Frequently Asked Questions

January 10, 2024

General Questions

Why should I perform preventive maintenance?

This question is twofold. You’ll want to perform preventative maintenance to protect your warranty and make sure the system lasts to full potential.

Should I have my equipment serviced?

Yes, we recommend that you get your equipment serviced annually.

What size heating and air conditioning system do I need?/What is the proper size HVAC system for my home?

The size of your system really depends on your home and your needs. To help you make this decision we offer free in-home energy consultations. We will perform load calculations to confirm we are properly sizing your new equipment. Feel free to give us a call to schedule your consultation today! 1-877-BRENNAN

What type of heating and air conditioning system should I get?/How can I find the system that’s right for me?

To find the perfect heating and cooling system for you we recommend one of our free in-home energy consultations. Feel free to give us a call to schedule your consultation today! 1-877-BRENNAN

What is the best way to heat and cool my home?

The best way to heat and cool really depends on what fuels are available at your home.

What indoor air quality (IAQ) solutions do you offer?

We offer Merv. 11, Merv. 16 and Air Purification.

Will I need a building permit?

Yes. A permit is required on all equipment installations. We provide all permits required from mechanical to electrical (if applicable) and gas piping (if applicable).

Why should I purchase a new heating or air conditioning system?

You should purchase a new heating or air conditioning system so that you can maintain optimum comfort year round.

Should I cover my outdoor unit in the fall and winter?

No, since units are designed to be outside they do not need a cover.

What is the most efficient way to run my heating and cooling system?

The most efficient way to run a heating and cooling system is to just leave it on. Take advantage of your programmable thermostat where you don’t have to worry about turning the system off or on, just let the programming do the work.

HVAC Questions

What is inverter or variable speed cooling?

An inverter and variable speed cooling are two different types of compressors.

What is modulating heating?

Modulating heating is the gas valve.

Should I zone my house?

No, zoned duct systems can be tricky and are frequently done wrong.

What is a “properly matched” system?

This all depends on size of house and ductwork.

What is AFUE?

AFUE is 80% efficiency of the furnace.

What is HSPF?

HSPF stands for Heating Seasonal Performance Factor.

What is AHRI?

AHRI is a website that gives ratings on the equipment.

Air Filter Questions

How often should I check/replace/clean my air filter?
You should check your air filter anywhere from 3 months-1 year depending on the filter and where you live.

Air Conditioning Questions

How does the phaseout of R-22 (Freon) affect me?

Since R-22 has been phased out, parts and refrigerant are hard to come by which often make them quite expensive.

Should I purchase a new system with R-410A refrigerant?

Yes, when it comes time to repair your system, parts and refrigerant will be a lot more reasonably priced.

What is the difference between R-22 and R-410A refrigerants?

R-22 is the older refrigerant used in air conditioning units. R-410A is not only newer, but it is also more environmentally friendly.

What is two-stage cooling?

In two-stage cooling there’s a low stage and high stage.

How long will the system last?

Depending on general maintenance, systems can last anywhere from 10-20 years. To last as long as possible, we highly recommend an annual general maintenance.

What is the minimum energy efficiency standard for air conditioners in WA?

The minimum energy efficiency standard for air conditioners in WA is 13 SEER.

What should I know about changes in refrigerants?

R-22 is no longer available, R-410A is the standard replacement.

Furnace Questions

How does a variable-speed furnace benefit me?

A variable-speed furnace benefits you on the cost and noise of running the system.

How long will the system last?

Depending on general maintenance, systems can last anywhere from 10-20 years. To last as long as possible, we highly recommend an annual general maintenance.

Heat Pump Questions

How will I know when it’s time to replace my Heat Pump?

It is time to replace your heat pump when it won’t work anymore, it’s 15 years or older, or if it’s a R-22 unit.

My present Heat Pump does not keep us comfortable. Should I replace it with a larger one?

Not necessarily, larger doesn’t always mean better. You would probably want to look into getting a more efficient variable speed system.

What is the average lifespan of a Heat Pump?

A heat pump can last you between 10 and 20 years, depending on general maintenance. To last as long as possible, we highly recommend an annual general maintenance.

Can I repair my own Heat Pump?

No. We recommend leaving this one to the professionals. If your heat pump needs to be repaired feel free to give us a call at 1-877-BRENNAN

Can I put a cover over my outdoor Heat Pump?

No. If you put a cover on your heat pump and the system turns on, the system will no longer work.

What is a heat pump?

A heat pump is a system that can be reversed to either heat or cool a controlled space.

Need more information? Get in touch with the experts here at Brennan Heating & Air Conditioning!

Contact us today!

Brennan Heating & Cooling icon
Categories: