General Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
We address common inquiries about our products/services. If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact us directly for further assistance.
Indoor Air Quality
How serious is indoor air pollution?
Just as outdoor air pollution can damage your health, Indoor air pollution can have significant harmful effects; levels can be two to five times higher than outdoor levels.
When and why should I replace my air filters?
In order to keep your HVAC system running smoothly – clean or replace your filters once a month, or if there is construction in the house, as soon as the work is done as when they are dirty, there is higher incidence of restricting the airflow. Other factors such as pets, number of residents, or personal preference may warrant a more frequent change. Higher quality air filters are not required to be replaced as often.
What Is the Primary reason to replace the air filters?
The primary reason to replace air filters is to keep the inside of the furnace clean and prevent a fire. Although with the air tight houses being built these days, the filters also work well at keeping a home clean.
Service Contracts
Is there something I can do to get my heating system ready for winter?
Providing the proper care is given to your heating system, it can be very reliable at heating your home. At Electro Aide inc. we recommend an inspection twice a year, spring and fall, in order to maintain the utmost functioning of your furnace.
Is Preventative Maintenance important?
Manufacturers require your equipment to be inspected at least once a year in order to maintain the warranty on the system, this also ensures the system to be working at peak efficiency and reduce the risk of greater damage to the system or even a breakdown.
Sales
When is it time to replace my system?
When your system starts giving you more problems, and the problems are not cost effective to repair, then it is time to get a new system. New equipment is also more energy efficient, allowing you to save money on utility bills and pay off the system faster. Our sales men will be happy to evaluate your needs and recommend a system perfect for you and your lifestyle.
What should I look for when choosing new equipment?
Manufacturer – Choose a reputable company known for quality and durability
Model – Choose the right efficiency for your needs
Size – Choose the most appropriately sized unit for your home
Warranty – Make sure the warranty is clear in what it covers
Model – Choose the right efficiency for your needs
Size – Choose the most appropriately sized unit for your home
Warranty – Make sure the warranty is clear in what it covers
What is SEER?
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio – the higher the number the less energy consumed.
Geothermal
Is geothermal cooling & heating new?
No, the technology used for geothermal systems have been around for more than 50 years, although the efficiencies of the units and materials used has significantly improved in the more recent years.
How does the cost of heating with geothermal compare with other heating systems?
A geothermal system will cost less to operate than any other heating cooling system, in fact up to 25% less than a heat pump.
Humidifaction
How much humidity should I have in my home?
This depends, but generally the colder it is outside, the more humidity is required inside. Cold air is dry air, and as the temperature reduces, the moisture is drawn out of the house. The ideal range researched is between 40% and 60%.
Should I leave my humidifier on all year round?
Generally a humidifier should only require use during the heating season, as humidity levels increase with the warmer air.
Cooling
How long can I run my air conditioner at a time?
This depends on the size of the unit, the size of the house, and the temperature you are trying to obtain. If after a few hours of running the a/c the temperature demanded is not obtained, turn it off and call an Electro Aide technician.
How will I know when it's time to schedule a repair?
When your system takes too long to heat or cool, if it runs for a while without the temperature changing, if there is an abnormal smell or noise coming from it, you should call a technician to diagnose the problem.