Our Most Common HVAC FAQs

Common HVAC FAQs

Your home’s HVAC unit is a complex system built to weather mother nature’s many elements and keep you and your loved ones in the comfort zone 24/7. At Carolina Comfort Air, we know there are many questions you have as homeowners about your heating and cooling needs. We’re here to answer the most frequently asked HVAC questions. 

  1. How often should I service my HVAC system? 

Servicing your HVAC system can reveal leaks, rust or wear and tear, so scheduling regular preventive maintenance is the best way to ensure peak performance year round. It is recommended for homeowners to have their heating and cooling systems serviced 2X a year, bothin the spring and fall. Schedule your preventive maintenance with us! 

  1. What type of air filters should I use and how often should I replace them?

For optimal efficiency and filtration, we recommend that you replace your disposable filters at least once a month. Standard filters work to keep your system and its ductwork clean, but they can only do so much to improve indoor air quality. A media air cleaner does a much better job of trapping small particles. It rests between the main return duct and the blower cabinet and will improve dust and particle removal up to 7X more effectively than a standard filter. 

Upgrading to a pleated media filter will remove everything from dust to airborne viruses from the filtered air! 

  1. When should I replace my home’s heating and cooling system?

Understanding the tell-tale signs that your HVAC system has reached the end of its life and may soon need replacement is vital as a homeowner. The sooner you acknowledge these warning signs, the more time you have to budget and explore the best financing options. Frequent repairs, the use of R-22 refrigerant, and well aged equipment are among many indicators that your HVAC system may need to be replaced soon.

  1. What size HVAC system do I need? 

To ensure your new AC system is the right fit for your home and comfort needs, Carolina Comfort Air performs a detailed load calculation to determine the capacity of the equipment needed, as well as the distribution of air for each room. During your free in-home consultation, our consultants will ask a series of questions to further understand your current comfort issues. Do you have hot or cold spots in your home? High humidity? Our approach to professionalism is valuing our customers as partners. 

  1. Is a bigger HVAC system better?

Size does matter when it comes to choosing an HVAC system for your home, and bigger doesn’t always mean better. Right-sizing your system is all about choosing an HVAC system that is properly sized for your home after taking into account the size and configuration of your house, window locations, insulation levels of its thermal envelope, climate, number of occupants, and several other factors. Special calculations need to be conducted to determine which size system would best meet the heating and cooling needs of your home.

  1. How much does a new Trane HVAC system cost?

During your free in-home consultation, a Carolina Comfort Air consultant will complete a home calculation and evaluation of your needs. Based on those findings, we are able to recommend options to you as the homeowner to choose from ranging in cost and efficiency. Your installation estimate will include the cost for the new unit as well as the cost of labor and any needed parts, that way you are able to receive other quotes to compare. We always recommend that homeowners ask HVAC contractors about their installation process, as many do not have as detailed and comprehensive checklists as Carolina Comfort Air.  

At Carolina Comfort Air, we exclusively work with the best – and there’s nothing better than a Trane system. As Trane Comfort Specialists™, we are proud to carry America’s most reliable and trusted HVAC brand. Tested, designed, and built to withstand the toughest conditions, Trane systems are truly top of the line. Trane AC systems are the best value, most efficient, and even have the quietest sound rating in the industry.

  1. What are the advantages of a programmable thermostat?

Programmable thermostats are more accurate and efficient than thermostats that contain mercury. A properly programmed thermostat can save up to 20% on energy costs! 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 Carolina Comfort Air technician will gladly walk you through how to use your programmable thermostat.

Not only do programmable thermostats save homeowners money, but they also allow you to easily manage your indoor home temperature with smart controls. Remotely raise and lower temperatures using your smartphone, receive system diagnostics, and stay up to date with maintenance alerts. 

  1. Is HVAC Financing available?

Absolutley! As a top 5 national Trane dealer, we are able to offer the very best AC replacement financing and rebate offers for our customers. 

With affordable monthly payments, a fast application process, online account management, and special term promotions, replacing your home’s air conditioning system will be less stressful. Our comfort consultants will review financing options with you during your free in-home consultation.

We also inform homeowners about additional cost savings through Duke Energy’s energy-efficient rebates for residential electric customers. Homeowners are eligible to save up to $450!


Have a question we didn’t answer? Give us a call at 919-879-2106 and our Trane Comfort Specialists will cover any questions or concerns you may have about your home’s heating and cooling system!

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