AC Repair Questions and Answers
Common causes include low refrigerant, a failing capacitor, dirty coils, or restricted airflow from a clogged filter. In Charlotte’s humid summers, systems also struggle if they’re undersized or overdue for maintenance.
As soon as possible. High humidity and heat put extra strain on systems, and small issues can quickly lead to a full breakdown if not addressed.
Clicking sounds, hard starts, warm air, or the outdoor unit not turning on are common signs. Capacitors fail frequently in summer, while compressor issues are more serious.
This is called short cycling and can be caused by thermostat issues, an oversized system, or restricted airflow. It reduces efficiency and increases wear on your system.
AC Installation & Replacement Questions & Answers
Common causes include low refrigerant, a failing capacitor, dirty coils, or restricted airflow from a clogged filter. In Charlotte’s humid summers, systems also struggle if they’re undersized or overdue for maintenance.
As soon as possible. High humidity and heat put extra strain on systems, and small issues can quickly lead to a full breakdown if not addressed.
Clicking sounds, hard starts, warm air, or the outdoor unit not turning on are common signs. Capacitors fail frequently in summer, while compressor issues are more serious.
This is called short cycling and can be caused by thermostat issues, an oversized system, or restricted airflow. It reduces efficiency and increases wear on your system.
Heating Questions & Answers
Heat pumps can feel cooler than traditional heating systems, but if it’s blowing cold air continuously, it may be in defrost mode, low on refrigerant, or experiencing a mechanical issue.
If your system is over 10 years old or struggling to keep up in colder months, replacement may improve efficiency and comfort.
Maintenance & Tune-Ups
Twice per year is recommended, once before summer and once before winter, to keep both cooling and heating systems running efficiently.
Maintenance includes inspecting components, checking refrigerant, cleaning coils, testing electrical systems, and ensuring proper airflow.
Yes. Regular maintenance improves efficiency, reduces strain on the system, and helps prevent costly breakdowns.
Indoor Air Quality Questions & Answers
This often means the system is oversized, not running long enough, or lacks proper humidity control. Charlotte homes often benefit from dehumidifiers.
High-efficiency air filters, air purifiers, and proper duct sealing can significantly improve indoor air quality.
High-efficiency air filters, air purifiers, and proper duct sealing can significantly improve indoor air quality.
General HVAC Questions & Answers
The SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) measures the efficiency of your air conditioner or air-source heat pump. The SEER is the cooling output over a particular season divided by the total energy used in that same period. The higher the SEER, the greater the efficiency level of that cooling system.
Programmable thermostats are more accurate and efficient than thermostats that contain mercury. With a programmable thermostat, you can program settings in advance so that you can control the temperature at different times of the day. You will never have to worry about remembering to adjust the settings manually. By scheduling your programmable thermostat to a higher or lower temperature based on your weekday work hours, you can save money on energy bills without sacrificing comfort. A Bradham Comfort Services technician will gladly walk you through how to use your programmable thermostat.
Each split system cooling unit has a nominal SEER rating. For a higher rating your HVAC contractor can provide advice about an upgrade. The SEER rating of a system is based on the combination of equipment installed in the home. The outdoor equipment (heat pump or air conditioner), as well as the indoor equipment (evaporator coil and furnace, or air handler), play a vital role in the total rating.
