also help ensure conditioned air reaches the intended areas of your home.

Standard duct tape is not designed for long-term duct sealing and can break down over time, especially with temperature changes. Professional sealing materials are made to last and provide a more reliable solution for improving air duct quality.

Yes. Whole-home air cleaners are designed to capture airborne particles such as dust, pollen, and other contaminants. When properly installed and maintained, they can significantly improve IAQ and overall comfort inside your home.

If your system is struggling to maintain consistent temperatures, requires frequent repairs, or is driving up energy bills, it may be time to consider a replacement. Smaller issues can often be repaired, but ongoing problems usually indicate aging equipment.

Many businesses rely on packaged rooftop units because they combine heating and cooling into a single system and work well for a wide range of building types. These systems are especially common for both light commercial and larger facilities.

Most commercial HVAC systems last around 15–20 years, depending on usage, maintenance, and system type. Packaged rooftop units may experience more wear due to outdoor exposure, but can still provide reliable performance with proper care.

Higher energy costs can be caused by reduced system efficiency, aging components, or airflow issues. As systems wear down, they often have to work harder to maintain the same level of comfort.

Yes. A properly installed system can improve airflow, maintain more consistent temperatures, and eliminate hot and cold spots throughout your space. This leads to a more comfortable environment for employees and customers.

Key factors include building size, layout, usage, and the type of system that best fits your needs. Packaged rooftop units are often a practical solution because they are efficient, space-saving, and easier to service.

Most systems in the Chattanooga area should be serviced once per year, ideally in the spring before peak summer heat arrives. Regular maintenance helps reduce breakdowns during heavy use across the Chattanooga area and keeps your system operating efficiently.