FAQ

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. The term encompasses technologies and equipment such as furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioners, humidifiers, and whole-home ventilators used to control the heating and cooling environment throughout the building. The HVAC system is responsible for filtering the air and providing humidity control indoors. As a trusted local HVAC contractor, we know exactly how to help you keep your home or office comfortable all year round.

When properly installed and well-maintained, a HVAC system maximizes your comfort by keeping you warm and cozy during the winter months and cool during the extreme summer heat. It’s true that a HVAC system will cost you higher than a gas furnace, but the long-term benefits are well worth it. Modern HVAC equipment saves you money on energy bills and maintains a consistent temperature in every room of your commercial or residential property.

While it is best to leave HVAC inspection to a qualified technician, there are some ways to evaluate your heating system’s efficiency on your own. Here are some red flags that suggest your heating isn’t working properly: 

• If you’ve noticed your heating bills are abnormally high, this means that your heating system is not operating as efficiently as it used to. 
• If you can hear bizarre noises or feel burning odors when your heating system is running, this is a warning sign that it is nearing the end of its service life.
• Are some rooms colder than others? Have you started to turn up the thermostat more often than before? If the answer is yes, your heater may not be running efficiently. 

These and other symptoms indicate that you need to call a HVAC specialist to schedule a heating system check.

Ideally, your AC should run for roughly 15 to 20 minutes at a time on a 110° day. A properly operating system runs about 2-3 cycles per hour. The run time typically varies based on the design of the system, its cooling capacity, and the temperature outside. 

It depends on your personal situation. If your HVAC is old or breaks down with increasing frequency, it may be wiser to invest in a whole new high-efficiency system. This way, you’ll reduce your energy costs and improve air quality in every room of your house or office. 

If your system is in reliable working condition, it makes sense to simply repair the parts that need fixing. Remember the 50% rule - if the cost of the repair is less than half of the cost of new equipment, then replacement is not necessary.

Generally, if you already have ductwork installed on your property, it is best to stay with your central system. If there is no ductwork in the house, you may want to consider a ductless or mini-split AC system. Mini-splits typically cost less to install, offer more control over which parts of the house you want to heat or cool, and they are more energy-efficient and eco-friendly. However, unlike traditional air conditioners, ductless units are visible on the interior and they do not improve air quality. 

If you have any additional questions, talk to the heating and cooling professionals at Gale Force Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. We can help you choose the right HVAC system for your house or office, set it up for you, and offer tips on getting the most out of it.