Family-owned for 4 generations and servicing tri-state area since 1955
SEER stands for “Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio.” The higher the number the more efficient the air conditioner is. For example, a 13 SEER air conditioner is now a standard efficient unit, therefore a 16 SEER is higher efficiency than a 13 SEER.
No! If you let the inside of your home overheat, it will take many hours for your air conditioner to recuperate to a comfortable temperature. Walls and furniture absorb the temperature and once the temperature you desire is reached it is easier on your air conditioner to maintain it. Using a digital programmable thermostat is the most efficient way to help maintain the temperature in your home.
It is not that simple. Larger is not always better! To have an energy-efficient system with good indoor air quality, a home should have a load calculation done for a properly sized high efficient air conditioner. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office anytime.
No! An evaporative cooler will only cool the outside air down 10 to 12 degrees below the ambient temperature. So if it is 110 degrees outside the cooler will be below 100 degrees air with at least 80% humidity. When you turn on your central air conditioner it will have to work harder to remove the humidity before it can even start cooling. An air conditioner and an evaporative cooler are not designed to work together. An evaporative cooler produces humidity and a central air conditioner removes humidity.
Yes! If a power outage occurs in a way that the power quickly turns off then back on again your compressor will try and start under an extreme load. Breakers and Overload components are supposed to protect your air conditioner but sometimes it is not enough and your compressor can be damaged internally beyond repair. To protect your air conditioner from a power outage, River Valley Air Conditioning can install a power outage surge protector to monitor incoming power to cycle your air conditioner as needed so you don’t have to worry about it.
The time frame to replace an existing unit would be anywhere from 12-15 years old. A few units last longer than that with regular care. Also, when replacing a unit (heater or air conditioner), replace both units and select the same manufacturer as well. This can extend the lifespan of your new units.
We recommend that your heating and cooling system be checked and serviced twice a year; a Spring & Fall Tune-Up. Also, we recommend that you change your filter regularly, depending on the type of filter you have. This will eliminate the many problems that can occur when proper maintenance isn’t followed.
This is one way of protecting you from sudden breakdowns in equipment and a reminder that regular maintenance is needed. By having a contract, depending on the level you choose, you will be reminded of your fall and spring tune-ups, changing of filters, and new information regarding coupons and rewards. Also, if your existing equipment needs repair or replacement, then your part will be covered or a discount on replacing the new equipment.
Most companies in the HVAC industry don’t express the need to be there for their customers after the installation or service of heating and cooling systems. Research a company’s background, ask a friend or neighbor, or see recent work that they have done. A good reliable company, like us, will back every part of our work, whether it is through our maintenance contracts or excellent customer service. Remember, you are spending a lot of money on repairs or replacement of equipment and the last thing you have to worry about is if it was done right!
Depending on the type of filter you have, it might require weekly or monthly replacement. It is important to change regularly to ensure the correct airflow is not being blocked, that the dirty germs or contents are not recycled into your home, and prevents the unit from sudden breakdowns and repairs. Call to ask how often it is to replace your filter and what else you can do to eliminate these contents better.
A disposable air filter just keeps your air conditioner from plugging up with debris. According to the world health organization, the number one killer on earth is upper respiratory infections. The average person spends 90% of the time indoors; and your indoor air is, on the average seven times more polluted than the air outdoors per the US environmental protection agency. A single cubic foot of hot air can contain millions of bacteria, mold, and virus micro organisms-none of which we can see. Ultraviolet air purifiers and electrostatic filters are the only way to eliminate threatening microorganisms, common indoor pollutants and neutralize odors in your home.
When you are ready to replace your existing equipment, it is good to keep 3 things in mind. First, choose a manufacturer that has a good reputation for repairs and maintenance. Also, choose a model with high-efficiency equipment to bring you better comfort and lower your seasonal energy bill. A High Efficient Variable Speed Heat Pump is one great way. Second, choose the correct equipment size and system for your home. Don’t just buy one that is on sale and seems like a great deal, do some research on it or ask the installation representative for more product information. Finally, choose a reliable company with excellent customer satisfaction. One way is to ask to see previous comments on customer reports. Remember, this is a one-time investment for the next 15 years, choose wisely!
Ask for the many different ways that you can finance this investment. Financing can be available interest-free up to 12 months OAC.
Most older thermostats have mercury in them and now have been banned by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). A new digital thermostat is safer for the environment and keeps a more accurate temperature so it can save on your bill.
The climate in our Tri-State area is perfect for high-efficiency heat pumps if installed and operated properly. Heat pumps when in the heating cycle operate like an air conditioner in reverse. Set your thermostat at a comfortable temperature and let it operate. Heat pumps have a defrost cycle that will de-ice your outdoor coil if ice builds up. This cycle is automatic and will take no longer than just a couple of minutes. Just leave it alone and let the system cycle and it will maintain an even temperature. If you have any questions regarding a heat pump operation please feel free to call anytime.
The smoke that sets your fire alarm off is caused by the lent and dust on your furnace heat exchanger. This actually could become a fire hazard. A fall preseason service & cleaning is recommended to help prevent this. In the fall preseason service points of interest would be regular filter changes and proper fit, return air duct properly sealed, and a clean blower.
Contact us – our technicians are ready to help you solve that issue.
Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Saturday - Sunday: Closed
Monday - Friday: 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Saturday - Sunday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm