Do you need HVAC information or troubleshooting tips to help care for your heating and cooling systems? Cedar Falls Heating & Air Conditioning has compiled our most frequently asked questions regarding HVAC repair information. Feel free to contact us if you have any additional questions or are in need of immediate service.

Cooling:

1. Do I need to replace my furnace filter during the cooling season?

Yes. The furnace filter should be inspected/replaced monthly/quarterly depending on the size of your filter.  If members of your family have spring or summer allergies, there are filters that can be purchased to help remove pollen and other allergens from being pulled into the house via the cooling system. 

2. How often should I have my A/C unit inspected?

Cedar Falls Heating & Air Conditioning recommends having your A/C unit inspected by a qualified service technician every 1-2 years.

3. Should I cover or wrap my A/C condenser during the winter to prevent corrosion?

No. Covering or wrapping the condensing unit only provides a warm place for mice to make a nest and chew on wires in the unit.

4. What can I do myself to prevent my A/C condenser from failing?

At the beginning of the cooling season, you can take a garden hose and wash the outside condensing unit down to help eliminate the possibility of seeds from trees, grass clippings, and other debris from getting caught in the unit. These things can prevent the unit from operating efficiently.

5. What do I check first when my air conditioner isn’t working?

You should first check to see if your breaker is on for your air conditioner and your furnace. Also, replace the batteries in your thermostat. 

Heating:

1. How do I know if my filter is inserted correctly?

Filters have arrows on them to illustrate the air flowing from one side to the other. A properly installed air filter should have the arrows pointing in toward the furnace.

2. How often should I have my furnace inspected?

Cedar Falls Heating recommends having your furnace inspected once a year. It is a simple, low-cost way to ensure the comfort and safety of your home throughout the winter.

3. How often should I inspect/replace my furnace filter?

Filters should be inspected/replaced every month/quarterly depending on the size of your filter. It’s important to remember that dirty air filters are the most common cause of inadequate heating performance.

4. My filter is clean, but there is still noticeably less than normal air flow.

Check the intake pipe located outside of the house. There may be ice or a nest restricting the airflow from outside the house into the furnace. Do your best to clear this pipe from any obstructions.

5. What do I check if my furnace isn’t coming on?

You should first check to see if your breaker is on. Also, replace the batteries in your thermostat.