Frequently Asked Questions

What does HVAC actually stand for?

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning - the whole system that heats, cools and moves air through a home or commercial building, including the duct network that decides where the warm or cool air goes.

How often should my air filter be checked?

Pilot recommends changing the filter about once a month, and checking more often in the heavy-use seasons of summer and winter. A dirty disposable filter should be replaced, not cleaned; some 1-inch high-efficiency pleated filters can last up to three months.

Where is my air filter, and how many do I have?

It depends on the system. Filters usually sit behind an access door in the return-air duct next to the furnace or indoor unit - in a utility closet, attic, crawl space, garage or basement - or behind a central filter grill in a wall or ceiling. Larger systems, and properties with more than one system, can have more than one filter, sometimes in different sizes.

Are all filters the same?

No - filters differ in size and in how much they catch. The MERV rating (minimum efficiency reporting value) runs from 1 to 20; higher catches more particles. Pilot advises sticking with the MERV rating your system's manufacturer recommends so the pressures the system was designed for are not thrown off.

How often should my systems be checked?

Most HVAC professionals recommend a heating check in the fall and an air conditioning check in the spring, so the system is ready before the harshest temperatures arrive. Like a car engine, a comfort system has mechanical, electrical and electronic parts that wear with time and use - routine maintenance by a qualified technician keeps it running effectively and efficiently.

Why was R22 refrigerant phased out, and what replaced it?

The EPA phased out R22 because its chemicals harm the ozone layer. Its replacement is R-410A, an environmentally friendlier refrigerant, so common leaks do not affect the ozone the same way.

How does an air conditioning system actually work?

At a basic level, the system absorbs heat energy and humidity from the indoor air and transfers them outside, then replaces the indoor air with cooler air passed through the refrigerated tubing of the system.