FAQ

The important of HVAC maintenance is to ensure optimum efficiency, safety, and performance. Dirt, dust and other debris is an HVAC system’s worst enemy. Whether it’s an indoor or outdoor unit, you must keep all filters clean and heat exchangers and coils free of restrictions.

We recommend that your heating and cooling system be checked and serviced annually; ideally a spring / summer/ fall tune-up.

Also we recommend that you change your filter monthly, depending on the type of filter you have. This alone can eliminate many of the most common problems that need fixing and can significantly reduce the likelihood of a serious breakdown.

If you have one of our Allergy 2000 Washable filters – they must be back-washed on a monthly basis to ensure efficiency. Even though these filters look clean on the outside, dust can be hidden with the filter itself and give the illusion its clean.

Locate the label on the outer surface of the equipment for a manufacture date. On a furnace this label is usually inside the top or bottom compartment so removing the doors may be necessary. If the equipment is less than five years old it may have a warranty, but longer and shorter warranty periods are possible. Warranty terms and conditions change by manufacturer and the installing company.

Furlong HVAC Services can verify the warranty status of your heating and cooling system via our Warranty Inquiry Form.

If we installed your equipment, chances are pretty good that we registered the warranty on your behalf and have this info on hand. For ICP – Keeprite products, registration extends the initial 5 year parts warranty to a total of 10 years*. We register all furnaces, boilers, central air systems, and HRV’s on behalf of our clients for most residential applications*.

* some restrictions apply

Regular filter replacement (or back-washing of permanent media) helps your heating and cooling system operate at peak levels and improves indoor air quality. This will help ensure proper air flow and remove most of the dust and allergens that pass through the system. Depending on the type of filter you have, you may require weekly or monthly filter replacements. Your Furlong HVAC service or installation technician will recommend the ideal filters and replacement schedules for your unit(s).

Yes. Loud heating and cooling equipment contribute to sound pollution. Although no financial savings are tied to lower sound levels, the sound rating of a cooling system can have a considerable effect on your and your neighbors, comfort and enjoyment of the home and patio. The sound level of an air conditioner or heat pump depends on a variety of factors, such as the SEER of the unit, and whether the compressor is insulated with a special sound jacket or not can contribute to the amount of noise it makes.

I get asked this a lot … Set it to what ever setting you’re comfortable. Everybody has different preferences.

Here’s a few symptoms that may raise a flag though…

• Is it cooling or heating all areas of your home sufficiently?
• Has it been taking longer to cool down or heat up?
• Have your utility bills been rising for no apparent reason?

Any of these are signs that you may have a problem that needs service. In most cases, the longer you delay, the worse any underlying problems will get. So be sure to contact Furlong HVAC Services to check out your system whenever you notice anything out of the ordinary.

A few quick tips:

• Clean and replace your filters frequently.
• Your system will heat and cool more evenly when the blower is in the “fan on” position. The blower provides constant air movement throughout the home, and provides even distribution and balance.
• Install shades, drapes, shutters, or screens on windows that are exposed to extreme sunlight to keep room temperatures at moderate levels.
• Have the equipment services annually
• IF you have a boiler system, it’s vital that periodic water tests are done, as well as regular servicing.

You may have tried to cover up indoor odors by spraying air fresheners or lighting candles. Unfortunately, these tactics only mask the odors, they don’t get rid of them. These remedies may in fact negatively affect indoor air quality from chemicals that cause allergic reactions or eye irritation for homeowners.

Bacteria, dust mites, animal dander, cat saliva and mold may also be roots of your home’s odor problem. One method to purify the air is integrating germicidal (UV) lights in your home, which helps kill odors and inhibit the growth of biological contaminants, sterilizing surfaces in the HVAC system. They also purify the air, preventing the growth of contaminants. The UV lights are installed to work with your home comfort system.

Sometimes poor ventilation contributes to unpleasant odors. Moisture condensation on walls windows and stagnate air are signs of poor ventilation. Furlong HVAC Services can inspect your home comfort system to determine if this is an issue that should be addressed. The technician can also inform you how to solve the ventilation system’s ability to correctly circulate and ventilate indoor air.

Every person and every home entails a different comfort needs. The threshold of irritability and triggers that affect people’s health and comfort combined and can all be remedied by various solutions. High threshold levels may require simple solutions like a better air filter. Low threshold levels may require a HEPPA air purification system for the reduction of triggers and irritants. Furlong HVAC Services can help you decide which indoor air improvement products are right for you.

According to recent studies, exposure to air pollutants indoors can be 100 times higher than outdoors. Frequent dusting and vacuuming can help reduce the amount of dust and dust mites present in your home. However, not all airborne particles can be eliminated. Filtration devices can help eliminate particles that are too small to be caught by a vacuum. Some filtration devices include UV light units, air filters, energy recovery ventilators (ERVs), heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) and electronic air cleaners. Give us a call and we’ll provide you with information on various solutions and recommend something for you.