FAQs

1. Should I clean my duct work?

Ans: In most cases no. Most duct cleaning systems are ineffective at best and can severely damage ductwork at worse. In most cases, duct cleaning will make dust problems worse. Excessive dust is generally related to leaking supply and return ducts and undersized return airs.

2. My new air conditioner seems to only run for short periods of time and then shuts off. Is this normal?

Ans: It sounds like the air conditioner is oversized. Again, the first step in installing a new air conditioner is to run proper heat calculations on the home to determine the proper size. An oversized unit will cycle on and off frequently, wasting electricity and causing wear and tear on the machine itself. The other problem is that it never runs long enough to dehumidify the air inside the house. This causes an uncomfortable feeling in the house. It seems cold and clammy like when you are in a cave.

3. After I have a new air conditioner installed, will it require any maintenance?

Ans: Yes. Keeping the system clean is the name of the game. As the evaporator and condenser coils begin to get dirty the efficiency of the system plummets, your energy bill climbs, and your comfort level drops. Regular tune ups also extend equipment life and help to prevent mechanical break downs. We offer our Planned Service Agreement to provide the service that you will require.

4. I thought pollution was outside. Why should I be worried about my air indoors?

Ans: We spend 90% of our time every day indoors. Plus, today’s efficient, airtight homes are excellent at conserving energy, but that also makes them better at trapping potentially irritating particles inside the home. With the rising number of people who suffer from allergies and asthma, indoor air quality has become more and more important to our general health and well-being.

5. What is “SEER”?

Ans: Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating is a government contrived formula that determines how quickly and how efficiently an air conditioner lowers the temperature in a specified area in a specified time frame.

6. Should I buy based on SEER?

Ans: While it is nice to purchase a high SEER system, proper sizing of equipment and proper installation procedures are much more important. A properly sized and installed 13 SEER system can easily out perform an improperly sized and installed 21 SEER system. While SEER is an important value to know, it is not the most important factor in a climate like Houston, where humidity removal is paramount.

7. Is one brand better than another?

Ans: In most instances, no. The installation procedures and the quality of the contractor are most important. Each brand has it’s own short-comings and it’s on strong points. Most equipment uses the same basic components, such as compressors, motors and electrical components. Different products are more appropriate for different situations and are determined on a case-by-case basis.

8. How many supply and returns should I have?

Ans: Every house and every system is different. This is something that must be determined based on needs or design criteria.

9. How do I know if a variable speed blower is right for me?

Ans: A variable speed blower is always beneficial in a humid climate. It will improve humidity control and indoor air quality significantly over a standard blower motor.

10. What does it mean when my outside unit (condenser) has ice on it?

Ans: It means the system is either low on refrigerant, has low air flow, or a combination of these.

11. What is the difference between R-22 and R-410A?

Ans: Basically, R-22 is being phased out . R-410A is the refrigerant that is been chosen to replace R-22. Each has it’s positive and negative aspects. R-22 was a very “forgiving” refrigerant as far as installation procedures are concerned. Meaning a poorly trained technician using minimal skills and knowledge could install equipment without too much detriment to the equipment longevity. R-410A is a very “unforgiving” refrigerant. It requires specific procedures during installation and service to provide efficient and long lasting service of the new equipment.

12. Which is better – hard pipe duct work or flex duct?

Ans: Rigid duct work is always preferable because it has less resistance to air flow, but any duct work will work well if properly designed and installed. Unfortunately, most contractors do not take the time to design or properly install any type of duct work – especially flex.

13. What should I look for in a contractor?

Ans: Licensed and insured, factory certified technicians; but more basically, one that will take the time to ask questions, answer questions, address your concerns and offer solutions to solve your problems.

Current Promotions

Heating System Tune Up Promo

$10 off any heating system tune up from now to March 31, 2014.

American Air Systems Inc. extends the Manufactures warranty with 1 year parts & labor for Installations, unless otherwise noted.

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What Our Customers Saying

We would highly recommend American Air Systems because we like working with Alex DeWees. He promptly reponds to calls. Takes the time to explain the services he is providing and completes the job in a very timely manner. When it comes to air systems "Choose American Air Systems". – Lindia Siragusa, The Yankee Clipper Inn, North Conway, NH