HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. These systems regulate indoor temperature, humidity, and air quality to ensure comfort and safety in your home.

Most HVAC systems have a lifespan of 8 to 15 years. Regular maintenance can extend their longevity, while factors like usage patterns and environmental conditions can influence their durability. 

MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rates the effectiveness of air filters in trapping airborne particles. Higher MERV ratings indicate better filtration, which can improve indoor air quality.

It's recommended to have your HVAC system inspected and serviced at least twice a year. Ideally, schedule maintenance for your heating system in the fall and your cooling system in the spring to ensure optimal performance.

The location of your air filter can vary depending on your system's design. Common locations include:

• Inside the furnace or air handler unit

• Behind return air vents

• In a dedicated filter slot or compartment

The correct filter size is usually printed on the edge of the existing filter. If you're unsure, consult your HVAC system's manual or contact your dealer for guidance.

Carrier's warranty typically covers functional parts such as:

• Blower motors

• Compressors

• Coils

• Control boards

• Heat exchangers

Non-functional parts like belts, fuses, and cosmetic components are generally not covered. For detailed information, refer to your warranty certificate or use Carrier's warranty lookup tool. 

Carrier provides a limited parts warranty as the manufacturer. Labor coverage is typically offered by the installing dealer or contractor and may vary based on their policies. 

The serial number is located on the "rating plate" sticker of your unit.

• For outdoor units (air conditioners and heat pumps): It's usually on the back of the unit above the service valve connections.

• For furnaces: Open the front door panel; the sticker is typically inside. 

Standard (non-communicating) thermostats control HVAC systems using basic on/off signals and may have limited features. Communicating thermostats, like Carrier's Infinity® System Control, enable two-way communication with the HVAC system, allowing for advanced diagnostics, energy management, and enhanced comfort control. 

Thermostat alert codes notify you of system statuses or issues. They can indicate:

• Conditions: Informational messages, such as software updates.

• Faults: Issues that may require attention but don't immediately affect system operation.

• Malfunctions: Serious problems that may cause system shutdowns and require immediate service. 

Consider replacing your system if:

• It's over 8-15 years old.

• You're experiencing frequent repairs.

• Energy bills are increasing without changes in usage.

• There are inconsistent temperatures throughout your home.

HVAC installation involves complex procedures, including handling refrigerants and ensuring proper system sizing. It's strongly recommended to have a licensed professional perform the installation to ensure safety, efficiency, and warranty compliance.

The duration varies based on system complexity, but most standard installations are completed within one day. More complex setups or additional ductwork may extend the timeframe.

You can access owner’s manuals, installation guides, and product specifications by visiting Carrier’s Document Search page. Simply enter your model number to find the relevant documents.

For one-inch thick filters, replace monthly. Two-inch or high-capacity pleated filters can be changed every other month or about six times per year.

Carrier’s standard factory limited warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship during the warranty period. It provides a new or remanufactured part at Carrier’s discretion, but does not cover labor. Your warranty certificate, included in your homeowner information packet, details the specific terms.

Programmable thermostats can help save on energy costs by tailoring your heating and cooling system to your schedule, ensuring efficient operation when you're home and conserving energy when you're away.

Alert codes indicate various system statuses or issues. They can be categorized as: Conditions, which are informational alerts like software updates; Faults, which are issues that need attention but may not immediately affect operation; and Malfunctions, which are serious issues requiring immediate service.

Variable-speed systems operate in longer, lower-speed cycles, providing consistent comfort and energy efficiency. Two-stage systems have two levels of operation—high for extreme temperatures and low for milder days—offering improved efficiency over single-stage systems.

Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, making them versatile for year-round comfort. They are especially efficient in moderate climates and can be an energy-saving alternative to traditional systems.

Your Carrier dealer can perform an indoor air analysis, providing personalized results in approximately 30 minutes. This assessment can identify pollutants and help determine solutions to improve your home's air quality.

