Frequently Asked Questions
It's generally recommended to change your HVAC filters every 1-3 months. Homes with pets, smokers, or high dust levels may require more frequent changes. Let us recommend a changing schedule for your home and unit.
Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal performance. It's recommended to schedule professional HVAC maintenance with us twice a year, typically in the spring and fall, to prepare for the heavy usage periods of summer and winter. With a Kapala Comfort Rewards membership, we can take care of that for you.
The appropriate size of an HVAC unit depends on various factors, including the size of your home, insulation quality, and the number of rooms. Our HVAC professionals can perform a load calculation to determine the best unit size for your specific needs.
Enhancing energy efficiency can be achieved through several measures:
- Regular maintenance to ensure the system operates efficiently.
- Installing programmable or smart thermostats to optimize temperature settings.
- Ensuring proper insulation and sealing of windows and doors to prevent air leaks.
- Upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC equipment when necessary.
- Using ceiling fans to improve air circulation, reducing the load on the HVAC system.
The average lifespan of an HVAC system ranges from 10 to 15 years. Regular maintenance can help extend this lifespan, while neglect or heavy usage may shorten it.
Several factors can contribute to increased energy bills:
- An HVAC unit running longer due to lack of maintenance or decreased efficiency.
- Dirty or clogged air filters causing the system to work harder.
- Leaks in ductwork leading to loss of conditioned air.
- Thermostat settings that are too extreme, causing the system to operate continuously.
Improving indoor air quality involves several steps:
- Regularly changing air filters to ensure clean air circulation.
- Using air purifiers to remove contaminants.
- Ensuring proper ventilation to allow fresh air exchange.
- Controlling humidity levels to prevent mold growth.
- Keeping living spaces clean and free from dust and allergens.
A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for various times of the day and days of the week. This enables better energy management by reducing heating or cooling when it's not needed, leading to potential cost savings on energy bills.
Uneven temperatures can result from:
- Lack of proper airflow to the room.
- Insufficient insulation in walls or ceilings.
- Windows not properly sealed, allowing drafts.
- Blocked or closed vents restricting air distribution.
Addressing these issues can help achieve a more consistent temperature throughout your home.
Indicators that it might be time to replace your HVAC system include:
- The system is over 10-15 years old.
- Frequent breakdowns requiring costly repairs.
- Increased energy bills despite regular maintenance.
- Uneven heating or cooling in different areas of your home.
- The system uses outdated refrigerants that are being phased out.