FAQs

We Answer Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is SEER?

    There are special names for the efficiency ratings of various types of equipment. Air conditioning equipment is rated by the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating or SEER. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit.

  • What does HSPF stand for?

    There are special names for the efficiency ratings of varying types of equipment. Heat pump equipment in the heating mode is rated by the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor or HSPF. The higher the HSPF rating, the more efficient the unit.

  • What does AUFE stand for?

    There are special names for the efficiency ratings of various types of equipment. Gas furnaces are rated according to their Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, or AFUE. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the unit.

  • Should a thermostat’s fan setting be set to ‘auto’ or ‘on’?

    Preferably auto. That way, the fan operates only when the temperature requires it. This is the most used and the most efficient setting. However, there are advantages to using the “on” setting. Air is constantly filtered through the unit’s air filter, and the constantly circulating air results in an even temperature throughout the house.

  • If an outdoor unit needs replacing, should the indoor unit be replaced too?

    RHEEM air conditioning and heating units are designed to operate as a complete, matched system. The efficiency rating is based on the entire system. Replacing the entire system ensures the system will be reliable and efficient.

  • How often do air filters need to be changed?

    It varies depending on the type of filter you have. If you have pleated filters, we recommend changing them every 90 days. Media filters can last longer and should be replaced twice a year.

  • How long does HVAC equipment last?

    HVAC systems generally last 10 to 15 years. However, your system becomes less efficient and performs worse as it gets older. Therefore, after about 10 years, you may want to start looking for a replacement.  Even if you are not having any major problems, modern HVAC systems will save you money on your energy bills because they are more efficient. Plus, they generally come with 10-year warranties, so you won’t need to worry about replacing them for quite a while.

  • How often should I have my air conditioning unit serviced?

    We recommend having your air conditioner serviced once a year. This will save you on energy and repair costs, keep your system running smoothly and efficiently, and make it last longer. The longer you put off AC maintenance, the worse your unit will perform, and the more likely it is that it will break down. Trying to save money by delaying maintenance may backfire by forcing you to pay more energy bills and potentially, on repairs if a serious issue arises with your system.

  • What should I set my thermostat to?

    In terms of energy efficiency, the general rule is, that in the summer: the higher, the better, and in winter, the lower, the better. However, the point of air conditioners and furnaces is to keep your home comfortable. Therefore, you need to find the right balance for you between comfort and energy efficiency. For energy efficiency and lower bills, we recommend keeping your thermostat around 78 degrees in the summer and 68 degrees in the winter.

  • How long does it take to install an AC unit?

    On average, a direct replacement and installation of an air conditioning unit takes around 4-6 hours.  Additional time may be required depending on factors such as if the installation team is replacing the coil, disconnecting, line set, flushing the lines, replacing the AC pad, setting the AC on brackets, along with any other variables that may have been included in the agreement for the AC installation.

Do you have a question that you need answered? Call us today at 706-216-8238.

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