HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It refers to systems that regulate indoor temperature, air quality, and humidity for comfort and safety.
These are the most frequently asked questions about HVAC, Sizing, and More. Please feel free to contact us if you don’t see your question answered below.
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It refers to systems that regulate indoor temperature, air quality, and humidity for comfort and safety.
HVAC systems should be professionally serviced at least once per year. Ideally, heating systems are inspected in the fall and cooling systems in the spring.
Furnaces: 15–20 years Air conditioners: 10–15 years | Heat pumps: 10–15 years | Proper maintenance can extend system life.
Common causes include dirty air filters, aging equipment, refrigerant issues, duct leaks, or thermostat malfunctions. A system inspection can identify the root cause.
Most residential filters should be changed every 1–3 months, depending on usage, filter type, pets, and indoor air quality needs.
System size depends on square footage, insulation, windows, ceiling height, and local climate. Proper sizing requires a load calculation—oversized systems waste energy, while undersized systems struggle to maintain comfort.
Common warning signs include: Inconsistent temperatures, Unusual noises or odors, Weak airflow, Frequent cycling, Rising energy costs
If your system is over 10–15 years old, needs frequent repairs, or has declining efficiency, replacement may be more cost-effective long-term. A professional assessment is recommended.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures air conditioner efficiency. Higher SEER ratings indicate greater energy efficiency and lower operating costs.
Summer: ~78°F when home | Winter: ~68°F when home | Programmable or smart thermostats help optimize comfort and energy savings.
Yes. HVAC systems can be equipped with air filters, UV lights, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, and air purifiers to reduce dust, allergens, and airborne contaminants.
Uneven airflow can result from duct issues, closed vents, improper system sizing, or insulation problems. A duct evaluation can resolve most issues.
Modern heat pumps are designed to operate efficiently in colder temperatures, especially when paired with auxiliary or dual-fuel systems.
Schedule regular maintenance, Replace air filters regularly, Seal ductwork, Upgrade insulation, Use a programmable thermostat
Mechanical HVAC work includes the installation, repair, modification, and maintenance of heating, cooling, ventilation, refrigeration, and gas-fired systems governed by mechanical and fuel gas codes.
Requirements vary by jurisdiction but typically include: HVAC Mechanical Contractor License, Master HVAC License, Master Gas Fitter License (for gas piping and appliances), EPA Section 608 Certification (refrigerants)
Commonly adopted codes include: International Mechanical Code (IMC), International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), ASHRAE Standards (e.g., 15, 55, 62.1, 90.1) | Local amendments may apply.
A mechanical load calculation determines heating and cooling requirements based on building size, occupancy, insulation, orientation, ventilation, and equipment heat loads. It ensures proper system sizing and code compliance.
Improper sizing can lead to: Reduced efficiency, Excessive wear and cycling, Poor humidity control, Inadequate ventilation, Code violations
Commissioning verifies that HVAC systems are installed, calibrated, and operating according to design intent, manufacturer specifications, and code requirements.
Constant Volume (CV): Delivers a fixed airflow with varying temperature, Variable Air Volume (VAV): Adjusts airflow based on zone demand, improving energy efficiency
Static pressure measures resistance to airflow within duct systems. Excessive pressure can reduce airflow, increase energy use, and damage equipment.
An economizer uses outdoor air for free cooling when conditions permit, reducing mechanical cooling demand and improving energy efficiency.
Ventilation requirements are calculated using ASHRAE 62.1, considering occupancy type, floor area, and air distribution effectiveness.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF/VRV) systems modulate refrigerant flow to multiple indoor units, providing precise zoning and high efficiency for commercial applications.
Improper installation, Inadequate maintenance, Airflow imbalance, Refrigerant charge issues, Control system faults
Typical maintenance includes: Heat exchanger and burner inspections, Refrigerant pressure verification, Motor and bearing lubrication, Control and sensor calibration, Combustion analysis (gas systems)
Combustion analysis measures oxygen, carbon monoxide, stack temperature, and efficiency in gas-fired equipment to ensure safe and efficient operation.
Most commercial systems require biannual inspections, with additional checks based on equipment type, usage, and regulatory requirements.
Duct leakage testing measures air loss in duct systems to verify efficiency and compliance with energy codes.
Lockout/tagout procedures, Gas leak detection, Refrigerant handling protocols, Combustion air and venting verification, CO monitoring and exhaust testing
Mechanical permits are typically required for: New HVAC installations, Equipment replacement, Ductwork modifications, Gas piping installations
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