HVAC

HVAC is an acronym for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. Your HVAC system, or home comfort system, has three main functions. “H,” heating your home in the cooler winter months. “V,” ventilating the air in your home. Your ventilation system filters the air in your home, recirculates it, and redistributes the temperature-controlled air in your home. “AC,” air conditioning – cooling your home in the hot summer season. Learn more about key HVAC terms.

There are two main options of HVAC systems in Hampton Roads. There are split systems (a furnace and air conditioner paired unit, or an air handler and heat pump paired unit), and all-in-one package units. Learn more about different HVAC systems. Contact Smith & Keene to schedule our certified technicians to guide you through the right HVAC system to most efficiently and effectively keep your home comfortable year-round.

Whether your home has an all-in-one package unit or a split system (of either a furnace and air conditioner matched unit, or an air handler and heat pump matched unit), the system will also include two additional key components. Your HVAC system will also include a thermostat and ventilation system. Learn more about key HVAC components.

There are several indicators that the time to replace your HVAC system is near. The age of your unit, airflow, and the ability to blow air that is the right temperature,  unusual noises, foul odors, leaks, and other maintenance issues can be indicators that your HVAC will need to be replaced soon. Learn more about 10 signs that it's time to replace your HVAC system.

Your furnace is an appliance with telltale signs indicating the tipping point to invest in a new unit is near. If your furnace is 15 years or older, your heat is inefficient, energy bills are exceedingly high, or making loud noises, then a new furnace may be on the horizon. Learn more about indicators that you may need a new furnace.

If you run into issues with your heating unit test these areas first: thermostat, power source, filters, condensation plans, and motor reset. For more details on testing a heater that is not functioning well read this blog. After troubleshooting, if you are still experiencing issues, it is time to contact the expert team of technicians at Smith & Keene.

R-22 refrigerant, commonly known as Freon, is a cooling agent that was used in many air conditioning units prior to 2010. Because it is not good for the environment, In 2010, production of R-22 refrigerant was required to be reduced by 75%, and the manufacturing of equipment containing R-22 was no longer allowed. Learn more about what to do if you have existing HVAC equipment that still use R-22.

The fall season in Hampton Roads is the ideal time to give your HVAC a once-over. Maintenance your HVAC system in the fall to help prevent costly repair bills in the harsher winter season. Clean your vents and replace filters, clean your outdoor condenser unit and condensation drain line, check and reprogram your thermostat. Schedule an annual maintenance check by a professional HVAC company to catch minor problems that could turn into major repairs. Learn more on how to maintain your HVAC before winter.

A Ductless Mitsubishi Mini Split System is a zoned heating and cooling system without the requirement of an air duct. These heating and cooling systems are made up of an outdoor pump unit and one or more indoor wall unit consoles. Many homeowners across Hampton Roads are moving to a Mini-Split System to heat and cool hard-to-control spaces in their homes.  Other homeowners are using Ductless Mini Split Systems to heat and cool their entire home using a zone model. Learn more about the benefits of a Ductless Mitsubishi Mini Split System by reading this blog.

When the summer heatwaves hit Hampton Roads, staying cool is the name of the game. Running your air conditioner full-blast all summer long can run up your utility bills quickly. There are several steps that you can take to keep your home cool and efficient in the midst of the summer heat.  Those include routine maintenance of your HVAC system, adjusting your thermostat, utilizing fans, insulating, and avoid overheating appliances. Read to learn more about these five tips to improve your home’s energy efficiency while enhancing the cooling effects of your air conditioner.