Yes, HVAC filters should be changed regularly to ensure that the system is running efficiently and to help prolong the life of the unit. The frequency at which you should change your HVAC filters depends on the type of filter you have, the usage of your HVAC system, and the environment in which you live.

For standard fiberglass or pleated air filters, it's recommended to change them every 1-3 months. If you have pets, live in a dusty area, or run your HVAC system frequently, you may need to change them more often.

High-efficiency filters, such as HEPA filters, may need to be changed every 6-12 months, as they are more effective at trapping small particles and can get clogged more easily.

It's always a good idea to check your filter regularly and replace it when it's visibly dirty or when you notice a decrease in the airflow from your HVAC system. Call SBS-NC, LLC today for all of your HVAC needs!

Yes, you can upgrade the type of HVAC filter you use. There are different types of HVAC filters available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.

Fiberglass filters are the most common and least expensive type of filter. They are designed to remove large particles from the air, such as dust and lint.

Pleated filters are similar to fiberglass filters but have a higher efficiency rating. They have more pleats per inch and can remove smaller particles from the air, such as pollen and pet dander.

Electronic filters use an electronic charge to remove particles from the air. They are more efficient at removing small particles than fiberglass or pleated filters, but they can be more expensive.

HEPA filters are the most efficient type of filter. They can remove particles as small as 0.3 microns from the air, which makes them ideal for people with allergies or asthma.

Before upgrading the filters, you need to make sure that the filter you choose will fit your HVAC unit and that you are capable of handling the replacement by yourself. It's always recommended to get professional help if you're not sure. Upgrading the filters can increase the efficiency of your HVAC system and improve the air quality in your home. Call SBS-NC, LLC today for all of your HVAC needs! 

You should change your HVAC filters because they can become clogged with dirt, dust, and other debris over time. This can impede airflow and reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system, leading to higher energy bills and potential damage to the system. Additionally, dirty filters can circulate pollutants throughout your home, which can be harmful to your health. It is recommended to check and change your filters at least once every three months or as recommended by the manufacturer. Call SBS-NC, LLC today for all of your HVAC needs!

The frequency at which you should clean your HVAC coils depends on a variety of factors, including the type of system you have, the location of the coils, and the level of use. Generally speaking, it is recommended to have your coils cleaned at least once a year by a professional. Some HVAC experts recommend having the coils cleaned every six months if you live in an area with high levels of dust or other contaminants, or if you have pets or other factors that may contribute to a higher accumulation of dirt and debris. Additionally, if you notice your HVAC system is not running as efficiently as it should, it may be a sign that your coils need cleaning.

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It depends on the condition of your current HVAC unit and your specific needs. If your unit is old and inefficient, or if it requires frequent repairs, it may be more cost-effective to get a new unit. Additionally, if your home is not getting heated or cooled properly, or if your energy bills are too high, a new unit may be necessary. Ultimately, the best way to determine if you need a new HVAC unit is to have a professional assess your current unit and provide you with a recommendation

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Cleaning your HVAC system can help improve its energy efficiency. A dirty HVAC system has to work harder to heat or cool your home, which can cause it to use more energy. When the system is clean, it can operate more efficiently, which can lead to lower energy bills. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the HVAC system can also help to prolong the life of the unit.

It's recommended to get your HVAC system inspected and cleaned by a professional at least once a year. This will help ensure that the system is running efficiently and that there are no issues that could cause the system to fail.

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The amount of energy savings you can get from a new HVAC unit will depend on several factors, including the efficiency rating of the new unit, the size of your home, and how often you use your HVAC system.

A new HVAC unit with a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating will use less energy to heat and cool your home compared to an older unit with a lower SEER rating. For example, if you replace a 10 SEER unit with a 16 SEER unit, you could potentially save up to 60% on your energy bills.

The size of your home also plays a role in energy savings. An HVAC unit that is too small for your home will have to work harder to heat and cool the space, which can lead to higher energy bills. In contrast, a unit that is appropriately sized for your home will be more energy efficient.

It's also important to note that the energy savings you can achieve by upgrading to a new HVAC unit can vary depending on the location and climate of your home, as well as the usage habits of the home.

In general, a new HVAC unit can help you save on energy costs, and reduce your carbon footprint, but the exact savings will depend on many factors. A professional HVAC contractor can help you to determine the best option and give you a more specific estimate of energy savings for your situation.

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An HVAC blower motor is an electric motor that powers the blower fan in a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The blower fan is responsible for circulating the heated or cooled air through the ductwork and into the rooms of a home or building.

The blower motor is located in the indoor unit of the HVAC system, typically inside the air handler or furnace. It is connected to the blower fan and is controlled by the thermostat. When the thermostat calls for heat or cooling, the blower motor turns on and powers the blower fan to circulate the air through the ductwork.

