Answers to Many of Your Pressing HVAC Questions

As East Texas’s trusted authority on all things HVAC, Ferrara’s fields a lot of questions about heat pumps, ACs, air filtration and more. We’ve gathered some of the most frequently asked questions here so everyone can see our responses. Enjoy!

• How Often Do Air Filters Need to Be Changed?

  Generally speaking, filters should be changed once a month, though it depends on the air quality inside of your home. HVAC systems using pleated filters may be able to go three months before needing a filter change.

• Do Bigger Air Conditioning Units Perform Better?

  Not necessarily. Your system should be sized for your home to properly cool and dehumidify.

• How Long Does HVAC Equipment Last?

  With proper maintenance, it can last 10 to 15 years and possibly longer.

• If I Have an Older System, Can I Save Money by Just Replacing the Outdoor Unit?

  The system components need to be matched to work at their best. Plus, older systems may use a different refrigerant than newer equipment.

• How Often Should I Have My Air Conditioning Unit Serviced?

  We recommend homeowners sign up for two checkups every year—one in the spring ahead of the hot summer months and one in the fall before winter sets in.

• How Can I Improve the Air Quality in My Home?

  Your air filter will remove plenty of dust, pollen and other pollutants if you remember to clean or replace it regularly. If that’s not enough, Ferrara’s can install other products, such as UV lamps and air purifiers, to destroy germs, bacteria and other harmful microbes.

• What Is a Heat Pump?

  A heat pump transfers heat between two places. In the summer, it pulls heat out of your house and forces it outside, leaving your indoor space cool. In winter, it draws warm air inside so you stay nice and toasty.

• What Setting Should I Use on My Thermostat?

  Set your thermostat to a temperature you find comfortable. For the best energy savings, remember to lower it a few degrees in the winter or raise it a few degrees in the summer. Bigger swings in temperature will strain your HVAC system when you return, wiping out your energy savings.

• Is R-22 Refrigerant Being Discontinued?

  R-22 has been phased out. It can still be used, but several replacements are available at a lower cost.

• What Can I Do If My System Doesn’t Work Well in Certain Rooms?

  This may be a sign of duct work problems or improperly designed duct work. A Ferrara’s technician can inspect your system and determine the best way to improve the airflow in your property.

• What Is the Benefit of a Humidifier?

  Dry air can be uncomfortable, create static electricity and potentially lead to sinus problems. Humidifiers pump moisture into the air to avoid those problems. They’re especially useful in the winter months when the air is driest.

• Does a Gas Furnace Work Without Electricity?

  No. Electricity is needed to operate valves and motors in the furnace.

• What Causes AC Units to Freeze Up?

  Several things can lead to ice forming on your AC, including dirty filters or coils, low refrigerant levels and failed blowers.

• Why Don’t You Charge by the Hour?

  Our set prices allow us to provide more accurate job estimates. Hourly billing can lead to surprise bills if a project takes longer than expected.

• What Brands Do You Install and Service?

  We mainly install Trane and Ruud products, but our experienced technicians can service all brands.

Have More HVAC Questions? Fire Away!

Have a question we didn’t address here? We’d be happy to share our insights with residents of Angelina County, TX, and the rest of East Texas. Send us your questions through our online contact form or give us a call at 936.221.5938.