FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
As the top HVAC contractor in the area, we get a lot of questions about furnace repairs and air conditioning repairs. It’s good to know a few DIY quick fixes, but most often, HVAC repairs should be left to the professionals. HVAC equipment can be dangerous, regardless of whether it is gas or electric, and that’s why the state requires HVAC technicians to be licensed.
While the rates for our HVAC repairs, replacements and maintenance services are fair and reasonable, our advice is free! Below, we answer some common questions our HVAC technicians and operators get a lot. But if you don’t see your question here, feel free to call us. We can help you figure out if there’s something wrong with your HVAC system and if you need HVAC repair. We can also help you decide what type of unit to purchase if you discover you need HVAC replacement. We have done thousands of furnace installations and air conditioner installations throughout the area.
The best thing you can do as a homeowner for your HVAC equipment is to change your air filter regularly and arrange for annual HVAC maintenance services. This will keep your equipment running smoothly for many years longer than neglected equipment will.
Call our HVAC company at (301) 719-3315 anytime. We’re here for you.
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General Questions
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When should I call Presidential Heating & Air for repairs?
Sometimes it’s obvious when you need furnace repair or AC repair, but not always. If your gas or electric furnace will not turn on, or if it turns on but blows cool air, you should call our HVAC company right away. Loss of heat in the winter is considered an emergency.
Or what if your AC won’t turn on, or it blows warm air? This might not be as big of an emergency, but you will still need an HVAC technician to come out and investigate the problem.
But what if your furnace or AC is working, but making a strange noise? Or the equipment feels unusually warm? Or you notice a burning smell? The bottom line is, you should always call us when something is wrong with your furnace or AC. We’ll ask you questions to determine whether you need furnace or AC repair service.
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What should I do if my AC is leaking?
Your AC could be leaking for lots of different reasons. One is that the coils are dirty. Another is that the air filter is dirty. When either of these happens, the AC can freeze up and cause the drip pan to overflow. Another reason could be a faulty drip pan or a clogged drain line. None of these issues will be a problem for you if you get regular AC maintenance.
On the other hand, some AC units appear to be leaking when they are really dripping condensation on a very humid day.
If you notice your AC leaking, you should call us. It’s possible that it is not leaking water, but refrigerant, which is toxic. When you call, we’ll ask you some questions to determine the nature of the problem.
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How much does a service call cost?The cost of a service call can vary and is dependent on a number of conditions. These may include the nature of the call, how far our HVAC techs need to travel and how long it takes to diagnose and solve the problem. Our HVAC company has been in business almost 40 years and we are known for our competitive rates. Our customers can always ask for a free estimate before committing to any work that they want done.
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I need a new furnace. Should I get a gas furnace or an electric furnace?
There are pros and cons to both gas furnaces and electric furnaces. While gas furnaces are often cheaper to run, if you are looking to replace your furnace, the biggest consideration is the type of fuel you are currently using. You may pay less for heat with a gas furnace, but if your house is not connected to a gas line, arranging for that connection to be made likely would outweigh your savings.
That being said, there are instances in which it is advantageous to switch the type of fuel you use for your furnace. Talk to our HVAC company to help you make your choice.
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