Frequently Asked Questions

Sometimes as a homeowner, you need that HVAC question answered right away! Luckily, we're here to help! Check out our frequently asked questions below to get all your burning questions answered.

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What are the benefits of using a heat pump for heating?

Heat pumps are excellent for three specific reasons:

• They’re energy efficient, using minimal amounts of electricity to keep your home comfortable. This is because they move heat instead of creating it.
• Tey’re versatile, bringing you air conditioning and heating from a single system. This is great for areas like ours where we really feel each season.
• They allow you to zone individual rooms for maximum comfort and efficiency

How long does a furnace last in New York?

A furnace can last 10–15 years in a place like New York. While some components might last longer, many of the moving parts like the blower fan can lose integrity and get worn down.

Once you get over the 10-year mark, your furnace may start losing efficiency. That, combined with the potential for expensive repairs, may mean it is more cost effective to upgrade to a new higher efficiency unit.

How long does an AC system last in New York?

Air conditioners will also last 10–15 years in New York. Some high-efficiency models might last longer, but that comes with yearly maintenance and quickly addressed repairs.

Once you get over the 10-year mark, your air conditioning unit will start to lose efficiency. That, combined with the potential for expensive repairs, may mean it is more cost effective to upgrade to a new higher efficiency unit.

What are the benefits of using a ductless system?

Many homes in New York just don’t have the space for air ducts. And, if you heat your home with a boiler and radiators, air conditioning wasn’t an option in the past. A ductless system is a perfect solution, using a heat pump to both heat and cool your home. These highly efficient systems can use one outdoor unit attached to multiple indoor units to keep you comfortable all year long. In addition, since you have multiple indoor units throughout the home, you can control the temperature in each zone as needed.

What type of water heater is best for me?

There are several different types of water heaters you can choose depending on your needs and specific application.

The most important thing to remember when choosing a water heater is that it must be sized and installed correctly.

What is the difference between a tank water heater, a tankless water heater, and a hybrid heat pump water heater?

There are many types of water heaters, and each has its own advantages:

A tank water heater is the most affordable and common system available. These are the large cylindrical water heaters you’re used to seeing. They have a lifespan of about 10 years.

A tankless water heater or on-demand water heater gives you instant access to hot water that won’t run out, but they’re more expensive to install. They don’t heat a large tank of water, which reduces waste and improves efficiency.

A hybrid heat pump water heater uses the ambient heat in your home to keep water hot, which is efficient and reduces waste. But heat pump water heaters are more expensive.

What are the benefits of a tankless water heater?

Tankless water heaters use a superheating gas burner or electric coil to heat the water when hot water is called for. This reduces the need for a hot water tank as the water is immediately heated when you need it.

A tankless water heater will save you money on utility bills and also save you space by eliminating the need for a hot water tank.

How often should I be changing my air filter?

For best results, we’d recommend changing an air filter every 1–3 months. However, certain factors such as pet dander, dust, and cooking smoke can require more frequent filter changes.

What are the benefits of a combination boiler that does both heating and hot water?

A combination boiler is a great choice for homes that have hydronic heat and want a constant flow of hot water. A "Combi" boiler makes hot water on demand and will continuously provide hot water. Most combi boilers are 95% efficient so it is a highly energy and cost-effective way to provide heat and hot water to your home.

What are the benefits of using a standby generator?

Home standby generators have two major benefits:

• These systems automatically turn on when the power goes out, allowing either select circuits (heat, lights, sump pumps) or the entire house to continue working as needed—providing uninterrupted power for your home.
• These generators run on natural gas, which is more efficient than gasoline-powered generators.This gives you more energy at a lower cost.