Expert Air Conditioning Installation & Replacement for New Braunfels & Surrounding Cities

What is the SEER2 Rating?

A “SEER2” rating, which stands for “Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2”, is a measurement of how efficiently an air conditioner or heat pump cools a home, essentially indicating how much cooling output is produced per unit of electricity used, with a higher SEER2 rating signifying greater energy efficiency; it’s the newer standard that replaced the original SEER rating and uses a more realistic testing procedure to reflect real-world conditions. 

Why do I need regular (or preventive) HVAC maintenance?

Your heating and cooling systems work incredibly hard to perform their functions. The constant stopping, starting and general operation can wear down any machine. Proper care and maintenance help to keep these systems in optimum condition and ward off malfunction. By scheduling regular maintenance, you can maximize the life of your heating and cooling units and guard against many common equipment failures. Preventive maintenance inspections performed in spring for your AC and fall for your heater can uncover leaks, rust, rot, soot, frayed wires and corroded electrical contacts. Regular maintenance will ensure maximum efficiency and prevent other problems. 

Which equipment requires regular (or preventive) maintenance?

All heating and cooling equipment require annual professional tuneup. Inspections on boilers and furnaces should include ductwork, pipes, dampers, valves, the chimney, registers, radiators, pumps, blowers, fuel lines and the oil tank. Heat pump and air conditioning unit inspections should also include an examination of the fan, compressor, indoor coils, outdoor coils, and refrigerant lines. 

What are the advantages of a programmable thermostat?

Programmable thermostats are more accurate and efficient than thermostats that contain mercury. With a programmable thermostat, you can program settings in advance so that you can control the temperature at different times of the day. You will never have to worry about remembering to adjust the settings manually. By scheduling your programmable thermostat to a higher or lower temperature based on your weekday work hours, you can save money on energy bills without sacrificing comfort. A Payne Air Conditioning & Heating technician will gladly walk you through how to use your programmable thermostat. 

What size HVAC equipment is right for my home?

Many factors affect the sizing and specifications of your system, including square footage, insulation, window surface and configuration, geographic location of your home, and duct sizing and arrangement. A technician from Payne Air Conditioning & Heating can perform an in-home load analysis to determine which equipment combinations will perfectly suit your home and your family’s needs. Depending on the construction of your home, one (1) ton of air conditioning can cool anywhere from 300 to 800 square feet. You can ensure that the system you purchase is the right size and not smaller or larger than you require, by having your heating and cooling needs evaluated by a licensed professional. 

What is the life expectancy of my unit?

HVAC systems last an average of 10 years. However, for your equipment, it may differ. Variables that affect life expectancy include the type of system, climate and the regularity of routine maintenance.