If you're not a heating and cooling technician, an HVAC service quote might look like a foreign language. It's helpful to learn some terms and concepts that can help you decipher these quotes, but you should also be able to ask your technician to explain any recommended item or service.
If you have a heat pump, these are the parts you need to know about:
- The outdoor unit contains the condenser coil, compressor, reversing valve and fan.
- The condenser coil contains refrigerant, either freon or another type, depending on the age of the equipment.
- The condenser coil also has fins that are designed to transfer heat.
- The indoor unit is composed of the air handler, evaporator coils, fan, humidifier and air-filtration system.
The services that may be included on your HVAC service quote include:
- Checking and adjusting the refrigerant level. If you need additional refrigerant, you will be charged according to the amount needed. If your equipment still uses freon, consider upgrading to a system that does not use ozone-depleting refrigerants.
- Checking for and repairing refrigerant leaks in the condenser coils. Small leaks are relatively easy to repair, but again, if the system is leaking freon, think about upgrading.
- Cleaning fins and repairing damaged ones.
- Compressor replacement, particularly if you have an older system. If this service is recommended, discuss with your contractor whether it makes more sense to upgrade the entire system to a new, energy-efficient unit.
- Cleaning evaporator coils. This is an inexpensive service that can help improve energy efficiency.
- Components such as the air-filtration system, humidifier and small motors generally require only minor repairs and do not justify equipment replacement or upgrading.
Getting an HVAC service quote does not need to be a scary experience. Before moving forward, make sure you understand all the recommendations. If you don't, just ask.
No matter what heating and cooling decision you are facing, the trained professionals at Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning will provide you with a comprehensive HVAC service quote so you can make an informed decision about your valuable home-comfort equipment.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about HVAC service quotes and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Solutions Guide.
Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning serves the Route 495/128 area of Medway MA. Visit our website to see our special offers to get started today!
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