MAGIC MIKE'S
HEATING AND COOLING INC.
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971-291-6542
HVAC FAQs
Here we are going over some of the frequently asked questions when it comes to HVAC and your home central air conditioning system.
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Question #1.
Can I walk into an HVAC store and buy parts or equipment?
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Answer:
you cannot walk into just any HVAC equipment supplier and expect them to sell you anything. unless your a HVAC specialty contractor and set up a business account.
With that said there is one DIY HVAC business here in portland that we know of.
there name is vinje and sons sheet metal and they are highly recommended.
Question #2.
What exactly is HVAC?
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Answer:
HVAC is an acronym for Heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Sometimes there is an R afterwards, as in HVAC/R. This adds the aspect of commercial refrigeration.
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Question #3.
How long does HVAC equipment last?
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Answer:
On Average they last about 15-20years. Units are Being built with a 20 year life expectancy. of course the life expectancy will vary Depending on when it was made and who made it. The further back you look the longer the systems lasted. We have come a long way from cast-iron and brick, and that's why they say "they don't make them like they used to"
Question #4.
How often should I service my HVAC system?
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Answer:
follow manufacturer guidelines in order to maintain valid warranties.
Most manufacturer guidelines recommend Once per year.
Typically A/C maintenances are done May-June
and Furnace maintenances are done sep-oct
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Question#5.
What size AC unit do i need for my home?
Answer:
you can get a rough estimate with these rules of thumb.
This is for our region here in Portland Oregon.
Using conventional equipment
1.5 tons= 600-1000sq ft
2.0 tons= 1001-1300sq ft
2.5 tons= 1301-1600sq ft
3.0 tons= 1601-1900sq ft
3.5 tons= 1901-2200sq ft
4.0 tons= 2201-2600sq ft
​ 5.0 tons= 2601-3200sq ft
typically you don't count your garage unless its finished and is supplied with conditioned air. Newer homes that might be regarded as "tight" homes may require a bit less btu's and a bit more fresh air.
These are just general guidelines and for better accuracy a load calculation can be done.
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For Mini-splits you go off of room size
Here is for the most common sizes
350-400sq ft =3/4ton(9,000Btuh)
450-550sq ft= 1.0 ton(12,000BTUH)
700-1000sqft= 1.5 ton(18,000BTUH)
up to 1500 sq ft=2 ton(24,000btuh)​
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Question#6.
What can i do to lower my energy bills?
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Answer:
There are numerous ways you can lower your cooling bill in the summer months.
First lets make sure all the lights and tv's are off when they are not in use.
Make sure All the windows remain closed while the day heats up and especially when its at the hottest part of the day. Open windows at Night to cool down the structure.
Close windows again in the morning.
Use Black-out curtains for all large windows.
Keep the furnace fan on Even if you don't have A/C.
replace the filters as needed.
turn off and unplug any unused electrical device, even the charging blocks.
check for gaps and drafts at exterior doors/windows. seal up any gaps and consider using a draft preventer at the bottom of the door.
If you have a basement ensure air from the basement is circulating through the house.
If you have A/C maintenance is the best thing you can do for it.
Try To cook outside. to keep the heat from cooking out of the house. BBQ is a great way to handle the heat.
Work outs should be conducted outside.
The Idea here is BTU infiltration. there is only heat and the absence of heat. we are not Creating cold with an air conditioner. we are moving the BTU's out of the building envelope. So if the heat(btu) infiltration is slowed that means the A/C is going to be "on" less,
thus saving you $$.
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Question #7.
Why is my house still warm with my Air-conditioner on?
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Answer:
it Could be that there is excessive heat infiltration as in: Lots of guests and the exterior doors are opening constantly.
but if everything is normal at home and its not keeping up how it usually does that can be a sign of poor performance.
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Question#8.
What can i check for before calling for service?
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Answer:
1) check the filter. If its dirty replace it. Check to see if your system starts cooling better.
2) check for ice. If your filter was really dirty and there is ice anywhere on the system (usually it will be at the indoor coil). replace filter and allow enough time for all the ice to melt completely. then start the system up again.
3) Check the Breaker. if the breaker is tripped the unit will not run. re-set breaker one time only. If it re-trips instantly you will need a repairman.
4) check the thermostat batteries and replace if needed.
5) ensure that the thermostat is calling for cooling.
6) check for obvious obstructions as in branch that fell into unit.
7)check to see if the indoor fan is spinning
8)take note if there were any loud noises or burning smells.
These notes will help the technician get to the heart of the problem.
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