FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to some of our customers’ most frequently asked questions.
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What is a Heat Pump?
A residential air-source heat pump system offers an energy-efficient alternative to other HVAC systems by moving heat in or out of your home instead of creating it. A heat pump consists of an outdoor unit that circulates refrigerant and an indoor air handler that pumps conditioned air directly into your living space or through your home’s ductwork.
During the summer, a heat pump works similarly to your refrigerator and extracts the heat found inside and pumps it outside to keep your living spaces comfortable. Heat pumps can efficiently bring heat inside after extracting it from the outside air during the heating season.
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What is HVAC?
HVAC stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning, and refers to the systems within your commercial building or residential home that heat and cool (condition) the space.
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Why should I replace my AC and heating systems?
If your system is more than 10 years old, it is likely inefficient or at least in need of repair. Most new systems are up to 60 percent more efficient than those commonly installed a decade ago. Despite the upfront costs, it can be less expensive over time to install a new system than paying for ongoing maintenance and high monthly utility bills. With regular heating and cooling maintenance and service, you can expect a new HVAC system to last 15 years to 20 years.
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What is involved in installing a new HVAC system?
In a new home, you may need to install ductwork, which is usually metal or fiberglass, insulation, refrigerant piping, electrical service and wiring, thermostats, registers and grills and more. Ductwork is important because it takes care of your home’s air supply and return. The supply ductwork attaches to the outflow and delivers air to each zone in your home. Return ductwork draws air out to be heated or cooled, and usually requires an air filter.
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What are the benefits of home electrification?
Home electrification not only helps reduce carbon emissions from your home and meets California’s zero net energy guidelines, it also provides several benefits to your home comfort, health, and efficiency:
- Energy and cost savings: Today’s all-electric appliances are known for their superior efficiency and many homeowners notice a significant reduction in their year-round energy bills after electrifying their homes.
- Indoor air quality benefits: Electric HVAC systems offer innovative ventilation and air purification capabilities that can help reduce pollutants in your home, like moisture, allergens, VOCs, and more.
- Improved home safety: By eliminating fossil fuels from your home, like propane and gas, you’re also eliminating your risk of dangerous carbon monoxide leaks.
- Renewable energy integration: One of the great things about upgrading your home to run exclusively on electricity is that you can generate your own for free when you also install solar panels. The Bay Area is ideal for solar energy production, making it a smart choice for homeowners.
- Innovative technologies: Today’s electric appliances are equipped with highly advanced technologies that make them easier to use and more efficient. Some of these features include in-app monitoring & controls, predictive maintenance, machine learning, and more.
- Increased comfort: In addition to increasing the efficiency of your home, electric appliances are also more effective than their fossil fuel predecessors. When you upgrade your home to electric HVAC systems, you’ll notice more consistent temperatures and advanced humidity control to stay more comfortable.
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How can I increase the efficiency of my HVAC system?
There are a few simple things you can do to keep your system at peak performance.
Regularly clean and replace your air filters with a quality product, or call us to check them.
Keep the equipment operating at recommended levels, as specified by your Hassler technician.
Use shades or drapes on windows to moderate temperatures in rooms that get lots of sunlight.
Make sure your home has properly installed, adequate insulation.
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How do I choose the right size heating and cooling system?
When it comes to optimum comfort and energy efficiency, bigger is not necessarily better. An over-capacity heating and cooling system will not run as frequently or as long, which can result in poor control over your living space. Over- or under-capacity equipment is less energy efficient, and can result in higher monthly utility bills.
Hassler’s trained technicians and estimators make sure your new unit is properly sized for your home and your specific needs. We can do a home energy audit and give you a cost analysis that shows approximate operating costs and how much money you can save each month on energy costs.
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What does an air handler do?An air handler circulates conditioned air throughout your home. This makes it easier to filter and humidify or dehumidify air.
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Why should I care about air quality and filtration?
Indoor air pollution can be 2-5 times higher than outdoor air pollution, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Consider the amount of time you spend in your home, and the reasons to pay attention to air quality and proper filtration are clear. Unfortunately, some common household items (like furniture, fabrics and building materials) can emit potentially harmful gases or particles that can make you sick or unhealthy. This is especially a concern for anyone with asthma, allergies or mold sensitivity.
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