FAQ
Answers to Questions About HVAC Repair & Replacement
HVAC Repair and Replacement Services in Annapolis, MD
As your local Annapolis, MD heating and air conditioning experts, Barstow & Sons knows you have questions about HVAC repairs and replacements. We’ve prepared answers to some of the questions we frequently receive from our customers. Feel free to contact us if you have any additional questions.
HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. It’s an acronym used to describe your entire air conditioning and heating system, including the ductwork, air filters, registers, and humidification controls.
Most HVAC units, air conditioners, and furnaces have a valid warranty if they’re less than five years old. Warranty information can be found on the outside label of your heating and cooling equipment. All warranties are different, but Barstow & Sons can easily check your warranty status for you if you give us a call.
Some HVAC units make various amounts of noise. Each unit has a different sound rating. You’ll generally find newer heating and air conditioning systems run quieter, though some noise can still be a factor.
Popping sounds are usually related to undersized duct design. If the amount of air passing through the duct is greater than the duct size, you will hear popping sounds. Improper duct layout can cause a variety of issues we can solve by renovating your ducts. Besides excessive noise, other ventilation and air quality problems to look for include:
- Higher energy consumption
- Shorter lifespan of the system
- Uneven heating throughout your home
- Damaged compressor
Barstow & Sons is located in Annapolis, MD, but we also serve other areas of Maryland, including Severna Park, Pasadena, and Arnold, MD. Contact our team for HVAC service in Anne Arundel County.
There are multiple reasons your HVAC system can freeze up throughout the year. It’s essential to keep your air filter clean and ensure airflow isn’t restricted. The most common causes of HVAC units freezing up include low refrigerant levels, a dirty evaporator coil, or a defective blower motor or relay. It’s also vital to work with the professionals at Barstow & Sons to figure out the source of the issue.
Zoning systems can deliver different temperatures to separate areas of your home. If you live in a larger home with multiple rooms and a variety of usages, different temperatures may be a necessity. Zoning systems can easily regulate temperatures across your home without compromising anyone’s comfort. Zoning systems can be easily installed during the new construction of a home in Annapolis, MD, or when you’re placing or modifying your HVAC system.
No. HVAC filters are available in a variety of sizes and qualities. We recommend using an air filter specified for use with your HVAC system. This will optimize performance across your system. Barstow & Sons can provide you with information on HEPA air filters, disposable and reusable air filters for your HVAC system.
Yes, indoor air can be hazardous to your health. In fact, indoor air can be even more hazardous than the air outdoors. Particles found in carpeting, upholstery, and furniture can emit fumes which pollute your home. Other items, such as cleaning agents, paint, and personal care products can negatively impact air quality. Removing harmful airborne particles and proper ventilation in your home can clear up your indoor air. Dust, mold, and other allergens can also contribute to unhealthy indoor air quality. Contact us today to find out how we can improve your indoor air quality in Severna Park, MD.
Carbon monoxide is clear and odorless, so the only way to detect it is to have carbon monoxide detectors in several locations around your home in Pasadena, MD. Carbon monoxide is very hazardous to your health, and monitoring it with detectors is the only way to know if your home has a leak. Never use grills or ovens for sources of heat. Be sure you allow your vehicle, lawnmower, or snowmobile to warm up outside of your home and not in your garage with the door closed.
Similar to an HVAC system, the right humidifier for your home is based on the size of your home and which rooms need humidifying. There are a wide range of humidifiers available at different price points. The team at Barstow & Sons will help you choose a humidifier to get the job done while staying within your budget.
Most air filters should be replaced every one to two months. For vacation homes, twice annually is usually suitable. Several factors determine when to change your air filters, including:
- Type of air filter
- Indoor air quality
- Pets in the home
- Number of occupants
- Level of air pollution
Your utility bills can skyrocket if you don’t have an efficient HVAC unit in your home in Arnold, MD. The best ways to maximize your HVAC system in your home are regular maintenance on your system, having a high-efficiency system, utilizing zoning methods, and programmable thermostats.
Just as you would with a vehicle or any other major appliance, it’s essential to have your HVAC system checked and maintained to ensure the unit is functioning correctly. Barstow & Sons offers a variety of HVAC maintenance packages to keep your unit working efficiently.