Question 1

How often should my HVAC system be serviced?

Accepted Answer

In order to keep certain warranties valid, the manufacturer REQUIRES that you have at least one maintenance visit per year.  An annual maintenance agreement includes two seasonal maintenance visit and substantial savings throughout the year!  Do I Really Need HVAC Maintenance?

Question 2

When should I replace my HVAC system?

Accepted Answer

If any two or more of these conditions apply to your home's heating and air conditioning system, it may be time to replace it: 1. System runs longer in order to reach the thermostat's set temperature. 2. The system is starting to make unexplained noises. 3. You have had or are in need of numerous costly repairs. 4. Your system has no history of routine maintenance. 5. Your system is 10+ years old.

Question 3

What is a ductless mini-split system?

Accepted Answer

A ductless mini-split system is an alternative to traditional heating and cooling like central air. Ductless HVAC works similarly to central heating and cooling, except that it doesn’t require ductwork.  Learn more about ductless heating and cooling.

Question 4

How often should I change my filter(s)?

Accepted Answer

The frequency in which you should change your air filters depend on a few factors: * air filter model * number of pets * household size and traffic * dust, air pollution, etc. around your home   For standard 1-3" filters, you should replace them every 30-60 days, depending on how dirty they are.   See Understanding HVAC Air Filters.

Question 5

What type of routine maintenance can I do myself?

Accepted Answer

1. Replace your filters regularly - every 30 to 90 days - based on how dirty it is. 2. Keep your outdoor unit free of debris (twigs, leaves, dirt, grass clippings, etc.) 3. Keep your condensate drain clean to prevent a buildup of mold, algae, and debris by mixing bleach with one cup of hot water and pour it down the drain. 4. Report any strange noises, odors, and operations to your HVAC professional immediately.  5. Test your carbon monoxide detector regularly.  Replace the batteries every six months.

Question 6

What does HVAC mean?

Accepted Answer

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

Question 7

What are the components that make up an HVAC system?

Accepted Answer

There are different types of HVAC systems and installation applications.  For a detailed explanation, visit What's Your Type?

Question 8

Why should I replace my old HVAC system?

Accepted Answer

The initial cost of an HVAC system replacement can be high, but there are many ways you can benefit from a new system: 1. substantial energy savings 2. your old system uses outdated technology 3. your air conditioner or heat pump utilizes R22 refrigerant 4. maximize comfort 5. avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses with a parts and labor warranty 6. lower maintenance costs

Question 9

Does my homeowners insurance cover HVAC systems?

Accepted Answer

A typical homeowners insurance policy covers your heating and air conditioning systems ONLY if they're damaged by fire, flood, high winds, fallen trees, theft, hail, lightning strike, etc.  It will not cover your system due to normal wear and tear, owner neglect, or old age.

Question 10

How much does routine maintenance cost?

Accepted Answer

A one-time maintenance visit is $89 for the first system and $69 each additional system.  Before you schedule, check for seasonal specials!   For maximum benefits, sign up for our annual Maintenance Agreement.  The cost is $149 for the first system and $100 each additional system.  During that year, you will receive: 1. heating system maintenance 2. cooling system maintenance 3. priority service in the event of a breakdown 4. 15% discount on repairs

Question 11

What if I need a repair on a holiday or weekend?

Accepted Answer

No worries!  Whether your problem happens during normal business hours or on Memorial Day, our HVAC service team is available to get your system back up and running.  Just call 704-821-6255.   You can also try our Chat feature below to see if there are some minor things you can check before scheduling a repair.

Question 12

How important is Indoor Air Quality?

Accepted Answer

Your indoor air quality can be as much as 100 times worse than the outdoor air. That means pollutants, allergens, dust, and mildew can be circulating in your home affecting your family’s health and wellbeing. Improving and maintaining your indoor air quality is vitally important to your home and family.  What's Your IAQ IQ?

Question 13

Should I cover my outdoor unit in the Fall & Winter?

Accepted Answer

We do not recommend covering your outdoor unit. This equipment is built to withstand outdoor temperatures and elements. Your outdoor unit will be checked for debris and cleaned during routine maintenance.