Blower motors come in different types and sizes, depending on the type and capacity of the HVAC system. Some of the most common types include permanent split capacitor (PSC) motors, shaded pole motors, and electronically commutated motors (ECMs).

An HVAC blower motor is an important component of an HVAC system and it plays a key role in providing comfortable temperatures in your home or building. If the blower motor fails, the HVAC system will not be able to circulate the air, which can lead to poor indoor air quality, uneven temperatures, and higher energy bills.

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An HVAC compressor is a mechanical device that is responsible for compressing and circulating refrigerant in a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Compressors are typically located in the outdoor unit of a split-system HVAC system, which also includes the evaporator coil and condenser coil.

The compressor works by compressing the refrigerant gas and increasing its temperature and pressure. The hot, high-pressure refrigerant gas then flows through the condenser coil where it releases its heat to the outside air. The cooled, low-pressure refrigerant then flows through the evaporator coil, where it absorbs heat from the indoor air and cools the air that is circulated through the ductwork and into the rooms of a home or building.

HVAC compressors come in different types, such as reciprocating, scroll, and rotary. Reciprocating compressors are the most common type and are typically used in residential and small commercial HVAC systems. Scroll compressors are more efficient and tend to be used in larger commercial systems. Rotary compressors are also efficient and are often used in large commercial and industrial HVAC systems.

The HVAC compressor is a vital component of the HVAC system and it plays a key role in the cooling process. If the compressor fails, the HVAC system will not be able to cool the air, which can lead to poor indoor air quality, discomfort, and higher energy bills.

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A condensing fan motor is an electric motor that powers the fan in the condenser unit of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The condenser unit is typically located outside the building and it is the part of the HVAC system that releases the heat absorbed by the refrigerant inside the evaporator coil. The condenser fan motor is responsible for blowing air over the condenser coil and helping to dissipate the heat.

The condensing fan motor is typically located in the outdoor unit of a split-system HVAC system, near the condenser coil. It is connected to the fan blade and is controlled by the thermostat or the HVAC system's control board. When the thermostat calls for cooling, the condensing fan motor turns on and powers the fan to circulate air over the condenser coil.

Condensing fan motors come in different types and sizes, depending on the type and capacity of the HVAC system. Some of the most common types include permanent split capacitor (PSC) motors, shaded pole motors, and electronically commutated motors (ECMs).

The condensing fan motor is an important component of the HVAC system, and it plays a key role in the cooling process. If the motor fails, the HVAC system will not be able to dissipate the heat from the refrigerant, which can lead to poor cooling performance, higher energy bills, and even compressor failure.

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Whether or not you need to change your thermostat depends on the age and condition of your current thermostat, and whether it is meeting your needs.

If your thermostat is older, it may not be as energy efficient as newer models and could be costing you more money on your energy bills. If your thermostat is malfunctioning or not working properly, it may be time for a replacement.

Newer thermostats can offer a range of features and functionalities that older models may not have, such as:

• Wi-Fi connectivity, allows you to control your thermostat remotely via a smartphone or tablet.
• Smart features, like learning your preferences and adjusting the temperature accordingly.
• Multiple zones control, allowing you to control different areas of your home separately.
• Voice control with smart home assistants like Alexa, Google Home, or Siri.

If you are looking to save money on your energy bills, you may want to consider upgrading to a thermostat with a programmable or smart feature. These thermostats can be programmed to adjust the temperature when you are away or asleep, helping to reduce energy consumption.

Ultimately, the best way to determine if you need a new thermostat is to assess your current thermostat and see if it is meeting your needs and if there's a newer model that could better suit your needs. A professional HVAC contractor can help you to determine the best option and give you a more specific assessment of your situation.

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Yes, preventative maintenance can help to increase the longevity of your HVAC units. Regular maintenance and inspection of your HVAC system can help to identify and address potential issues before they become major problems. This can help to prolong the life of your HVAC units and prevent costly repairs or replacements.

During preventative maintenance, a professional HVAC contractor will inspect and clean your HVAC system, and check for any signs of wear or damage. They will also perform any necessary repairs or replacement of parts. Preventative maintenance can also improve the overall performance of your HVAC units, making them more energy efficient and helping to reduce your energy bills.

A regular maintenance schedule is recommended, and it may vary depending on the type of HVAC unit and the usage of the system. Some of the tasks that may be included in a preventative maintenance check are:

• Cleaning and inspecting the air filter
• Inspecting the refrigerant levels and checking for leaks
• Cleaning the condenser and evaporator coils
• Lubricating the moving parts
• Inspecting the ductwork
• Checking the thermostat and controls
• Inspecting the electrical connections and wiring

Preventative maintenance is a cost-effective way to increase the longevity of your HVAC units, improve performance and increase energy efficiency and ensure the health and comfort of your home.

