Frequently Asked Questions

Q. When should I replace a furnace or air conditioner?
A. You should take a serious look if your equipment is 15 years or older. You should also consider a furnace or air conditioner if you’ve been experiencing problems consistently each of the last several years.

Q. What does SEER mean?
A. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficient Rating. Over the past several years, the federal government has mandated that air conditioners move from a 10 to a 13 SEER rating.
Overall, the technology in heating and cooling systems continues to improve, much to the benefit of the homeowner or business owner.

Q. What type of safety issues should I expect with a furnace?
A. The newer the equipment, the better off you are as it relates to furnaces. The controls continue to improve. Still, we recommend that everyone has carbon monoxide protector/alarm.  It shouldn’t happen with today’s high efficiency furnaces, but you can never be too safe.

Q. How often should I have my furnace checked?
A. With a gas furnace, once every two years is fine. As the furnace gets older, you should check it every year. With an oil furnace, you should check it every year.

Q. How should I prepare my air conditioner for the winter?
A. You should cover the top with a piece of plywood to prevent anything from falling in and damaging the unit. We often see units that have been damaged by ice that falls off the roof. You will also want to turn off the power to the air conditioner by flipping the breaker. In the spring, make sure to flip the breaker on before you uncover and start the unit.

Q. What is R410A?
A. R410A is a coolant that is now used for new air conditioners and has been since earlier this decade. R410A is more efficient and more environmentally friendly than R22, known as Freon. Initially, there was a great deal of difference in cost, but the gap has narrowed significantly in recent years.

Q. What is your service area?
A. Our service area is about a 50-mile radius from La Crosse.