A: In most cases no.  Most duct cleaning systems are ineffective at best and can severely damage ductwork at worse.  In most cases, duct cleaning will make dust problems worse. Excessive dust is generally related to leaking supply and return ducts and undersized return airs.

2.   What is “SEER”?

A: Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating is a government  contrived formula that determines how quickly and how efficiently an air conditioner lowers the temperature in a specified area in a specified time frame.

3.  Should I buy based on SEER?

A: While it is nice to purchase a high SEER system, proper sizing of equipment and proper installation procedures are much more important. A properly sized and installed 13 SEER system can easily out perform an improperly sized and installed 21 SEER system. While SEER is an important value to know, it is not the most important factor in a climate like Houston, where humidity removal is paramount.

4.   Is one brand better than another?

A:  In most instances, no.  The installation procedures and the quality of the contractor are most important.  Each brand has it’s own short-comings and it’s on strong points.  Most equipment uses the same basic components, such as compressors, motors and electrical components.  Different products are more appropriate for different situations and are determined on a case-by-case basis.

5.  How many supply and returns should I have?

A:  Every house and every system is different. This is something that must be determined based on needs or design criteria.

6.  How do I know if a variable speed blower is right for me?

A: A variable speed blower is always beneficial in a humid climate. It will improve humidity control and indoor air quality significantly over a standard blower motor.

7.  What does it mean when my outside unit (condenser) has ice on it?

A: It means the system is either low on refrigerant, has low air flow, or a combination of these.

8.  What is the difference between R-22 and R-410A?

A:  Basically, R-22 is being phased out . R-410A is the refrigerant that is been chosen to replace R-22.  Each has it’s positive and negative aspects. R-22 was a very “forgiving” refrigerant as far as installation procedures are concerned. Meaning a poorly trained technician using minimal skills and knowledge could install equipment without too much detriment to the equipment longevity. R-410A is a very “unforgiving” refrigerant. It requires specific procedures during installation and service to provide efficient and long lasting service of the new equipment.

9.  Which is better – hard pipe duct work or flex duct?

A: Rigid duct work is always preferable because it has less resistance to air flow, but any duct work will work well if properly designed and installed. Unfortunately, most contractors do not take the time to design or properly install any type of duct work – especially flex.

10. What should I look for in a contractor?

A:  Licensed and insured, NATE certified technicians; but more basically, one that will take the time to ask questions, answer questions, address your concerns and offer solutions to solve your problems.

1.        DUCTWORK

2.        CONDENSING UNIT

3.        EVAPORATOR COIL

4.        HEATER/FURNACE

5.        SUPPLY REGISTER AND RETURN AIR GRILLS

6.        ATTIC INSULATION & VENTILATION

Also ask for a Mechanical inspection of your system, including but not limited to: 

ü        CHECK REFRIGERANT LEVELS TO MANUFACTURERS SPECIFICATIONS USING SUPERHEAT

 OR SUB-COOLING

ü        CHECK AMPERAGE DRAW PER UNIT DATA PLATE FOR COMPRESSOR

ü        CHECK AMPERAGE DRAW PER UNIT DATA PLATE FOR CONDENSER FAN MOTOR

ü        CHECK AMPERAGE DRAW PER UNIT DATA PLATE FOR INDOOR BLOWER MOTOR

ü        CHECK AND CLEAR DRAIN LINES

ü        CHECK ALL ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS

ü        CHECK AND FUNCTION ALL CONTROLS AND SAFETIES

ü        CHECK CONDITION OF HEAT EXCHANGER

ü        CHECK CONDITION OF EVAPORATOR COIL

ü        CHECK CONDITION OF CONDENSING COIL (WATER WASH IF NECESSARY)

ü        VISUALLY INSPECT ALL VISIBLE AND ACCESSIBLE SUPPLY DUCTWORK

ü        VISUALLY INSPECT RETURN AIR DUCTWORK AND CHASE

Finally,

?          CHECK SUPPLY DUCTWORK FOR AIR LEAKS

?          CHECK TOTAL SYSTEM STATIC PRESSURE

?          CHECK FOR LEAKAGE AROUND ALL ACCESSIBLE SUPPLY REGISTERS

?          DETERMINE SYSTEMS FUNCTIONING AIR FLOW CAPACITY

?          DETERMINE SYSTEMS FUNCTIONING BTU CAPACITY

?          DETERMINE SYSTEMS FUNCTIONING EFFICIENCY RATING

Get a written evaluation of your system. Get a written proposal of any suggested work to be done and always get a second opinion.