How often should I change my HVAC air filter?
Most homes need a filter change every 1–3 months. If you have pets, allergies, or heavy system run-time, check monthly and replace when it looks loaded.
What MERV rating filter should I use?
Use the highest MERV your system can handle without restricting airflow—commonly MERV 8–11. If the filter causes whistling or weak airflow, step down and ask us to confirm the right fit.
Why is my furnace blowing cold air?
Check the thermostat is set to HEAT and the fan is on AUTO. If it still blows cold, it could be ignition, gas supply, limit switch, or airflow issues—book a diagnostic.
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
Start with a clean filter and make sure supply vents are open. If it still won’t cool, common causes are dirty coils, low refrigerant from a leak, or a failing capacitor.
Why is my AC freezing up?
Frozen coils usually mean low airflow (dirty filter, blocked return) or low refrigerant. Turn the system OFF to thaw and schedule service to prevent compressor damage.
What temperature should I set my thermostat to in summer?
A common comfort/efficiency target is 74–78°F when home. Higher setpoints reduce run-time; use a schedule to raise temps when away.
What temperature should I set my thermostat to in winter?
Many homes do well at 68–72°F when home and lower when asleep/away. Small setbacks are usually better for comfort than big swings.
Should I repair or replace my furnace?
We look at age, safety, parts availability, and repair cost versus replacement value. If repairs are frequent or a major component fails on an older unit, replacement can be smarter.
Should I repair or replace my air conditioner?
If the unit is older and needs an expensive repair (compressor/coil) or has ongoing refrigerant leaks, replacement may be the better long-term value.
Why does my furnace smell when it first turns on?
A brief dusty smell at first start is normal. Persistent burning odors, electrical smells, or any gas smell should be checked immediately.
What causes short cycling?
Short cycling is when the system starts and stops quickly. Causes include oversized equipment, dirty filters, airflow restrictions, thermostat placement, or faulty sensors.
Why is airflow weak from my vents?
Check filter, closed vents, and blocked returns. Weak airflow can also be duct leakage, blower issues, or dirty indoor coils.
Why are some rooms hotter or colder than others?
It’s usually duct balance, insulation, sun exposure, or closed/blocked returns. Zoning, balancing, and airflow adjustments can fix it.
How often should I service my HVAC system?
Most homes benefit from maintenance twice a year: spring for AC, fall for heating. It reduces breakdowns and improves efficiency.
Do you service boilers?
Yes. We diagnose, repair, and maintain boilers and related hydronic components to keep heat safe and consistent.
Do you service heat pumps?
Yes. Heat pumps need seasonal maintenance and correct refrigerant/airflow to heat and cool efficiently.
What’s the difference between a furnace and a heat pump?
A furnace makes heat (often gas). A heat pump moves heat and can both heat and cool; many homes use a heat pump with backup heat.
How do I know if my thermostat is bad?
If the display is blank, readings are inaccurate, or the system won’t respond to settings, it may be the thermostat, wiring, or power to the HVAC controls.
Are smart thermostats worth it?
If you keep a schedule or travel, a smart thermostat can reduce energy use. Proper setup and compatible equipment matter for best results.
Why is my HVAC system noisy?
Rattling can be loose panels; buzzing can be electrical; banging can be duct expansion or blower issues. New noises should be checked before damage occurs.
What is a capacitor and why does it fail?
Capacitors help start and run motors. Heat and age can weaken them and cause no-cool/no-heat. Replacement is common and fast.
What is a contactor?
It’s an electrical switch that turns the outdoor unit on/off. Pitting or failure can stop cooling or cause intermittent operation.
Why does my AC keep tripping the breaker?
It can be a failing capacitor, compressor issue, wiring problem, or an overloaded circuit. Repeated trips need diagnosis for safety.
How can I lower my utility bill?
Use clean filters, seal air leaks, keep vents open, use a programmable schedule, and get seasonal maintenance. Upgrading to high-efficiency equipment also helps.
Does closing vents in unused rooms save money?
Usually no—closing too many vents can raise static pressure and reduce system efficiency. Better options are balancing or zoning.
Why is my indoor air dry in winter?
Cold outdoor air holds less moisture and furnaces can dry indoor air. Whole-home humidifiers and sealing drafts help.
What’s the best humidity level for my home?
Many homes target ~30–45% in winter (to reduce condensation) and ~40–55% in summer (comfort). We can advise based on your home and equipment.
Do you install humidifiers?
Yes. We can add whole-home humidification to improve comfort and reduce dryness in winter.