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Preventative maintenance increases the longevity of your HVAC units because it allows for regular inspections and maintenance of the system, which can help to identify and address potential issues before they become major problems. By catching problems early, preventative maintenance can help to prevent costly repairs or replacements, and prolong the life of your HVAC units.

During preventative maintenance, a professional HVAC contractor will inspect and clean your HVAC system, and check for any signs of wear or damage. This can help to keep the system running at peak performance and prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris, which can cause the system to work harder and lead to breakdowns.

Regular maintenance can also help to improve the energy efficiency of your HVAC units. When the system is clean and in good working order, it can use less energy to heat or cool your home, which can help to reduce your energy bills.

In addition, preventative maintenance allows checking for refrigerant leaks, which can be harmful to the environment and to the health of the people living in the building and can also cause damage to the compressor.

By keeping your HVAC system in good working order, preventative maintenance can help to ensure that the system will last longer and perform more efficiently.

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An HVAC capacitor is a device that stores electrical energy and releases it as needed to help power the motors in a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. HVAC systems use two types of capacitors, the run capacitor, and the start capacitor.

The run capacitor is used to provide a steady supply of power to the HVAC compressor and fan motors. It helps the motors to run at a consistent speed and maintains the correct amount of torque.

The start capacitor is used to give an initial "boost" of power to the motors when they first start up. This helps the motors to overcome the initial resistance and get up to speed. Once the motors are running, the start capacitor is no longer needed and it is disconnected.

Capacitors are typically located inside the HVAC unit and they are connected to the motors by wires. They come in different sizes and types, such as round or oval shapes, and aluminum or plastic cases, depending on the type and capacity of the HVAC system.

HVAC capacitors can wear out over time and may need to be replaced. Signs that a capacitor may be failing include: the HVAC system not starting, the fan or compressor running slow or not at all, or the HVAC system shutting off prematurely. A professional HVAC contractor can help you to diagnose and replace a failing capacitor.

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An HVAC relay is an electrical switch that is used to control the operation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment. Relays are typically controlled by a thermostat or control board and are used to turn the power on and off to different components of the HVAC system.

HVAC relays are used to control the operation of the compressor, blower fan, and other motors in the system. They are typically located in the control panel of the HVAC unit and are connected to the thermostat or control board by wires.

When the thermostat or control board sends a signal to turn on the HVAC system, the relay closes the circuit and allows power to flow to the different components of the system. When the thermostat or control board sends a signal to turn off the HVAC system, the relay opens the circuit and interrupts the power flow.

HVAC relays can wear out over time and may need to be replaced. Signs that a relay may be failing include: the HVAC system not starting, the fan or compressor running slow or not at all, or the HVAC system shutting off prematurely. A professional HVAC contractor can help you to diagnose and replace a failing relay.

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Whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit depends on the age, condition, and efficiency of the unit, as well as the cost of the repairs and the potential energy savings from a new unit.

If your HVAC unit is relatively new and in good working condition, and the cost of repairs is relatively low, it may be more cost-effective to repair the unit. However, if your HVAC unit is old and inefficient, or if it requires frequent repairs, it may be more cost-effective to replace the unit with a new, more efficient one. Additionally, if your home is not getting heated or cooled properly, or if your energy bills are too high, a new unit may be necessary.

When considering whether to repair or replace your HVAC unit, it's important to take into account the age of the unit. Units that are more than 10 years old may be less energy efficient and may not be able to provide the same level of comfort as newer units. A newer unit will likely have a higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating and will use less energy to heat and cool your home, which can lead to lower energy bills.

It's also important to consider the cost of the repairs and the potential energy savings. If the cost of the repairs is close to or more than the cost of a new unit, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to replace the unit.

Ultimately, the best way to determine whether to repair or replace your HVAC unit is to have a professional assess your current unit and provide you with a recommendation. They will be able to take into account the age, condition, and efficiency of the unit, as well as the cost of repairs and potential energy savings to help you make an informed decision.

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SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a measure of the cooling efficiency of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. It is calculated by dividing the cooling output of the system (measured in British Thermal Units, or BTUs) by the energy consumption of the system (measured in watt-hours) over a typical cooling season.

A higher SEER rating indicates that the HVAC system is more energy efficient. The SEER rating is typically used to compare the efficiency of different HVAC units, with the minimum SEER rating required by the U.S. Department of Energy being 13. However, most central air conditioners available today have a SEER rating of 14 or above.

When shopping for a new HVAC unit, it's important to look for a unit with a high SEER rating. A unit with a higher SEER rating will use less energy to cool your home, which can lead to lower energy bills. Upgrading from an older, less efficient unit to a newer, higher SEER-rated unit can result in significant energy savings.

