Frequently Asked Questions
- What is NATE certification, and why is it important?
- I found a good deal online. Should I purchase from an online sales site?
- What SEER?
- What is AFUE?
- What do refrigerant ratings mean?
- What is the difference between a split system and a package unit?
- Why should I use a modulating or multi-stage furnace?
- I want to save the most money on my heating/cooling system; what’s the most efficient choice in North Carolina?
- What do the warranties of your preferred systems include?
What is NATE certification, and why is it important?
NATE-certified technicians are skilled professionals who have proven their knowledge in the HVACR industry by passing specialized NATE certification tests that ensure he/she knows how to provide you with:
- Lower utility bills through proper installation and maintenance
- Fewer callbacks and warranty returns
- Fast, efficient service
- Job done right the first time
- Equipment that runs at peak efficiency
- Advice & knowledge of skilled, certified technician
- Greater peace of mind
From air conditioning and heating installer certifications to residential and light commercial maintenance, NATE techs are the best in the business.
I found a good deal online. Should I purchase from an online sales site?
ONLINE BUYER BEWARE!! HVAC products are unlike most products for sale on the Internet. A trained professional should always review the unique requirements of your structure to ensure proper equipment selection and safe, efficient installation. Even the most skilled do-it-yourselfers should not attempt to install HVAC products. There are many online sales companies that engage in the dangerous and deceptive practice of selling HVAC equipment directly to consumers, bypassing the expertise of trained, professional contractors. These unscrupulous companies advertise savings by cutting out the middle man. Even if you purchase a system online and have a contractor install it, you will lose any warranty you would have gotten had you simply just started with the contractor to begin with. There is no short cut to a safe, quality, professional HVAC installation that conforms to local building codes, meets manufacturer specifications, performs at peak efficiency, and operates safely!
What is SEER?
There are special names for the efficiency ratings of various types of equipment. Air conditioning equipment is rated by the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating, or SEER. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit.
High-efficiency units tend to cost more; however, since operating costs are lower, the payback period may be shorter than you realize. Also, units with a 15 SEER rating or higher are eligible for the tax credits (links to Tax Credits page) in place until 2010. A high SEER/HSPF heat pump also can add value to your home, which is important to today’s energy-conscious home buyers.
What is AFUE?
There are special names for the efficiency ratings of various types of equipment. Gas furnaces are rated according to their Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, or AFUE. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the unit.
What do refrigerant ratings mean?
R-22 is an ozone-depleting coolant that’s been used for a long time in standard systems. The government has decided that the installation and production of R-22 systems will be phased out by the end of 2009; therefore, the R-22 product is quickly becoming scarcer and more expensive. Any system more than a few years old most likely has an R-22 system! If you have one of these, it means that repairs on these systems will be skyrocketing in the near future.
410-A is not an ozone-depleting refrigerant, and is the “new standard”; AirStar only offers 410-A systems for the benefit of our customers.
What is the difference between a split system and a package unit?
A split system uses indoor and outdoor components to provide a complete home comfort system. A package unit or self-contained unit requires no external coils, air handlers, or heating units.
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Why should I use a modulating or multi-stage furnace?
At best, furnaces run at an approximately 80% efficiency; to get them to that level, they need to be as efficient as possible.
With a modulating furnace, it self-adjusts to run between 40-100%; thus, you only use as much power as you need to satisfy your thermostat.
A multi-stage/2-stage furnace is a lower-cost alternative similar to a modulating furnace, where it is set at 70% and 100%, thus not using full power if not needed to address the thermostat’s needs.
I want to save the most money on my heating/cooling system; what’s the most efficient choice in North Carolina?
Due to the warm climate of our area, AirStar recommends a fully electric system. However, we will gladly discuss, install, and/or work with your individual options.
What do the warranties of your preferred systems include?
Our preferred Rheem systems have an outstanding warranty!
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