FAQs – Home Air Conditioning Information
What is the SEER Rating?
The SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) is how the efficiency of your heating and cooling equipment is measured. The SEER is the amount of cooling your system will deliver per dollar spent on electricity, when compared to other systems. As of January 1, 2015, the US Department of Energy set a minimum requirement of 13 or 14 SEER (depending on the state) for new split system central air conditioner installations. The higher the SEER the more efficient the system will be as it cools your home.
Why is the SEER rating on the Energy Guide different from what my dealer quoted?
Each split system cooling unit has a nominal SEER rating. This rating can be increased with the upgrade of the same series indoor unit. The SEER rating of a system is derived based on the combination of equipment installed in the home. The outdoor equipment (heat pump or air conditioner), as well as the indoor equipment (evaporator coil and furnace, or air handler), play a vital role in the total rating.
Why should I have regular (or preventive) maintenance and how often do I need it?
Your heating and cooling systems work incredibly hard to perform their functions for your home every day. The constant stopping, starting, and continual operation can wear down any machine if the proper care and maintenance are delayed. However, by performing regular maintenance, you can maximize the service life of your heating or cooling unit and guard against many common equipment failures. Preventive maintenance inspections performed on a regular basis can uncover leaks, rust, rot, soot, frayed wires, and corroded electrical contacts that the naked eye may not notice. You should have maintenance done on your system regularly to ensure maximum efficiency and prevent possible problems that could occur because of lack of timely inspection.
Which equipment requires regular (or preventive) maintenance?
At least once a year heat pumps, air conditioners, and furnaces require a professional tune-up. Inspections on boiler and furnace systems should include ductwork, pipes, dampers, valves, the chimney, registers, radiators, pumps, blowers, fuel lines, the gas meter, oil tank and every part of the actual furnace and boiler. Meanwhile, heat pump and air conditioning unit inspections should also include inspections of the fan, compressor, indoor coils, outdoor coils, line kits and refrigerant lines.
I need help troubleshooting a problem with my equipment.
As your local Carrier dealer, Maxx A/C & Heating is your troubleshooting expert, and is glad to help you. In addition, Carrier also provides a network of troubleshooting technicians at Carrier Distribution centers across the country which Maxx A/C & Heating will utilize to solve your concern. Should we encounter a situation that requires additional factory help, we will contact our factory supported Service Manager(s) for assistance.
What are the advantages of a programmable thermostat?
Since they are electronic, programmable thermostats are more accurate and efficient than thermostats that contain mercury. With programmable thermostats, you can control the temperature in your home at different times of day without ever touching your thermostat. Because everything is automated, you can set temperatures in advance so you won’t have to worry about remembering to make constant updates.
What type of filter should I use and how often should I replace it?
Standard filters work, but they don’t really improve indoor air quality. To do that you need a media filter. The media filter rests between the main return duct and the blower cabinet and will improve dust and particle removal by seven times that of a standard filter. Upgrading to a pleated media filter will remove everything from insecticide dust to airborne viruses from the filtered air. Always choose a filter that matches your blower’s capacity. For optimum efficiency and filtration, Maxx A/C & Heating recommends that you replace your disposable filters at least once a month. If you have washable filters, they should be checked once a month.
Why can’t I find the correct size furnace filter at my local home improvement store for my Carrier Brand Equipment?
The filter shipped with your Carrier unit is made from higher-quality materials than those of the disposable filters found in retail stores. For that reason, replacement Carrier filters can only be purchased through a Carrier dealer. However, keep in mind that some Carrier filters are reusable, and can be washed by hand in cold water.
Where can I get parts for my Carrier equipment?
As a Carrier dealer, Maxx A/C & Heating is the best resource for identifying and supplying the correct, current parts for your system/ You also benefit from great pricing and better product availability.
Which Carrier equipment will best fit my home?
There are many factors that affect the sizing and specifications of your system, including square footage, insulation, window surface and configuration, geographic location of your home, and duct sizing and arrangement. Maxx A/C & Heating can perform an in-home load analysis to determine which equipment combinations will perfectly suit your home and your family’s needs. Depending upon the construction of your home, one (1) ton of air conditioning can cool anywhere from 300 to 800 square feet. The only way to ensure the system you purchase is the right size for your home, is to have your home’s individual heating and cooling needs evaluated by a licensed professional.
What does my warranty cover?
Under the standard factory warranty, Carrier covers parts that fail during the warranty period due to defects. The warranty does not cover labor. A warranty certificate was included with your homeowner information packet and is specific to the model numbers, serial numbers and installation dates of your products. If you cannot find your warranty certificate, Maxx A/C & Heating will also be able to provide you with the information.
What is the life expectancy of my unit?
Carrier products are among the longest lasting heating and cooling products available. For your specific equipment, there are many variables that affect life expectancy, including, of course, investing in routine maintenance.