Question 14

What kind of warranty will I get with a new HVAC system?

Accepted Answer

At Helms Heating & Air, most of our system replacements come with a 10 year parts warranty and 2 years labor.  You will also have options to extend the labor coverage to 5 years or 10 years.

Question 15

How can I educate myself about my HVAC system?

Accepted Answer

As with any major purchase, when it's time to replace your heating and air conditioning system, we encourage you to take a little time to educate yourself.  This knowledge will give you the power to choose the best option for your home's HVAC system while staying within your budget.  see HVAC:  Knowledge Is Power

Question 16

How can I save money on my energy bills?

Accepted Answer

Heating and air conditioning is the biggest energy user in most homes, accounting for more than 40 percent of a home's energy bills, so it is important to make sure your system is operating as efficiently as possible.  If your system is fine, check your home for issues that could be contributing to your high energy costs.  Inefficient Home or HVAC?

Question 17

How do I know if my heating and cooling equipment is covered under warranty?

Accepted Answer

You’ll want to find the original installation date. If your unit is under five years old, it might still be warrantied. However, warranty terms and conditions vary by manufacturer and installing company.  At Helms Heating & Air, we can verify your existing parts and labor warranties.   see HVAC Warranty 101

Question 18

Why is my HVAC system making noises?

Accepted Answer

No matter how old your heating system is, it is going to make some noise. However, there are some HVAC-related sounds that you shouldn’t overlook. It is important that you can determine what is normal and what is not in order to identify the source.  Find out more at What's That Noise?!

Question 19

Can I troubleshoot my air conditioning problems?

Accepted Answer

We always recommend contacting the experts for a professional diagnosis.  But there are some easy checks that you can perform.   Troubleshoot Your A/C Problems

Question 20

Will a bigger air conditioner perform better?

Accepted Answer

No.  It is important to purchase an air conditioner that is properly sized for your home.  One that is too large or too small will be less efficient, short-cycle, and leave moisture in the air.

Question 21

What should I do when my A/C is frozen?

Accepted Answer

When your A/C freezes up (outside OR inside at the evaporator coil), you have a problem.  Turn the system off immediately.  If your filters are clogged, replace them, give the system a few hours to thaw, and turn the system back on.  If your filters are not clogged, leave the system off and schedule a service call.  You could subject your system to serious damage if it isn't addressed promptly by a professional.

Question 22

What is the best thermostat setting for summer?

Accepted Answer

Saving money on your monthly electric bills in the summer is important—so what is the best thermostat setting during the hottest season of the year? We recommend keeping your thermostat set to 72 degrees with the fan set to AUTO.

Question 23

When should I replace my air conditioner?

Accepted Answer

If your air conditioner is 10+ years old, it is probably less energy efficient.  If your air conditioner is breaking down a lot and requiring expensive repairs, you should consider replacing it with new, more efficient equipment.

Question 24

What is Two-Stage cooling?

Accepted Answer

Two-stage cooling means the air conditioner or heat pump has a compressor with two levels of operation: high for hot summer days and low for milder days.  Since the low setting is adequate to meet your cooling demands a majority of the time, a two-stage unit runs for longer periods and produces more even temperatures.

Question 25

Can I troubleshoot my heating problems?

Accepted Answer

If you notice something wrong with heating system, we wouldn't recommend you try repairing it yourself.  Where your family's comfort is concerned, you want the repairs done safely and correctly.   However, there are a few things you can check before scheduling an appointment.  Learn more at Before You Call For Heating Repairs.

Question 26

When should I replace my furnace?

Accepted Answer

There are a number of factors that contribute to needing a furnace replacement. How old is your furnace? If it’s over 10 – 15 years old, it’s likely time for a furnace replacement—simply because this will improve your energy efficiency. Other factors include: how well it’s heating your home, how often it requires repairs, how much it costs to heat your home, etc.

Still have questions? Let's chat!

1013 Technology Drive, PO Box 1827
Indian Trail, NC 28079

704-821-6255