Call us:  480.451.7022

Residential & Commercial AZ ROC #188213, 189285
> View Customer References

Residential     :    Commercial     :    Service Plans   :     Request Service   :    Products     :    FAQ    :     Contact Us     :     Home

Q: How do I know is my system is sized properly?

A: Air conditioning is about comfort, and to get the best comfort it is critical to have the correct size A/C system. The most common sizing mistake is over-sizing. Bigger is not always better. In Phoenix, the design temperature is 107 Degrees, yet we spend only 159 hours over that temperature (7% of total operating time). APS has concluded that 53% of the area homes have oversized systems. An over sized unit costs more to install and run (30% more) and loses temperature control. To make sure you get the right size A/C it’s important to have a qualified contractor calculate the cooling requirements of your home. The size, construction and sun exposure of your home are just some of the factors used to determine your cooling needs. LJM Air’s expert technicians have the skills to conduct a complete analysis of your comfort needs and recommend a system that meets the requirements.

Q: What is a SEER?

A: SEER stands for Seasonal-Energy-Efficiency-Rating, analogous to Miles-Per-Gallon (MPG) on an automobile. Manufactures are required to test all systems according to a government standard. This allows consumers to compare systems with comparable energy efficiency ratings. Use caution, a comparable SEER rating does not mean comparable reliability. Also the SEER rating is for new equipment. TRANE is the only system that regains the majority, if not all, of the performance when properly maintained. 

Q: How often should I replace my filters?

A: Filters should be changed once a month. A dirty filter reduces the system efficiency making it more expensive to cool or heat your home. A great trick to improve your filters efficiency is to spray the filter with a low cost furniture polish. The polish chemicals help the filter attract and hold smaller particles.

Q: How often should I have my system serviced?

A: You should have your system checked twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. Regular service is the key to catching and fixing small problems before they cascade into larger more costly repairs. Also, your home or manufacture warranty requires annual system maintenance.

Q: Do I need a programmable thermostat?

A: Programmable thermostats are a great way to save money. If you have a consistent routine and leave the house regularly, then it will pay to have a programmable thermostat. Also, if you are on an APS or SRP time of use plan, a thermostat can also help you reduce your costs during the higher energy cost periods.

Q: My outside A/C pipe has water dripping of it, what should I do?

A: Nothing. The pipe that returns refrigerant to your system should be cool. During the monsoon season, the higher humidity levels condense out on the pipe causing it to “sweat.” However, if you ever see your outside pipe iced over, turn the system off and call for service immediately.

Q: My house A/C has a vent pipe with water dripping out of it, where is the water coming from?

A: Your indoor coil is cold causing the internal air moisture to be condensed out on the coil. The water is routed from the system to an external drain or to an internal drain. Your system should also have a secondary condensate pan, which acts as a safety in the event the main drain vent becomes plugged. If you have any water leakage through a ceiling or floor, turn the system off but leave the fan ON and call for service immediately.

Q: How does a heat pump work?

A: A heat pump in cooling acts like an air conditioner in cooling. However, a heat pump can also supply heat to the home during the winter months. The heat pump has a valve that reverses the refrigerant flow. The outside system compresses the refrigerant. During the compression process the refrigerant heats up. This heat is needed inside the house during winter months and the reversing valve directs that hot refrigerant inside the house where it is used to heat the home.

Q: What is a split system?

A: A split system is comprised of two units, a condenser located outside the house and an air handler located in a closet, garage or attic space.
 
Have a question about your A/C or heating system? We can answer it.  Give us a call - 480.451.7022, or email us at contact@ljmair.com.