Do you install air purifiers or UV lights?
Yes. We can recommend options based on allergies, odors, and your HVAC setup.
Why does my home smell musty when the AC runs?
It can be moisture on coils or in ductwork, a dirty drain pan, or high humidity. Cleaning and drainage checks usually help.
What causes water around my furnace or air handler?
Common causes are a clogged condensate drain, cracked drain pan, or frozen coil thawing. Turn the system off and schedule service if leaking persists.
Should I cover my outdoor AC unit in winter?
In most cases, you can leave it uncovered. If you use a cover, only cover the top to keep debris out while allowing airflow.
How long should an HVAC system last?
Many systems last 10–20 years depending on maintenance, climate, and usage. Regular service can extend lifespan.
What size AC do I need?
Correct sizing requires a load calculation (Manual J). Bigger isn’t better—oversizing can cause short cycling and poor humidity control.
Why does my AC run all day on hot days?
When it’s extremely hot, long run-times can be normal. If it can’t maintain temperature, it may be undersized, dirty, low refrigerant, or have airflow issues.
Can I run my AC with the fan set to ON?
You can, but it may increase humidity and energy use. AUTO is usually best unless you’re trying to even out temperatures temporarily.
Why is my furnace turning off before reaching temperature?
It can be overheating from restricted airflow, a dirty filter, or a failing limit switch. Don’t ignore it—overheating can damage the unit.
What is a tune-up and what does it include?
A tune-up typically includes safety checks, cleaning, airflow verification, electrical testing, and performance measurements to prevent breakdowns.
Do you offer emergency HVAC service?
Yes. If you have no heat/no AC or a safety concern, call and we’ll prioritize the fastest available option.
Is it safe to run my furnace if I smell gas?
No. Leave the area, avoid switches/flames, and contact your gas provider and emergency services if needed, then call us to inspect the furnace.
Why is my CO detector going off?
Treat it as an emergency. Get everyone outside, call emergency services, and do not re-enter until cleared. Then schedule an HVAC safety inspection.
Do you check carbon monoxide with furnace service?
Yes. Safety checks are part of heating diagnostics and maintenance.
What does SEER2 mean?
SEER2 is an efficiency rating for air conditioners/heat pumps. Higher SEER2 generally means lower cooling energy use, depending on usage and installation quality.
What does AFUE mean?
AFUE is furnace efficiency—how much fuel becomes usable heat. Higher AFUE means less wasted energy.
What is a dual-fuel system?
Dual-fuel pairs a heat pump with a gas furnace backup. The system uses the most efficient heat source based on outdoor temperature and settings.
What is zoning?
Zoning uses dampers and controls to manage temperatures in different areas. It helps comfort in multi-story homes and rooms with different sun exposure.
Is duct cleaning worth it?
If there’s heavy dust, construction debris, or confirmed contamination, duct cleaning can help. Otherwise, filtration and sealing often provide better results.
Do leaky ducts matter?
Yes. Leaks waste energy and reduce comfort. Duct sealing and balancing can significantly improve performance.
Why is my thermostat reading different than another thermometer?
Placement matters. Sunlight, exterior walls, or supply vents can skew readings. We can test and recommend better placement or calibration.
Why is my furnace making a popping sound?
Often it’s duct expansion as metal warms, but loud bangs can indicate delayed ignition or duct issues—schedule service if it’s new or worsening.
Can I add AC to a home with no ductwork?
Yes. Options include ductless mini-splits or installing ducts. We can recommend based on layout and budget.
What’s the difference between ductless and central HVAC?
Central uses ductwork to distribute air; ductless uses indoor heads per zone. Ductless offers zone control and can be great for additions or rooms with comfort issues.
Why is my AC blowing warm air sometimes?
It could be a thermostat setting, dirty coil, low refrigerant, or a failing component. If it’s inconsistent, schedule a diagnostic.
What maintenance can I do myself?
Replace filters, keep returns/vents clear, keep the outdoor unit free of debris, and check for unusual noises or leaks. Leave electrical/refrigerant work to pros.
How quickly can you get me on the schedule?
Availability changes daily, but online booking is the fastest way to see openings. If it’s urgent, call for priority options.
Do you provide upfront pricing?
Yes. After diagnosis, we explain options and pricing so you can choose what fits your home and budget.
Why is my AC not keeping up at night?
Cooler nights can change humidity and airflow patterns. Causes can include undersized equipment, duct issues, or attic heat load—an evaluation can pinpoint it.
What is a heat exchanger and why is it important?
