Questions & Answers
Having issues with your furnace or A/C? Here are a few common questions that we receive at PT Heating and Cooling. Read our professional advice below and if you are still having an issue, please call us at 586-486-4133 and we will send a technician to your home right away to diagnose your system and suggest the correct furnace or a/c repair if needed.
Common Furnace & A/C Questions
1. My heat went out- what should I do?
Go through this troubleshooting checklist if your furnace turns on but there is no heat- or if it doesn't turn on at all:
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Check your power. Even a gas furnace needs electricity to run the blower motor, so make sure it's not just a tripped circuit breaker.
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Check the thermostat, making sure it's on "heat" and not "cool". Also make sure the fan is set to "auto" and not "on". If you have newer controls, there may be onscreen information about the problem but if the screen is blank, you my just need new batteries.
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Change the filter. If the filter is dirty, it can block airflow and cause a shutdown.
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Check the outside vent. If your furnace can't vent properly, it will stop running. Remove any leaves or snow covering the exhaust and see if your heat returns.
If you still don't have heat, call us for service. We provide emergency service to protect you and hour home from the cold.
2. My home always feels cold, do I need a bigger furnace?
You might think your home needs a bigger furnace to warm it up, but that's not necessarily the case. A furnace that is too large won't cycle properly and can actually lead to inconsistent heating and high energy bills. You may just need maintenance or repair to get your current system up to speed. Other options to even up your home comfort include zoning and ductless split systems.
3. Can I save money by closing vents in rooms I don't use?
While it seems like it makes sense, closing vents actually puts extra pressure on your duct system, which makes your furnace work harder and less efficiently. You'll save money and reduce the strain on your system by keeping all vents open for optimal airflow.
4. How often should I change my air filter?
Change your standard air filter every one to three months to maintain high furnace efficiency and performance. Media cartridges or high-efficiency filters only need to be replaced once or twice a year. You might need more frequent changes if you smoke, have pets, or there are construction projects in or around your home.
5. Does a clean air filter mean my air is clean?
While your air filter does prevent dust and debris from infiltrating your system, it doesn't actually clean the air that blows through your home. If you really want to improve your indoor air quality, PT Heating and Cooling can install air purifiers that trap dust, germs, and bacteria, removing them from your indoor air.
6. How long should my furnace last?
The average furnace lasts between 15 and 20 years, but it can vary depending on use and other factors. Annual maintenance can add years of service. If your furnace is more than 12 years old and you notice issues like increased energy bills, more frequent repairs, or overall system inefficiency, it's time to call PT Heating and Cooling. Don't wait until your furnace completely breaks down before you take action. Ask us for a professional opinion and we will help you be prepared when it's time for a new furnace installation.
1. Why is my A/C running but not cooling?
If this happens, there's a few things you can check before you call PT Heating and Cooling for a repair. First, check the batteries in your thermostat to make sure they're working. Next, check for a tripped breaker or fuse. Change your air filter if it is clogged or dirty. Finally, make sure your system is set to "cool" and that your thermostat is turned at least 3 degrees below your current room temperature.
2. How can I keep my home cool this summer without expensive energy bills?
No one wants to sacrifice comfort in the summer. Luckily, you won't have to with these efficient air conditioner tips:
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Set your thermostat a few degrees higher then you normally would.
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Run your ceiling fan to help circulate cool air.
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Close your blinds and shades on warm, sunny days to prevent the sun from heating your home.
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Only use major appliances during the day.
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Install a Wi-Fi thermostat to remotely adjust your home temperature to prevent unnecessary usage.
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Schedule annual A/C maintenance or become a Comfort First Member to keep your system running efficiently.
3. Can an air conditioner really cause a summer cold?
An air conditioner cannot directly cause a cold. However, germs can thrive in any environment that's not properly ventilated- so if your home is closed up all summer, this could trap germs inside. A sudden change between indoor and outdoor temperatures could also trigger respiratory problems in some people, too.
4. My air conditioner is frozen, what should I do?
If your air conditioner is so cold that ice or frost forms, you should immediately turn it off to reduce the risk of serious damage. Once the ice or frost melts, try replacing the filter and restarting the unit. If ice forms again, you should call us at PT Heating and Cooling for air conditioner service right away. the problem could be insufficient ductwork, build up inside the system, a broken blower, or a leak in the refrigerant.
5. Do I need to cover my air conditioner in the winter?
Air conditioners are built to withstand the elements, so you don't need to cover your A/C unit in the winter. We see more issues with A/C units that have been turned on while covered and are unable to get air. Covering your air conditioner can also trap moisture inside, which can lead to rust and corrosion.
6. Can I use a window air conditioner if I don't have central air?
Even though summer can be uncomfortable without air conditioning, we don't recommend installing a window air conditioner if you can avoid it for several reasons:
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They are inefficient and loud
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They offer limited service
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They pose a security risk
The perfect alternative to a window air conditioner is a ductless split system. They enable you to customize temperatures room by room. Plus, installation only requires a small, three-inch hole to connect the indoor and outdoor components.