Frequently Asked Questions

At American Air Masters, Inc., we believe that knowledge is the most powerful tool in air conditioning and heating repair and service. We have compiled this list of the most frequently asked air conditioning and heating questions in order to better help our current and prospective clients. If you have an air conditioning and heating question and you don't see it answered here, give us a call. We are here to help! We can be reached at 817-831-2665.

What is the SEER Rating?

The SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) is how the efficiency of your heating and cooling equipment is measured. The SEER is the amount of cooling your system will deliver per dollar spent on electricity, as compared to other systems. For example, a 3-ton unit may have a SEER efficiency rating of 14 and up. The higher the SEER the more efficient the system will be.

Why should I have a preventative maintenance plan?

Your air conditioning and heating system works hard to perform their functions for your home every day. The continual operation can wear down any machine if the proper care and maintenance is delayed. However, by performing regular maintenance, you can maximize the life cycle of your air conditioning and heating unit and protect it against many common equipment failures. Preventative maintenance inspections performed on a regular basis can uncover leaks, rust, rot, soot, frayed wires and corroded electrical contacts that the naked eye may not notice. You should have maintenance done on your system at least twice a year to ensure maximum efficiency and prevent possible problems that may occur in the future.

What are the advantages of a programmable thermostat?

Since a programmable thermostat is electronic, it is more accurate and efficient than thermostats that contain mercury. With a programmable thermostat, you can control the temperature in your home at different times of the day without ever touching your thermostat. Because everything is automatic, you will never forget to change the setting on your own.

What type of filter should I use?

Standard filters work to keep your air conditioning and heating system clean. The filter rests between the main return duct and the blower cabinet and will improve dust removal by seven times more than a standard filter. Upgrading to a pleated media filter will remove everything from insecticide dust to airborne viruses from the filtered air. Always choose a filter that matches your blower's capacity. For optimum efficiency and filtration, American Air Masters, Inc. recommends that you replace your disposable filters at least once a month. If you have washable filters, they should be cleaned once a month.

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Which air conditioning and heating equipment will best fit my home?

There are many factors that affect the sizing and specifications of your system, including square footage, insulation, window surface and configuration, geographic location of your home, duct sizing and arrangement, and many others. American Air Masters, Inc. can perform an in-home evaluation to determine which equipment combinations will perfectly suit your home and your family's needs.

What is the life expectancy of my unit?

Most air conditioning and heating products are long lasting and offer many variables that affect the life expectancy of the system. All well-maintained units can easily last 10 or more years.

What does HSPF stand for?

HSPF stands for Heat Seasonal Performance Factor, which measures a heat pump’s heating efficiency. The higher the HSPF, the more efficient the heat pump. More technically speaking, the HSPF represents the total heating output of a heat pump during the normal heating season, as compared to the total electricity consumed during the same period.

What does AFUE stand for?

Gas furnaces are rated according to their Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, or AFUE. The AFUE rating measures how efficient a gas furnace coverts fuel to energy. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the unit. A gas furnace with an AFUE of 95 percent is one of the highest efficiency gas furnaces you can buy on the market today.

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What does EER stand for?

The Energy Efficiency Ratio is known as the EER. It measures how efficiently an air conditioning system will operate when the outdoor temperature is at a specific level (95 degrees Fahrenheit). Like the SEER, HSPF, and AFUE, the higher the EER rating, the more efficient the unit.

Should a thermostat be set to "auto" or "on"?

It is preferred that the thermostat remain in the "auto" position. In doing so, the fan will operate only when the temperature requires it to. This is the most used and the most efficient setting. However, there are advantages to using the "on" setting. Air is constantly filtered through the unit’s air filter, and the constantly circulating air results in an even temperature throughout the house.

If I have to replace the outdoor unit, do I have to replace the indoor unit too?

Yes, because of efficiency. Air conditioning and heating systems are designed to operate as a matched system. The efficiency rating is based on the entire system. Replacing the entire system ensures the system will be reliable and efficient.

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What is the difference between a split system and a package unit?

A split system uses indoor and outdoor components to provide a complete home comfort system. A package unit or self-contained unit requires no external coils, air handlers, or heating units. This is used in commercial application.

We hope this page has answered some of the questions you may have. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a free consultation, please contact American Air Masters, Inc. at 817-831-2665.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a service call or free consultation on new equipment, please contact American Air Masters, Inc. at 817-831-2665.

For honest, reliable and fast service, call American Air Masters, Inc. today!

Thank you for your interest in American Air Masters Inc. We look forward to serving you in the future!