In recent posts we’ve covered signs your AC needs to be repaired and how to choose the best HVAC unit for your home or business. To continue the theme of addressing your most pressing HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and cooling) curiosities, today we’re going to cover five of the most asked HVAC questions we hear. Although we always encourage you to call us when you have questions, getting these basic queries answered is sometimes all you need to know to make informed decisions.
Sometimes we’re surprised just by how few people understand the importance of indoor air quality. Exposure to pollutants indoors is 10 times higher than outside, affecting the health of everyone in a building, especially those who suffer from asthma and other breathing issues. Sustained exposure to poor air quality can also create health issues, making it a necessity to maintain your HVAC system to effectively eliminate air pollutants.
‘OEM’ stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. This means that the components of a system were made specifically for that unit by the original manufacturer. For example, all Trane unit systems that we sell are comprised of components made specifically by Trane – not some third-party manufacturer. The benefit is that the original manufacturer knows those parts, developed and designed them, and stands behind them. Non-OEM products are usually cheaper, but generally are reduced in quality and do not come with any warranties.
If you experience too little humidity, the air can get too dry, causing bloody noses and respiratory issues. Too much humidity can cause mold and mildew growth, also leading to lung and sinus issues. Your home or business is affected by low or high humidity in the form of damage to wood furniture and flooring. Too much or too little humidity also can create an environment in which bacteria and viruses thrive. Your best practice involves using a humidifier or dehumidifier to moderate humidity levels.
The short answer is, “It depends.” If your system isn’t emitting cold air like it used to or if you’re noticing temperature fluctuations in different rooms, it may be necessary to upgrade completely. However, there are basic things you can do if your HVAC system works reasonably well. One addition is a programmable thermostat that can help you save up to $180 per year. You can also ask an HVAC professional about Energy Star options and maintenance tips that could help you save money.
Although we certainly hope you’d choose Gorman Mechanical for your HVAC needs, an unbiased answer would be directing you to www.hvac.com. This is a contractor directory, complete with a thorough listing of heating and cooling professionals all around the country. Once you find one that seems to supply the services you’re after, check for reviews on Google and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Gorman Mechanical has an “A+” rating with the BBB and a “Super Service Award” with Angie’s List, adding to the evidence of our esteemed reputation throughout North Texas.
We’ve answered the basic HVAC questions, giving you a better understanding of the HVAC industry and systems. For more questions, feel free to call us at 817-238-1616 or visit our home page.