Air Ideal

Service: Frequently Asked Questions

Having trouble? Check our Frequently Asked Questions before calling for service. You may find a simple solution to your problem that will get you back in service without a service call.

Q. What can I check myself before placing a service call?

A. If your unit is not operating at all, there are several common things that you can check or correct before placing a service call. If there has been a power failure due to weather conditions or electrical work it is best to make sure power conditions are back to normal. You can then first try to turn your thermostat to the off position for a few minutes then to the on position and select the heat or cool mode, making sure the temperature is set for the temperature you are trying to achieve. You can try this two times. If that does not work, check your circuit breaker panel to see if there is a tripped breaker. You can reset a breaker by turning it fully off and then back on. Then repeat the thermostat procedure above. Another common problem can be a disconnect switch near any component inside or outside that may be in the off position. Place all switches on and try again. If any of these suggestions don't work, call for service. Two tries for each step is more than enough. Repeated attempts to start a unit may cause more problems. Please stay clear of anything that looks unsafe such as bare wires or moving parts.

Q. What can I do if I hear the fan running but the unit is not cooling or heating?

A. This means the air moving device is operational and you can follow the procedures above to get the cooling or heating components to reset. If that does not help, give us a call.

Q. Why are my operating expenses (electric, gas, oil) so high?

A. There are several reasons for excessive power consumption. Extreme weather conditions will increase heating and cooling costs. However, in residential settings, the next highest power consumption is usually from refrigerators. Second storage refrigerators and chest freezers add to that load. In commercial settings there are many variables. In both Commercial & Residential settings, oversized and undersized equipment will waste energy and cause discomfort. Oversized systems will have frequent on/off cycles (aka short-cycling) that will use more power and result in swings of higher and lower temperatures. Undersized systems tend to run continuously and never reach a comfort level. Typically, when systems are not sized properly, auxiliary heaters or window air conditions are installed to mask the problem and, in turn, that makes matters worse by using more power. There is no substitute for a properly sized, energy efficient system. Additionally, newer energy efficient systems use less power than systems from the past. You will need a professional to determine what is best under any of these circumstances.

Q. Why should I have a Maintenance Agreement?

A. The best answer is peace of mind. Agreement customers partner with Air Ideal and get priority service when it is needed most. We have automatic scheduling and plan our seasonal visits before summer and winter to prepare for each. Maintained systems will last longer and use less power. If you have a business you know how costly comfort down time can be. A comfortable work place increases productivity and improves attendance. If you have a home, you know how important quality time is when you have time to enjoy it. Maintenance Agreements can be customized to meet your needs. Last minute fixes are never the best answer. Contact us for more information about HVAC coverage and peace of mind.

Q. What should I look for when choosing an HVAC contractor?

A. Experience; a contractor that has the necessary educational background and years of field experience can solve just about any problem. Availability; you should be able to reach your contractor with immediate or reasonable response time. Insurance; under the best of circumstances, things happen and your contractor should have adequate coverage that will protect you, the customer. Employee background checks should be mandatory. Air Ideal performs background and drug testing and goes further with key employee checks. Educational programs are important to keep up with our industry's technological advancements, innovations and improvements. Your contractor should have such a program.

Q. What is new and interesting in the world of HVAC?

A. With the current stimulus incentives, as well as manufacturer and utility rebates, this is a rare opportunity for long term investments and projected energy savings. Geothermal has a place for property and building owners and luxury homes. Check our website homepage for more details. Geothermal is not always the answer and the good news is that there are alternatives such as Variable Refrigerant Volume (VRV) systems that perform well and are very efficient. We have been looking at a highly efficient air cooled heat-pump system that shows promise in certain applications. On another note, we have also been installing wireless remote fully programmable thermostats, affordable steam humidifiers and many other option specific items. We can design systems, install them and service any product line.