HVAC Frequently Asked Questions in Lancaster, OH

HVAC Frequently Asked Questions

At Lancaster Furnace & Air Conditioning, we answer some of the most commonly asked HVAC related questions. We receive these types of questions from homeowners all the time, so we’ve compiled a guide to help ease your stress. Be sure to check out our blog posts for HVAC tips & tricks. Check out our FAQ below and contact us with any other questions!

FAQ Quick Guide

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About Lancaster Furnace & AC

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General HVAC FAQ

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Heating FAQ

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Cooling FAQ

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Indoor Air Quality FAQ

About Lancaster Furnace & Air Conditioning

Lancaster Furnace & Air Conditioning FAQ

What are your hours of operation?
We make ourselves available from 7 am – 9 pm every day of the week! You can call us at (740) 625-2320 or send us a message  during these hours. If you reach out outside of business hours, we will be in touch the following business day.
What services do you provide?

We specialize in HVAC services in Lancaster, OH, and surrounding areas. This includes Heating, Cooling, and Indoor Air Quality services. Furthermore, we do furnace repair, AC replacement, system installation, preventative maintenance, heat pump repair, and much more.

Do you offer HVAC financing?

Yes, we are proud to offer our customers financing options! 

Learn More →

The HVAC Experts in Lancaster, OH

General HVAC FAQ

How do I determine the size of the unit for my home?

To determine this correctly, you should have a certified HVAC technician come to your home to take accurate measurements, especially if you are looking to replace your old equipment or purchase any new equipment.

Our technicians take a variety of factors into consideration and make accurate and educated recommendations for correctly-sized equipment suitable for your needs. They look at the total square footage of your home, the number and types of windows and doors and rooms, your insulation, and even the number of people living with you to provide an exact calculation.

What does SEER mean?
Some types of equipment have special names for their efficiency ratings of various. As such, AC systems are rated by what is known as a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating, or SEER. Like other ratings, the higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the system. Today, any new AC equipment must at least meet a 13.0 SEER rating. Nevertheless, a lot of manufacturers nowadays have equipment that rates as high as 21.0 SEER.
What does HSPF stand for?
Air conditioners that have a heat pump function are rated by what is called a Heating Seasonal Performance Factor. The more efficient units have higher HSPF ratings; it is a ratio of British Thermal Units (or BTU) heat output to watt-hours of energy consumed during the heating season.

The Heating Experts in Lancaster, OH

Heating FAQ

What is carbon monoxide? What should I do if I smell gas?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and toxic gas. The Environmental Protection Agency warns that at low levels of exposure, CO causes mild effects that are often mistaken for the flu. These symptoms include headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea, and fatigue.

If you’re concerned about a potential leak, evacuate yourself and any other persons/pets from inside the home immediately. Use a phone located outside of the home to call your local gas utility and/or the fire department.

When should I call for furnace repair?

If you’re experiencing any of the following, contact us immediately.

  • The unit is non-functioning
  • The unit is only blowing cold air
  • The ignition light is malfunctioning
  • The furnace flame sensor does not detect flames properly
  • The motor is showing signs of disrepair
  • The thermostat is faulty
What can I do to improve the efficiency of my furnace?

A furnace tune-up will help improve your furnace’s efficiency. Our technician will perform a variety of services to your furnace that will improve its efficiency and performance. Learn more about furnace maintenance here.

The Cooling Experts in Lancaster, OH

Cooling FAQ

Should I cover my outdoor units during the winter?

Covering your outdoor unit during the winter will protect it from falling ice or other issues. Coverings should not be airtight; trash can lid secured down by bungee cords work well. However, if there’s a chance of anyone turning on the air conditioner while it’s covered, don’t do it. Turning on a covered AC could damage your condenser and its internal components. Having said that, outdoor units are designed to withstand the environment year-round and covering them isn’t really necessary.

Can I plant shrubs and/or flowers around my outdoor condensing unit?

Flowers and shrubs are acceptable around your outdoor unit. However, all plant life should be kept a few feet away from the unit to give the system plenty of room for air circulation in and out of the unit.

Without this room for air circulation, the unit might overheat and cause premature problems requiring repairs. Be mindful if you have plants around the unit to remember to trim them and keep everything else out of the way.

What is the difference between a package unit and a split system?
Package units have all the required components, both indoor and outdoor, inside it. A package unit is usually used in commercial properties, apartments, and condominiums. Split systems use an indoor air handler/coil or furnace/coil along with an outdoor condenser unit to provide a fully complete comfort system for the home.

The Indoor Air Quality Experts in Lancaster, OH

Indoor Air Quality FAQ

What symptoms are often linked to poor Indoor Air Quality?

It is common for people to report one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Dryness and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and skin
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Hypersensitivity and allergies
  • Sinus congestion
  • Coughing and sneezing
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
What are the different types of indoor pollutants?

Here are examples of common indoor air contaminants and their main sources:

  • Carbon dioxide (CO2), tobacco smoke, perfume, body odors – from building occupants.
  • Dust, fiberglass, asbestos, gases, including formaldehyde – from building materials.
  • Toxic vapors, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) – from workplace cleaners, solvents, pesticides, disinfectants, glues.
  • Gases, vapors, odors – off-gas emissions from furniture, carpets, and paints.
  • Dust mites – from carpets, fabric, foam chair cushions.
  • Microbial contaminants, fungi, molds, bacteria – from damp areas, stagnant water, and condensate pans.
  • Ozone – from photocopiers, electric motors, electrostatic air cleaners.
How often should I replace my air filters?

Generally speaking, every 90 days. Most experts will recommend every 2-3 months. At the very least, change them once every quarter.

Lancaster Furnace & Air Conditioning

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