The heat exchanger transfers heat to your home’s air. Cracks can be a safety issue, so we inspect it during heating service.
Why does my AC drain line clog?
Dust, algae, and sludge can build up in the condensate line. Regular maintenance and drain treatments help prevent backups and water damage.
Can poor insulation make my HVAC feel weak?
Yes. If your home leaks air or lacks insulation, the system works harder and rooms feel inconsistent. Air sealing and insulation upgrades can make a big difference.
What should I do if my toilet is overflowing?
Turn off the toilet’s shutoff valve (behind the toilet) and stop using other plumbing until the clog is cleared. If it won’t stop, shut off the main water and call for service.
Why is my faucet dripping?
A worn washer, cartridge, or O-ring is common. Repairing it stops water waste and prevents valve-seat damage.
Why is my water pressure low?
Common causes are clogged aerators, a failing pressure regulator, hidden leaks, or mineral buildup in pipes. We can test pressure and isolate the cause.
Why does my shower pressure suddenly drop?
Check if other fixtures are running. If not, the showerhead or cartridge may be clogged with mineral buildup or the PRV may be failing.
Why do my drains smell?
Odors usually come from buildup, a dry trap, or a venting issue. Cleaning the drain and confirming venting/trap function typically fixes it.
What can I pour down the drain to unclog it?
Avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners—they can damage pipes. Start with a plunger or a drain snake. For recurring clogs, professional drain cleaning is safest.
How do I prevent clogs in kitchen sinks?
Avoid grease, coffee grounds, and fibrous foods. Use a strainer and run hot water after use. If you have recurring backups, the line may need cleaning.
Why does my garbage disposal hum but not run?
It may be jammed. Turn power off, use the reset button and an Allen key (if equipped) to free it. If it keeps happening, the unit may be failing.
What’s causing a running toilet?
Often it’s a flapper, fill valve, or float adjustment. It wastes water fast—repair is usually simple and inexpensive.
How do I find my main water shutoff?
It’s commonly near the water meter, in a basement/crawlspace, or near where the line enters the home. If you can’t locate it, call and we’ll help you find it.
Why is my water heater not making hot water?
For gas units it can be pilot/ignition or gas supply; for electric it can be elements or thermostats. A diagnostic will confirm the failed part.
How long do water heaters last?
Many tank water heaters last 8–12 years; tankless can last longer with proper maintenance. Water quality and flushing frequency matter.
Should I flush my water heater?
Yes, especially with hard water. Annual flushing reduces sediment, improves efficiency, and can extend tank life.
What’s the difference between tank and tankless water heaters?
Tank units store hot water; tankless heats on demand. Tankless can save space and provide continuous hot water but needs correct sizing and maintenance.
Why is my water heater leaking?
Leaks can be from fittings/valves or a failing tank. If water is coming from the tank body, replacement is usually required—turn off water and call.
Why is my water rusty or brown?
It can be sediment in the water heater, corrosion in pipes, or a municipal issue. We can help determine if it’s inside the home or upstream.
Why does my hot water smell like rotten eggs?
This is often a reaction between the anode rod and certain water chemistry. Servicing the heater and changing the anode can resolve it.
What causes a sewer smell in the house?
Dry traps, a loose toilet seal, venting problems, or a sewer line issue can cause odor. An inspection can pinpoint the source.
Why is my sink gurgling?
Gurgling can indicate venting problems or a developing clog. If multiple fixtures gurgle, the main line may be restricted.
Why are my pipes banging when water turns off?
That’s water hammer. It can be fixed with secure pipe supports or water hammer arrestors, and sometimes a pressure adjustment.
What is a pressure regulating valve (PRV)?
A PRV controls incoming water pressure. If pressure is too high/low or fluctuating, the PRV may need adjustment or replacement.
How do I know if I have a hidden leak?
Signs include higher bills, damp spots, mold, low pressure, or running water sounds. We can do leak detection to locate it.
Should I use leak-stop products inside pipes?
Temporary stop-leak products can complicate professional repairs. It’s better to locate and fix the leak properly.
What should I do if a pipe bursts?
Shut off the main water immediately, open faucets to relieve pressure, and call for emergency service. If safe, turn off power in affected areas.
How can I prevent frozen pipes?
Insulate exposed pipes, seal drafts, keep heat on, and let faucets drip during extreme cold. Disconnect hoses and winterize spigots.
Do I need to disconnect outdoor hoses in winter?
Yes. Even frost-free spigots can freeze if a hose remains attached and traps water.
