Frequently Asked Questions

Whether we are servicing your existing air conditioning system or we are installing a new air conditioning system, Mitchell AC & Heating wants you to be completely knowledgeable of both your system and the service we are providing. This page has been designed to answer many of the questions you may have. If you have any further questions or would like to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists, please feel free to contact Mitchell AC & Heating at 940-664-2228.

How often should I change the air filter?

Generally, your air filters should be replaced or cleaned every 30 days. Filters help to keep your duct system, air conditioning and heating system and indoor air much cleaner. A good time to clean your filters is when you get your monthly electric bill.

What temperature should I set my thermostat?

Because not everyone's comfort levels are the same, there is no certain temperature that will meet everyone's needs. The system is designed to maintain 70 degrees inside when the outside temperature is 45 degrees in the winter. It is also designed to maintain 75 degrees when it is 95 degrees outside. Most power providers suggest that you keep your thermostat between 76 - 78 degrees in able to conserve energy.

Should my thermostat be set to "auto" or "on"?

When the thermostat is set to "auto," the fan operates only when the temperature requires it. This is the most common setting. However, there are advantages to using the "on" setting. To begin with, the air in the house is constantly filtered through the unit’s air filter and second, the constant circulating air results in an even temperature throughout the house.

Will a new air conditioning system lower my utility bills?

Yes, your new heating and cooling system could lower your energy consumption. A 13 SEER is the minimum efficiency standard allowed by law. Depending on your current operating costs, higher efficiency systems could save you even more. Just contact Mitchell AC & Heating at 940-664-2228 and we will help to determine the best air conditioning system to suit your needs.

If the outdoor unit needs to be replaced, do I have to replace the indoor unit at the same time?

It is a good idea to replace the entire system when an air handler or condenser needs to be replaced. The efficiency rating is based on the entire system. To get the most benefit of a new, high efficient air conditioning and heating system, the entire system should be replaced altogether. In addition, some warranties will not cover a mixed system, or their coverage will be greatly reduced.

What is Energy Star®?

The ENERGY STAR is the government supported symbol for energy efficiency. It identifies homes and many products and services that meet strict guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). With an ENERGY STAR product, consumers can save energy and money without sacrificing performance.

What do rating numbers mean?

To help consumers make informed choices, the U.S. government requires an efficiency rating of all air conditioning and heating equipment. The rating is intended to reflect the percentage of energy used efficiently. A high rating means high efficiency. There are various names for the efficiency ratings of varying types of equipment. Air conditioning equipment is rated by the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating, or SEER. Heat pump equipment is rated by the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor, or HSPF. Gas furnaces are rated according to their Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, or AFUE.

What does "Going Green" mean for today's air conditioning system?

Effective in 2010 air conditioners that use R-22 refrigerant will no longer be manufactured. The new R-410a refrigerant will take its place. R-410a has zero ozone depletion so it is much better for the environment. Small quantities of R-22 will continue to be produced until 2020 for the purpose of servicing existing equipment. If you are shopping for an air conditioning and heating system it is recommended that you purchase the newer R-410a system.

What does insulation actually do for my home?

Installing blown insulation into your attic and other spaces within your home is a major contributing factor for resisting the flow of heat, so that your home is kept cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Heat is a form of energy and always seeks a cooler area. By reducing heat flow, a properly insulated home uses less energy for heating and cooling.

In addition to saving energy, blown-in insulation also acts as a sound absorber. When installed in walls and ceilings, it can reduce the transmission of sound from one room to another as well as from the outside. In today’s noise-laden environments, more and more homeowners are soundproofing their homes.

What is R-Value?

"R-Value" is another word for measurement of insulation. The greater the R-Value, the thicker the insulation. Basically, the insulation R-value is a measurement of heat resistance. It is the inverse of the U-value, so the higher the R-value, the better the insulation resists heat transfer.

Many factors can affect the R-value of insulation, including the type of insulation, and the age of the insulation. To determine the R-value of the insulation in your house, first determine the type of insulation present, whether that insulation is new or aged and the depth of the insulation in inches.

Why should I upgrade my attic insulation?

According to The Department of Energy heating and cooling loads consume as much as 50% and 70% of the energy used in your home. A significant portion of that energy consumption results from heat entering the home through the ceiling where if adequately insulated you could greatly reduce these effects. Upgrading your insulation WILL reduce your energy consumtion.

My air conditioning and heating system is not working. Is there anything I can do?

Here are some simple steps you can take before scheduling a service call:

Check breakers and or disconnect switches (The furnace or air handler will have one at the furnace and a dedicated breaker in the main panel of the house). The air conditioner may have two as well. Make sure that circuit breakers are ON or that fuses have not blown.

Make sure that the airflow is working properly. Make sure air filters are clean and that supply-air and return-air grilles are open and not obstructed.

Check the settings on your thermostat. If you want cooling, make sure the temperature control selector is set below room temperature and the SYSTEM switch is on the "COOL" and "AUTO" position. If you want heat, make sure the temperature control selector is set above room temperature and the SYSTEM switch is at "HEAT" and "AUTO." The FAN switch should be set at ON for continuous blower operation or "AUTO" if you want the blower to function only while the unit is operating.

If these steps do not work, our experts at Mitchell AC & Heating are just a phone call away. Contact us at 940-664-2228 and we will promptly be at your service.

We hope this page has been informational. If you have any further questions, please feel to contact Mitchell AC & Heating at 940-664-2228.

Frequently Asked Questions

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