Commercial Air Conditioning & Heating FAQ

Learning how your heating and cooling units work and some of the prevalent challenges and signs is one way to guarantee proper care, use, and preventative maintenance. Florida Heat & Air answers some of the popular questions regarding air conditioning repair installation and maintenance and indoor air quality below:

What is a cold patch, and why do I have them?

Cold patches occur when there’s uneven temperature distribution in the building. A cold patch develops when your unit is inefficient and doesn’t effectively serve all rooms, hallways and offices. This may happen due to cracks in window sealing, poor insulation, dirty air filters, and other causes of poor circulation.

My furnace won't ignite. What do I do?

A gas furnace that initiates the start cycle but fails to fire up is a sign of a faulty, damaged, or dirty ignitor or sensor. It’s a common problem and usually requires inspection and repair by a licensed HVAC contractor. Popular fixes include cleaning and replacing the ignitor, but you should involve a professional, especially during emergencies.

Why is my air conditioner making noise?

Heating and cooling units feature moving parts and airflow, so you’ll get a little noise when the equipment is working. Some factors like performance (peak and low) and age also impact noise levels. If you hear strange clicking and grinding noises, call an expert to examine the cause.

What is a trip charge?

Air conditioning repair installation and maintenance contractors charge may bill a trip charge. It’s the fee for expenses associated with the time and travel involved in diagnosing, inspecting, and providing recommendations for your HVAC system. You may bypass this charge if you hire the contractor for service.

Is a whole-house commercial humidifier worth the money?

A humidifier can improve indoor air quality by moistening the soft palate, throat, and nasal passage. Whole-house humidifiers can also reduce allergies and congestion and resolve dry air issues like chapped lips and dry skin. They are worth the money during dry seasons.

How do I make my AC energy efficient?

The recommended approach is to upgrade to a proper-size HVAC unit with a good to excellent energy-efficiency rating. You can also perform routine maintenance and invest in a programmable thermostat to ensure your units are running only when necessary. Other options include maintaining insulation to prevent leaks.

Can I use a gas furnace without electricity?

Yes. One of the benefits of using a gas furnace is it can work without electricity. You can use them to keep your rooms and offices warm during bad weather that takes down electricity in your area. You can also use it when late on bills or when looking to save more on utility bills.

Do I have a warranty on my HVAC system?

If your HVAC system is below five years old, the chances are high that you still have a warranty. You can check the production date located on a label found on the exterior of your unit. Note that warranties vary by manufacturer and installation contractors. Florida Heat & Air can inspect your unit to determine if it’s still covered by warranty.

What do I do for water pooling around my unit?

Water leaks can stem from various issues, including clogged or cracked HVAC drain lines. Pools of water around the unit may also indicate issues with the collector box, evaporator or the heat exchanger. If you notice water leaks and pools, call a professional HVAC contractor promptly to investigate and fix the issue before the unit suffers further damage.

What air filter should I buy for my HVAC unit?

The general recommendation is to choose HEPA-certified air filters as they provide the best protection from known pollutants. You can check the numbers provided on your current air filter, but some don’t offer this option. Working with a reputable HVAC and indoor air quality company like Florida Heat & Air is the best way to go about air filter replacement.

How often do I need an HVAC service?

You should schedule at least two HVAC maintenance services per year as a rule of thumb; one for the heating unit and another for the ac. If you have a new unit, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. You can also schedule pre/post season service or if you suspect something.

Can I schedule a service during weekends?

Yes. At Florida Heat & Air, we offer round-the-clock heating and cooling services to ensure your comfort. So whether your issues arise at three in the morning or Sunday morning, our contractors are readily available for consultations, inspections, repairs, and replacements. Simply call (239) 694-7900 to speak to one of our contractors.

My ac keeps freezing up. What could be the reason?

Air conditioners feature moving parts that can break down or get stuck or clogged. For example, fans may stop moving, filters can become clogged, and refrigerants can leak, causing pressure drops. A freezing ac can stem from various causes, so scheduling an expert inspection is important.

When is the right time to replace my heater or ac?

You can replace your HVAC unit if you need an upgrade to a more energy-efficient model. Systems 15 years or older also need an upgrade as they’re likely inefficient for current demands. A replacement is due if your unit requires constant repairs and doesn’t provide the required comfort.

How do I eliminate indoor odors?

Indoor odors can make your workplace uncomfortable, and spraying an air freshener is the least effective solution as it masks the smell instead of eliminating it. The recommended way to eliminate odors is to invest in quality indoor air quality devices and equipment to remove contaminants.

How do I prepare for an HVAC service?

Each HVAC service is unique, but you shouldn’t worry about intense preparations. Simply hire a reputable HVAC company and schedule inspections. Your contractor will inform you about necessary preparations, which may involve moving business fixtures and furniture around to create clearance space for the HVAC team.

Contact us if you have any other questions about heating and cooling systems and issues. Florida Heat & Air is a leading air conditioning repair installation and maintenance contractor in Florida. We’re dedicated to helping businesses maintain high-performing systems throughout the year. Find out more about our heating, cooling, and indoor air quality services and how we can help.