Air Conditioning Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What does SEER stand for?
A: SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It is used to indicate the efficiency of air conditioning systems. The higher the SEER, the more cooling you get per unit of energy. As of January 2006, only units with a SEER of 13 or higher can be manufactured and sold in the U.S. Today’s cooling systems are up to 40% more efficient than those made as recently as 10 years ago.
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Q: My home has a forced-air furnace but no air conditioning. Can I add central air?
A: You bet! We can mount a cooling coil on top of the furnace and install a condensing unit outside. Please see our air conditioning page for more information or call us for a free estimate.
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Q: Why does it cost so much to run an air conditioning system?
A: Air conditioning systems run on electricity, and electricity is the most expensive energy source. Converting fuels like coal or natural gas into electricity is inherently inefficient. What’s more, much of the original electricity generated at the power plant is lost during transmission over power lines. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, electricity used in the home has an average efficiency of only 33%.
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Q: Do I really need a tune-up for my cooling system?
A: An air conditioning tune-up and inspection will help catch service problems before they get you hot under the collar. Many breakdowns occur on the hottest day of the year—because that’s when your a/c is under the most stress. And because a tune-up ensures that your system will run at peak efficiency, you'll lower your electric bills. A system that's running efficiently can save you as much as 25% on your cooling costs. So give us a call to schedule your annual tune-up!
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If you have questions other than those listed above, send us an email or give us a call at (610) 566-7600.