CALL TODAY 770.445.8923
How do I select a contractor?
Make sure they are licensed and insured and that the technicians are well trained and certified. It’s very important that they make you feel comfortable and that they have an excellent reputation with good references.
Can I just replace the outdoor unit on an older system to save money?
No. Replacing only the outdoor unit will sacrifice your comfort and lower the efficiency of the unit. In fact, you can lose up to 15% of the unit's efficiency! Even worse, your system may fail sooner than normal.
Where can I get information about financing programs?
DOBBS Heating and Air, Inc. has several financing programs available to fit most budgets. For more information, please call 770-445-8923.
What is the average life expectancy of equipment?
Most systems have a lifetime of 12 years or less. As your equipment gets older, its efficiency can decrease dramatically. You may notice that it gets noisier and needs repairs more often. If your system is over five years old, you should have a heating and cooling contractor check your system for maintenance or replacement. Preventative maintenance can prolong the life of the equipment.
Why should I purchase a service agreement?
Proper care of your equipment can save you real dollars on your utility bills. Some air conditioning and heating problems can double operating costs without reducing comfort. All leading manufacturers recommend regular maintenance to maintain peak performance. A service agreement will give you the piece of mind that your system is operating at optimum efficiency and performance.
Should I replace or repair my equipment?
Should I replace or repair my equipment?
There are five main questions that need to be considered when deciding to either replace or repair your heating and cooling system:
How old is your system? If your system is more than ten years old, it may be wiser to invest in new, higher efficiency equipment, which could cut your energy costs by up to 30% and MORE!
What is the overall condition of your system? If your system is in solid condition, it could be wiser to simply repair it. But if your system breaks down often, you should consider replacing it.
How often is your system operating? If your system has been used extensively, it may be time to replace it. Systems exposed to extreme weather normally do not last as long as those in mild condtions.
Are you planning to move soon? If you are moving in the next year or two and believe investing in a new system it will improve the value of your home, you should consider making the investment. If you plan to live in your current residence for many more years, it may also be wise to go ahead and invest in your future comfort.
How can I improve my indoor air quality?
With a high efficiency air cleaner, you can remove up to 99% of the pollen and spores that find their way into the home. There is also a great reduction in household dust, dirt, smoke, and other air pollutants. Your indoor air will become cleaner and fresher while reducing the allergens and dust that circulate throughout the house.
How do I increase the humidity in my home?
With a whole house humidifier, you can relieve the irritating discomfort of dry indoor air. The humidifier reduces itchy skin, scratchy throats, static electricity, and damage to your furnishings and woodwork. Since humid air feels warmer than dry air, you do not have to set the thermostat as high to feel the comfort you want. A lower thermostat setting will reduce the costs of your energy bill. A humidifier adds moisture and improves your comfort while increasing the energy efficiency of your indoor weather system. On the other hand, a central dehumidifier removes excess moisture and helps control the humidity inside your home.
With a high efficiency air cleaner, you can remove up to 99% of the pollen and spores that find their way into the home. There is also a great reduction in household dust, dirt, smoke, and other air pollutants. Your indoor air will become cleaner and fresher while reducing the allergens and dust that circulate throughout the house.
How do I increase the humidity in my home?
With a whole house humidifier, you can relieve the irritating discomfort of dry indoor air. The humidifier reduces itchy skin, scratchy throats, static electricity, and damage to your furnishings and woodwork. Since humid air feels warmer than dry air, you do not have to set the thermostat as high to feel the comfort you want. A lower thermostat setting will reduce the costs of your energy bill. A humidifier adds moisture and improves your comfort while increasing the energy efficiency of your indoor weather system. On the other hand, a central dehumidifier removes excess moisture and helps control the humidity inside your home.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is the measure of efficiency by which the cooling process of air conditioners and heat pumps is rated. The higher the SEER number, the greater the efficiency, which translates into greater energy savings. Today, U.S. regulatory agencies require all new models to have a 13.0 SEER rating or better. Most major manufacturers offer a line of air conditioners and heat pumps that range from 13.0 SEER to 21.0 SEER. Which to the home owner, Do you want to travel 13 miles per gallon or 19 miles per gallon.
Should I be concerned about Carbon Monoxide in my home?
Yes. Each year, carbon monoxide kills more than 300 Americans and sends nearly 5,000 more to emergency rooms for treatment, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Where does it come from?
When carbon-based fuels such as gas, oil, kerosene or wood burn, they produce gases. When fuel combustion or burning isn't complete, carbon monoxide enters the air. The only way of detecting carbon monoxide is with a carbon monoxide detector. DOBBS Heating and Air, Inc. recommends carbon monoxide detectors be installed in EVERY home!
Where does it come from?
When carbon-based fuels such as gas, oil, kerosene or wood burn, they produce gases. When fuel combustion or burning isn't complete, carbon monoxide enters the air. The only way of detecting carbon monoxide is with a carbon monoxide detector. DOBBS Heating and Air, Inc. recommends carbon monoxide detectors be installed in EVERY home!
How to keep heating costs down?
Draft-proof windows, doors, and other air leaks. Caulking and weather stripping are reasonably easy, so you may be able to save money by doing the job yourself. Keep your heating equipment operating efficiently. Clean or replace the filter in your forced air heating system every 30 to 90 days. Keep the heating system well tuned with periodic maintenance by a professional service.