Why is my sump pump running nonstop?
It could be a stuck float, a check valve issue, or high groundwater. Continuous running can burn out the pump—schedule service.
Why is my sump pump not working?
It may be a tripped breaker, failed switch, clogged intake, or a burned-out motor. Testing before storms is key.
What causes low hot water pressure only?
It can be a partially closed valve on the heater, sediment buildup, or pipe corrosion. A plumber can isolate the restriction.
Why is my dishwasher backing up into the sink?
It’s often a clog in the shared drain line or disposal connection. Cleaning the line usually resolves it.
Why does my toilet rock or feel loose?
A loose flange or failing wax ring can cause movement and leaks. It should be repaired quickly to prevent floor damage.
What is a sewer line cleanout and where is it?
A cleanout is an access point to the sewer line, often outside near the foundation. It allows snaking/camera inspections without removing fixtures.
Do you do sewer camera inspections?
Yes. A camera inspection identifies root intrusion, breaks, bellies, or heavy buildup so you can choose the right repair.
What are signs of a main sewer line problem?
Multiple drains backing up, gurgling toilets, sewage odors, or water around floor drains are common signs.
Can tree roots clog my sewer line?
Yes. Roots can enter through joints and cause recurring clogs. Cleaning plus repair/lining may be needed to stop repeat issues.
What is hydro jetting?
Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to clear grease and heavy buildup. It’s a powerful option when snaking isn’t enough.
Why is my shower drain slow?
Hair and soap scum are common. A proper cleanout removes the blockage and restores flow.
Why does my bathtub drain clog repeatedly?
Recurring clogs often mean buildup deeper in the line or a partial obstruction. A professional cleaning can clear the full line.
Can I use a plunger on a sink?
Yes—use a flat-bottom sink plunger and block the overflow. If it doesn’t clear quickly, the clog may be deeper.
What causes water stains on ceilings?
Often it’s a slow leak from a bathroom, supply line, or drain above. Fixing early prevents mold and structural damage.
Why is my water bill suddenly higher?
Common causes are running toilets, hidden leaks, irrigation leaks, or water heater relief valve discharge. We can help find the source.
What is the temperature setting recommended for water heaters?
Many homes set tanks around 120°F for safety and efficiency. Special needs may require adjustments—ask us before changing settings.
Can hard water damage plumbing?
Yes. Minerals can clog aerators, reduce water heater efficiency, and shorten fixture life. Water treatment can help.
Do you install whole-home water filtration or softeners?
Yes. We can recommend filtration/softening based on your water quality goals and household usage.
Why is my washing machine drain overflowing?
It usually indicates a partial clog in the standpipe or main line. Cleaning the line restores proper drainage.
Is it normal for my water heater T&P valve to drip?
Occasional discharge can happen with high pressure or temperature, but frequent dripping needs inspection for safety.
What’s the difference between a clog and a sewer backup?
A clog affects one fixture/branch line. A sewer backup often affects multiple fixtures and can involve sewage—treat it as urgent.
Do you offer same-day plumbing service?
Often yes, depending on demand. The fastest path is to book online or call for the next available opening.
Why is my faucet water sputtering?
Air in the lines, recent plumbing work, or a partially blocked aerator can cause sputtering. If it persists, we’ll check for leaks or supply issues.
Can I turn off water to just one fixture?
Yes. Most sinks/toilets have individual shutoff valves. If a valve is stuck or leaking, we can replace it so you can isolate issues quickly.
Why do my breakers keep tripping?
Common causes are overloaded circuits, faulty appliances, or wiring issues. Frequent trips should be inspected to prevent overheating.
How do I reset a tripped breaker?
Flip it fully OFF, then back ON. If it trips again immediately, leave it OFF and call—there may be a short or overload.
What’s the difference between a fuse and a circuit breaker?
Both protect circuits from overcurrent. Breakers reset; fuses must be replaced when they blow.
What is a GFCI outlet?
A GFCI protects against shock in wet areas. If it trips, press RESET. If it won’t reset, the outlet or circuit may need service.
What is an AFCI breaker?
AFCI protection helps prevent fires from arcing faults. Nuisance trips can happen, but repeated trips need diagnosis.
Why do my lights flicker?
Loose bulbs can flicker, but persistent flicker can mean loose connections, neutral issues, or panel problems—schedule an inspection.
Why is an outlet warm to the touch?
Warmth can indicate a loose connection or overload. Turn off the circuit if safe and call for immediate service.
Why is there a burning smell near an outlet or panel?