BTU stands for British Thermal Unit. It's a measurement of energy, specifically the amount required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. 

While setting back your thermostat can save energy, drastic changes might lead to discomfort and increased humidity or dryness. A moderate adjustment of 2–3 degrees is recommended. For extended absences, like vacations, more significant adjustments can be beneficial, but it's essential to consider potential impacts on home humidity and comfort.

It's not recommended to fully wrap your A/C unit, as this can trap moisture and invite pests, leading to potential damage. However, placing a cover over the top can protect against falling debris like leaves or icicles. 

Electronic air cleaners, such as the Aprilaire 5000, can capture up to 99% of airborne particles, including viruses and ultra-fine pollutants as small as 0.3 microns. This significantly improves indoor air quality compared to standard filters.

UV systems sterilize airborne microorganisms, preventing them from reproducing. Once neutralized, these particles are captured by your HVAC system's filtration, enhancing overall air cleanliness. 

Typically, UV-C lamps are effective for about 12 months. Some advanced models may last between 2 to 4 years. Regular replacement ensures optimal air purification performance. 

An HRV system helps balance indoor humidity by expelling moist air and bringing in fresh outdoor air. It also tempers incoming cold air, ensuring your home remains comfortable even during colder months. 

If your home has been sealed tightly for energy efficiency—through window upgrades or added insulation—you might notice increased indoor humidity or condensation on windows. An HRV can help by introducing fresh air and reducing moisture levels. 

Yes, we offer both annual and bi-annual maintenance plans. These plans include scheduled tune-ups to keep your system running smoothly throughout the year. 

Servicing your AC system helps it operate efficiently as well as helps to extend it’s life. Regular AC maintenance is recommended two times per year, once in the spring and once in the fall. As AC systems age they start to lose efficiency which in turn decreases your comfort. Servicing your AC system regularly can help it keep you cool and comfortable.

The cost of AC maintenance will vary based on what is included in the service. A planned maintenance agreement can help you ensure you are aware of all charges for your air conditioning maintenance as well as save you money with discounts on repairs as well as accessories.

If your AC system is over 10 years old or making strange noises it may be time to consider a system replacement. Older unit are not as efficient as newer ones which can cause an increase in your utility bills. If you have noticed a rise in electric bills in the past year calling for a free system replacement estimate may make sense.

While you can replace just your outside AC unit there are a couple reasons you may not want to. Only replacing your outside AC unit may make it more expensive to replace the rest of your system in the long run. Matching your system is also important which is a reason most people choose to replace both the indoor and outdoor portions of their HVAC systems. If you are considering replacing your HVAC system calling for a free system replacement estimate can help you decide what makes the most sense for your home.

Aging AC units tend to create an increase in utility bills including electric. If you are seeing a rise in your electric bill your AC unit may be to blame. Units over 10 years are less efficient than newer systems causing this issue. Although we cannot guarantee you will see a decrease in your utility bills a new AC system may help you see a change in your electric bill.

SEER rating stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. A 16 SEER unit uses an average of 13% less energy to cool your home compared to a 14 SEER unit. Higher SEER ratings equal higher efficiency which in the long run saves you money as they operate.

If your AC system is making strange noises you may be in need of a repair. Noises can run from humming to banging to hissing. Any of these noises should be evaluated by a licensed HVAC professional. Trying to diagnose a strange AC noise yourself is not recommended.

If your AC system is not blowing cold air check your filter and condenser coil. When you see ice buildup turn your system off to defrost it then call a licensed HVAC professional to diagnose the problem. If you are in need of repair they can help you get back to the comfort you deserve.

A few things can cause an AC compressor to stop working including blocked suction lines or a dirty condenser coil. If you think your AC compressor is not working as it should we recommend calling an HVAC professional to look over your system. While the problem may seem simple they can help diagnose it as well as give you a recommended plan of action to repair it.