It's also important to note that the SEER rating alone does not give the whole picture of the system's efficiency, other factors like the size of the unit, the ductwork, and the usage habits of the home also play a role. A professional HVAC contractor can help you to determine the best option and give you a more specific estimate of energy savings for your situation

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An air conditioner can fail for a variety of reasons. Some common causes of air conditioning failure include:

• Lack of maintenance: Lack of regular maintenance can lead to a build-up of dirt and debris in the unit, which can cause the system to work harder and eventually lead to breakdowns.
• Refrigerant leaks: If the air conditioner is leaking refrigerant, it will not be able to cool the air effectively. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including a malfunctioning compressor or a damaged evaporator coil.
• Electrical issues: Air conditioners rely on electrical components to operate, such as the thermostat, relays, and capacitors. If any of these components fail, the air conditioner may not function properly.
• Blower motor failure: The blower motor is responsible for circulating air through the ductwork. If the motor fails, the air conditioner will not be able to circulate the air, which can lead to poor indoor air quality, uneven temperatures, and higher energy bills.
• Compressor failure: The compressor is responsible for compressing and circulating the refrigerant. If the compressor fails, the air conditioner will not be able to cool the air, which can lead to poor cooling performance, higher energy bills, and even compressor failure.
• Condenser fan motor failure: The condenser fan motor is responsible for blowing air over the condenser coil and helping to dissipate the heat. If the motor fails, the air conditioner will not be able to dissipate the heat from the refrigerant, which can lead to poor cooling performance, higher energy bills, and even compressor failure.

These are some of the common causes of air conditioner failure, but there can be other issues as well. It's important to have a professional HVAC contractor diagnose and repair any issues with your air conditioner to ensure that it is functioning properly and efficiently.

An HVAC system can leak for a variety of reasons. Some common causes of HVAC leaks include:

• Clogged or damaged condensate drain: The condensate drain is responsible for removing excess moisture from the system. If the drain is clogged or damaged, water can build up and eventually leak out of the system.
• Leaking ductwork: If the ductwork in your HVAC system is damaged or not properly sealed, it can allow air to escape, which can lead to leaks.
• Refrigerant leaks: Refrigerant is a crucial component of an HVAC system and leaks can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as a malfunctioning compressor or a damaged evaporator coil.
• Leaking water lines: If the water lines that supply the HVAC unit are damaged or have a leak, water can escape and cause damage to the unit and the surrounding area.
• Incorrectly installed HVAC unit: If the HVAC unit is not installed properly, it can lead to leaks due to improper sealing and connections.
• Age: As HVAC units age, the seals and connections may degrade, leading to leaks.

It's important to address any leaks in your HVAC system as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that the system is functioning properly and efficiently. A professional HVAC contractor can help to diagnose and repair any leaks in your system.

There are a few potential reasons why your HVAC coil may have started to leak:

• Age: As HVAC units age, the materials and seals used in the coils can degrade and become less effective, leading to leaks.
• Corrosion: If the coil is exposed to elements like moisture, salt, or chemicals, it can corrode and develop leaks.
• Physical damage: If the coil is physically damaged, such as from a collision or impact, it can develop leaks.
• Incorrect installation: If the coil is not installed properly, it can lead to leaks due to improper sealing and connections.
• Lack of maintenance: If the coil is not cleaned and maintained regularly, dirt and debris can accumulate on the surface and cause corrosion or damage to the coils.
• Manufacturing defect: In some cases, the coils may have a manufacturing defect that causes them to leak.

It's essential to address any leaks in your HVAC system as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that the system is functioning properly and efficiently. A professional HVAC contractor can help to diagnose and repair any leaks in your system.

Refrigerant is an essential component of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, and it plays a crucial role in the cooling process. The cost of refrigerant can be high for several reasons:

1. Limited supply: Refrigerants are typically produced in limited quantities, and their production can be affected by factors such as market demand, production capacity, and supply chain disruptions.
2. Environmental regulations: Some refrigerants, such as R-22 (also known as Freon) have been phased out due to their impact on the environment, and this has led to an increase in the cost of alternative refrigerants.
3. Handling and disposal: Refrigerants are typically handled and disposed of by certified professionals due to their environmental impact, and this adds to the cost of the refrigerant.
4. Taxes and tariffs: Refrigerants are subject to taxes and tariffs, which can increase the cost of the refrigerant.
5. Production costs: Refrigerants are typically produced using a variety of chemicals and compounds, and the cost of these raw materials can fluctuate based on market conditions.

The cost of refrigerant can be affected by a variety of factors and it can fluctuate over time. It's important to note that the cost of refrigerant is just one aspect of the total cost of operating and maintaining an HVAC system.