FAQ
Your HVAC Questions Answered
Common FAQs About Heating, Cooling, and Indoor Air Quality
We recommend professional maintenance twice a year-spring and fall.
We work with all major brands including Lennox, Trane, Carrier, Goodman, Rheem, Rinnai, Navien, and more.
Yes. We’re available for urgent repairs to restore comfort quickly.
It may indicate a mechanical or duct issue.
It varies based on the issue and the system. Many common repairs fall in the few hundred dollar range.
Could be due to duct issues or poor insulation.
Costs depend on your home size and unit type. Installations can range from a few thousand to over $12,000.
Change your air filter every 1-3 months, or monthly if you have pets. Regular professional maintenance also keeps it running smoothly.
Yes, with proper air filtration and UV purification.
- 1” filters: every 1-2 months
- 2-3” filters: every 3 months
- 4” filters: every 6 months
- 5-6” filters: every 9-12 months
Replace more often if you have pets or allergies.
BTU stands for British Thermal Unit. It measures how much heat your AC can remove per hour.
You can lower humidity levels by using a dehumidifier, running your HVAC system with proper ventilation, fixing leaks, and ensuring your home is well-insulated and sealed.
It adds moisture to every room, improving air comfort and preventing dry skin, static, and wood damage.
Between 30-60%. Winter air is often dry, so humidity control is especially important during colder months.
While not mandatory for all homes, inspections are often required during property sales or upgrades.
Clogged filters, duct leaks, or blower issues.
It can improve system efficiency and lowers energy use.
Regular maintenance, insulation, and efficient systems help reduce costs.
Strange noises, uneven heating, and high bills are common indicators.
Once a year. Annual maintenance helps extend its life, improve efficiency, and lower repair costs.
Replace your furnace filter every 1-3 months to maintain efficiency.
It may be due to a thermostat fan setting on “auto” instead of “on,” a clogged air filter reducing airflow, a malfunctioning pilot light, or a blocked drain line. If the issue doesn’t resolve, reach out to Bay Air Heating & Cooling for quick repairs.
That depends on your home’s size, insulation, and climate. We’ll help you find the perfect fit for comfort and efficiency.
SEER measures AC efficiency; the higher, the better.
MERV 8-12 is ideal for most residential systems.
Whole-home humidifiers use about 1.5 to 12 gallons daily, depending on the model and climate.
This usually means your ducts are undersized or poorly designed. It can cause airflow issues, energy waste, and system strain.
Have questions? Call 415-944-0114 to get professional HVAC answers in San Francisco and Marin.