HVAC FAQ
Simple, practical answers from Weakland’s Heating & Air—so you can stay comfortable and avoid preventable breakdowns.
If you’ve ever wondered what your HVAC system should sound like, how often you really need maintenance, or what those efficiency ratings mean, you’re in the right place.
We’ve been servicing the Reno–Sparks and surrounding areas since 1991, and we’ve learned that most HVAC problems don’t start as “big” problems. They start as small restrictions, neglected filters, or early warning signs that are easy to miss—until the system is working overtime. Our goal is complete customer satisfaction through consistent, top quality service, and a big part of that is helping you understand the basics.
What does HVAC stand for?
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning.
That’s the whole comfort system: the equipment that heats and cools, the ventilation that moves and refreshes air, and the ductwork and controls that tie everything together.
Protect airflow and performance
What regular maintenance do heating and air conditioning systems need?
The most important theme in HVAC maintenance is unrestricted airflow.
Dust, dirt, and debris are an HVAC system’s worst enemies. When airflow is restricted—whether at the filter, the coil, or around an outdoor unit—your system has to work harder to do the same job. That extra strain can reduce comfort, efficiency, and reliability.
Here are the basics we recommend:
- Keep filters clean and changed regularly. How often depends on the type of filter you have.
- Keep heat exchangers and coils free of restrictions. (This is a big one for performance.)
- Schedule professional checkups twice a year. We recommend a spring and autumn tune-up so your system is ready before the heavy-use seasons.
Staying on top of filter changes alone can eliminate many of the most common problems that need fixing—and it can significantly reduce the likelihood of a serious breakdown.
How often should I have maintenance done on my air conditioner?
We recommend maintenance twice a year—with spring and autumn being the best times.
This helps keep the system operating at maximum efficiency and gives us the opportunity to spot issues that could turn into problems in the near future.
Is there anything I should check prior to calling for service?
Yes—before you call, a few quick checks can sometimes save you time (and get comfort back faster):
- Make sure the air conditioner or furnace is plugged in.
- Check that breakers and disconnects are turned on.
- Confirm the thermostat is set correctly.
- Write down any strange noises or smells you’ve noticed.
If everything looks right and it’s still not heating or cooling correctly, it’s time to bring in a professional.
How do I know if my system is working properly?
A system can be “running” and still not be working properly. Watch for these common signs:
- Strange noises that weren’t there before
- Uneven comfort (some rooms too hot/cold)
- It’s taking longer than usual to cool down or heat up
- Utility bills rising for no apparent reason
If you’re seeing any of the above, it’s worth getting it checked before a small issue becomes a major repair.
What can I do around my outdoor unit to help it run better?
A little outdoor housekeeping can make a real difference—especially for ground-mounted units.
- Keep ground-mounted outdoor units clear of debris, clutter, and weeds. These reduce airflow to the unit.
- Use caution with weed trimmers around the unit to avoid damaging control wiring.
- Keep pets away from the unit. Pet urine can cause expensive damage.
Good airflow around the outdoor unit supports efficiency and helps the system reject heat properly.
What do SEER and AFUE mean?
Efficiency ratings can feel like alphabet soup. Here are the two you’ll hear most often:
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio)
SEER tells you the amount of cooling your system will deliver per dollar spent on electricity.
The SEER rating of any unit can range anywhere from 13 to 17. In general, the higher the SEER, the more efficient the system will be—and the less it will cost in the long run to own and operate.
AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency)
AFUE is a measurement of the percent of heat produced by a furnace for every dollar of fuel consumed.
The higher the AFUE rating, the lower the fuel costs. All furnaces manufactured today must meet at least 78%. Older furnaces (10–15 years or older) may fall below this minimum.
What types of HVAC work do you do?
We specialize in residential and light commercial heating, air conditioning, and ventilation. That includes:
- Building systems from the ground up
- Retrofits
- Repairs and service
- Preventative maintenance for all HVAC equipment
If you’re not sure what your home or building needs, tell us what you’re experiencing—uneven temperatures, odd noises, rising bills, or comfort that’s changed—and we’ll help you take the next step.
Still have a question? Let’s talk.
This FAQ covers the questions we hear the most—but every home and building is a little different. If you’d like help figuring out what’s going on (or how to prevent problems before the next season hits), reach out to Weakland’s Heating & Air.