A yearly Preventive Maintenance Service Plan on your system is a wise thing to do.  Note the words "Preventive Maintenance".  When done properly, maintaining your system will save money on energy bills.  Just as importantly, year Preventive Maintenace Service helps your system last longer!  Dirt is the biggest enemy of mechanical systems.  During  Preventative Maintenance Service, certain parts that can cause trouble when dirty are cleaned to keep the system running smoothly and efficiently.  Another benefit is that problems can be discovered before serious damage is done so appropraite measures can be taken before a complete breakdown in the middle of winter or on a hot, humid day.

Carbon Monoxide, also known as the "Silent Killer", can pose a serious threat in some instances and is yet another reason to have your heater inspected by someone you trust.  Carbon Monoxide detectors, which have been improved over the last couple of years, are a wise investment.

Also review "Dangers of Carbon Monoxide"

To size an A/C unit for a specific area requires a heat load calculation which is usually done by a licensed, experienced HVAC Contractor qualified to make the analysis.

A quick and easy rule of thumb to use for sizing an Air Conditioner for a room or house is the square foot method.  This formula is used only for a quick approximation and is based on certain guidelines regarding insulation R values, shading, ceiling height, construction materials, windows, doors, purpose of use and occupancy.  In layman's terms, 1-ton of cooling capacity is equal to 12,000 BTU's of cooling capacity; and 400-600 square feet (depending on where you live, insulation and overall home efficiency) of residential living space requires 1-ton of cooling capacity.

Example: a 2000 sq ft living area, divided by 500 sq ft would roughly require a 4-ton system to accomodate this size home

A clogged drain line may be caused by mud build up and can usually be flushed out.  This service is usually done when Preventive Maintenance is being performed on your Air Conditioner.  Contractors usually use high pressure gas to blow out the drain line; but you can clean the drain yourself by disconnecting the drain line at the unit and forcing water from your garden hose through it.  Or if you have a shopvac, you can connect it to the drain line where it terminate outside the house.

The most common reason a system will not run is because of a loss of power.  Always check for a tripped breaker!  Make sure you turn it all the way off by pusing it into the "off" position so you feel it "latch" and then turn it back on.  If it trips again instantly, call a contractor and have it checked out.  DO NOT reset it again.

Pleated Air Filters provide a greater surface area than a standard filter. 

Electrostatic Air Filters are like a poorman's electronic air filter.  Strands of plastic are interwoven and crate static electricity as air passes through, much like rubbing a balloon on your shirt, attracting dust. 

Electronic Air Cleaners use a powerful charge of electricity to zap dust, pollens, etc., and they sound just like a bug zapper when in use.

Annually.  Having your unit serviced yearly when help insure the efficiency and life expectancy of that new unit.

Typically, any contractor can honor the manufacturers warranty on equipment still under warranty even if they did not install it.

Most HVAC contractors can add a Power Ventilator to an existing structure.  This brings cool air into the attic and lowers the heat load in the home, therefore allowing your system to run less and operate more efficiently.  This helps the unit last longer and helps decrease utility bills.