frequent questions and answers

Q:  What does SEER mean?  What is the best SEER for me?
A:  SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating.  By law, manufacturers are required to test their AC/Heat Pump systems for their energy consumption.  SEER number is the number of BTU’s produced by each watt of electricity consumed.  The higher the SEER rating the less energy will be consumed.  Naturally, your initial investment (cost), for a higher SEER unit will be greater, but in many cases will pay for itself over time.  The equipment owner must decide if this payback period works for their needs.  For example:  If you only use your Central Florida home 6 months per year, your high SEER unit would take much longer to pay for itself than a full time resident.   
 
Q:  Should I get a heat pump or straight AC with electric heat?
A:  If you live between Winter Haven and Clewiston, Wauchula and Okeechobee, the Rheem straight AC System should do well for you.  A Heat Pump is a much larger initial investment, the air flow from the registers is not as warm as many would like, and for the small number of hours per year heat is needed, any difference would be minimal.   
 
Q:  Tell me about IAQ, (Indoor Air Quality).
A:  Most people spend 60-70% of their life inside their homes.  Unfortunately, this is where most of the pollutants, dust, bacteria, and chemical irritants reside, as well.  So you have a choice.  You can BE a FILTER, or BUY a FILTER.  Best path to clean indoor air is to have your air ducts professionally cleaned, and then, install a cleansing light or an air purifier.  This will clean and purify your indoor air nicely.  Your allergist should agree that clean air makes for better breathing. 
 
Q:  My thermostat is blank, should I replace it? 
A:  Maybe, but it may only need new batteries.  Change them and allow a few minutes and see if you’re back in business.
 
Q:  Is Air Conditioning Annual Maintenance, (AC Tune up), a good idea?
A:  Very good idea.  This will prolong the operational life of your cooling system, restore your unit to its peak operating efficiency, and is recommended strongly by Rheem, Ruud, Carrier, Frigidaire, Nordyne, Bryant, York, Comfortmaker, Lennox, and others.  You would never drive a new car 10 or even 20 thousand miles without an oil change and check-up would you?  Don’t damage your AC unit by hundreds of hours of working dirty.