FAQ

LHT Cooling and Heating answers heating and air questions that they are frequently asked by clients. Nonetheless, feel free contact us here or read more below:

What is a service call fee?

A Service Call fee is a bill for the expense associated with the time and travel to diagnose, inspect and provide you with expert recommendations for your HVAC repairs.

Why don’t you charge by the hour?

Similar to value menu at a local restaurant, charging a flat rate cost instead of an hourly cost provides more value for our customers, because everything is included. The pricing is up-front and it does not adjust. Regardless of the cost of parts or amount of time it takes to make the repairs, the price will NOT change.

Why is it important to have regular maintenance on my heating and air conditioning system?

You probably wouldn’t buy a brand new car and assume to never have to inflate the tires, change the oil, or need other repairs. Your home comfort system is similar to your car’s engine. It’s a mechanical device with a motor and electrical components. So it is essential to have routine maintenance done by a qualified, licensed HVAC technician.

Do I really have to change my air filters often?

YES! Changing your air filters every 3 months will not only save on your monthly utility bills, but it will help extend the life of your system. Changing your filters every month is even better, especially if anyone in the home suffers from allergies or respiratory ailments.

Why should I replace my existing heating or air conditioning system?

You may wish to consider replacement over repairs if your system is old, inefficient, or needs very costly repairs. Today’s systems are 60 percent more efficient than those manufactured as little as 10 years ago.

Will a bigger system perform better?

NO – you don’t want your air conditioner to be too large. Air conditioners control the comfort level in your home by cooling the air and removing humidity. An oversized a/c unit can cool your home faster, but it will use more energy and will not remove the humidity adequately. In addition, your existing ductwork will not be able to support the airflow of a larger system.

How long can I expect a new system to last?

No one ever likes the answer to this question. However, if you have a qualified technician perform regular maintenance and service suggested for your unit, industry averages suggest that an air conditioner should last 12 – 15 years (units located along coastal areas WILL BE LESS) and a gas furnace could last as long as 20 years.

Can you give me a price without an in-home consultation?

No, we do not provide a quote over the phone, as pricing varies based on your needs and the unique conditions of your home. In order to properly size your system, a detailed load calculation must be performed by a qualified technician. Installing an oversized or undersized unit may result in higher utility bills and your system may not heat or cool at capacity.

What temperature should I set my thermostat?

Obviously, the time of year becomes a big factor for desired temperature settings. In the summer months, the average setting is around 78 degrees. In the winter, 70 degrees is the most common setting. However, your personal comfort level will play a significant role. Remember when leaving your house to adjust the temperature, but not more than 5 degrees.

How do I know if I have an existing warranty on my HVAC equipment?

Locate the label on the equipment for a manufacture date. If the equipment is less than 5 years old, it probably is under warranty – but you will need to check with the manufacturer. If you are NOT the original owner who purchased the equipment, the warranty may NOT transfer. Warranty terms and conditions change by manufacturer and installer.

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