Treat it as urgent: turn off the circuit and call. Burning smells can indicate overheating wiring or components.
Can you upgrade my electrical panel?
Yes. Panel upgrades improve safety and capacity for modern appliances, EV chargers, and HVAC equipment.
Do I need a panel upgrade for a new AC or heat pump?
Sometimes. Larger equipment and modern code requirements may need more capacity or dedicated breakers—we can evaluate.
What is a dedicated circuit?
A dedicated circuit serves one high-load appliance to prevent overloads and nuisance trips.
Can you add outlets where I need them?
Yes. We can add outlets, relocate them, and ensure proper grounding and code compliance.
Why do some outlets not work but the breaker isn’t tripped?
A tripped GFCI upstream is common. Check GFCI outlets in kitchens, baths, garage, and outdoors and press RESET.
What’s the safest way to test an outlet?
Use a plug-in outlet tester for basic checks. For deeper issues (neutral/ground faults), call an electrician.
Is it safe to use a space heater on an extension cord?
Usually not. Space heaters should plug directly into a wall outlet on a properly rated circuit to avoid overheating.
Why does my dimmer switch buzz?
Some buzz can be normal with certain LED loads. We can install a compatible dimmer and bulbs to eliminate noise.
Can LED bulbs cause flickering?
Yes, especially with incompatible dimmers or poor-quality bulbs. Matching dimmer/LED specs usually fixes it.
What causes a short circuit?
A hot conductor contacting neutral/ground, damaged insulation, or faulty devices can cause a short, leading to breaker trips.
What’s a surge protector and do I need one?
Surge protectors reduce damage from voltage spikes. Whole-home surge protection adds another layer beyond plug-in strips.
Do you install EV chargers?
Yes. EV chargers often require a dedicated circuit and sometimes a panel capacity check.
Why is my breaker box making a buzzing sound?
Buzzing can indicate a failing breaker or loose connection—this should be inspected promptly.
What should I do if I see sparks?
Turn off power at the breaker if safe and call immediately. Sparks can indicate arcing and fire risk.
Can you install ceiling fans and light fixtures?
Yes. We can safely install fixtures, switches, and ensure proper support and wiring.
Why do my outlets have two buttons (TEST/RESET)?
Those are GFCI outlets. If power is out, press RESET. If it keeps tripping, there may be a fault or moisture issue.
What is grounding and why does it matter?
Grounding provides a safe path for fault current and helps reduce shock risk. Proper grounding is critical for safety.
Is aluminum wiring dangerous?
Aluminum wiring can be safe if properly terminated, but it’s more prone to connection issues. We can inspect and recommend remediation if needed.
Do you do electrical safety inspections?
Yes. We check the panel, breakers, grounding, visible wiring, and common problem points to reduce fire and shock risk.
Why do my outlets stop working after a storm?
Surges can trip breakers/GFCIs or damage devices. Reset protection first; if problems persist, schedule an inspection.
How many outlets can be on one circuit?
It depends on load and code considerations. We can map circuits and add capacity where needed.
Is backstabbing outlets a problem?
Push-in (backstab) connections can loosen over time. Upgrading to secure screw-terminal connections improves reliability.
Can you install smart switches?
Yes, as long as wiring and neutral requirements are met. We’ll verify compatibility and safe installation.
What’s the difference between 120V and 240V circuits?
120V powers most outlets and lighting. 240V powers high-load appliances like dryers, ranges, and some HVAC equipment.
Why is my breaker tripping when my AC starts?
Start-up draw can trip weak breakers, bad capacitors, or overloaded circuits. Diagnosis determines whether it’s electrical or HVAC-related.
Can you add a subpanel?
Yes. Subpanels can add capacity and reduce long wire runs for additions, garages, or shops.
Do you replace outdated panels?
Yes. We can replace unsafe or obsolete panels and bring the system up to modern safety standards.
What is a “loose neutral” and why is it serious?
A loose neutral can cause flickering, voltage swings, and equipment damage. It’s a safety issue that needs immediate inspection.
Can I use a generator with my home wiring?
Yes, but it needs a proper transfer switch or interlock to prevent backfeeding. We can install a safe setup.
Do you install smoke/CO detectors?
Yes. Proper placement and hardwired options can improve home safety.
Why does my outlet make crackling sounds?
Crackling can indicate arcing from a loose or failing connection. Turn off the circuit and call for service.
What should I do if a breaker feels hot?
A hot breaker can signal overload or a failing breaker/connection. Leave it off if possible and schedule an inspection promptly.
