• Do the batteries need to be replaced in the thermostat?

• Is the thermostat in the correct mode (Cooling\Heating)?

• Is the filter dirty?

• Is there power to the unit?

• If there is a condensate pump, is it plugged in?

• System has a large refrigerant leak

  • Many small leaks can be repaired and topped of with refrigerant, a large leak is an indication that your system is old and needs to be replaced.

• Multiple repairs in under a year

  • Many times we feel like THIS repair to the system is the LAST ONE. Multiple repairs in a relatively short amount of time can be an indication that it is time to change your system.

• High energy bills

  • Higher energy bill year over year can be an indication that your system is working hard and not keeping up.

• Using outdated refrigerant - R22

  • EPA phase out of R22 makes this generation of system costly to repair and often replacement is the best option.

• System is struggling to keep up

• The system may struggle to maintain the thermostat’s setpoint as well as the house feeling more humid than normal.

• Does your system use R-22 refrigerant?

  • EPA has banned production of this refrigerant and only reclaimed refrigerant can be used to service older equipment. The price of R-22 continues to rise and often makes replacement of an R-22 system more cost effective.

• Is your AC over 10 years old?

  • Typical life span on an air conditioning system is about 10 years, although systems can go 20+ years in some cases. If your system is over 10 years and tends to break down annually, it is likely time to look at replacement.

• The repair “Rule of Thumb”

  • The industry Rule of Thumb states that if the repair for your system multiplied by the system’s age is greater than $5,000, it is time to replace. Each customer’s situation is different and should be handled on a case by case basis. Example: A $500 repair on a 7 year old system. 500x7=$3,500 therefore the system should be repaired.

The typical lifespan of a furnace is 15-20 years. In fact, many major manufacturers guarantee their furnace’s heat exchangers for 20 years! Typically, your furnace should be replaced every other time your air conditioning is replaced.

Some signs that your furnace needs to be replaced include:

• Rust buildup inside furnace cabinet

• Furnace is no longer able to keep up with heating demand

• Furnace is 20+ years old

There are several simple items that may help us get a better idea of what is going on over the phone or even allow you to solve your own issue. Don’t feel comfortable doing some DIY with your air conditioner? No problem! We’re happy to take a look for you!

• Is your filter clean?

• Is there air coming out of your vents/registers?

• How does the air feel coming out of the vents? Is the air cool, warm, or room temperature?

For air conditioning:

• Is the system freezing at the indoor unit? The outdoor unit?

• Is the fan turning at the outdoor unit?

• If you touch the big pipe, is it cool to the touch?

For furnaces(heating):

• Is the fan motor on the furnace running?

• Does the furnace attempt to light?

• What does it do right after it lights?