Our FAQ's
Frequently Asked HVAC Questions
What is the right size for my home’s HVAC system?
Given Miami’s hot and humid climate, many homeowners assume that bigger is always better for their HVAC system. However, this is not necessarily true. An oversized air conditioner can present just as many problems as an undersized air conditioner, including higher utility costs, reduced lifespan, and uneven temperature control.
The only way to know the right size for your home’s HVAC system is to work with experienced professionals who understand the energy, performance, and size specifications of every AC brand, make, and model. Direct Heating & Cooling, LLC will send a licensed, factory-trained technician to help you choose a unit that’s perfect for your home—not too big and not too small.
How can I compare HVAC systems?
Unless they’re professionally trained on the latest HVAC technology, it can be hard for homeowners to understand the very precise differences between the various HVAC systems available. At Direct Heating & Cooling, LLC, we’ll help demystify the features and benefits of various HVAC technologies so that you can make an informed decision.
Which HVAC manufacturer or brand is best?
While no brand is necessarily the “best,” we carry reputable products from trusted names like Carrier and Lennox (both of which are considered to be among the “Big 3” HVAC manufacturers). Both of these manufacturers produce many different brands under their umbrella, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
More important than the specific brand is the company you choose to install it. Proper installation, calibration, and maintenance are essential, and as a Lennox Premier Dealer, Direct Heating & Cooling, LLC is fully trained and qualified.
What does SEER mean?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and it’s a rating that indicates how well your HVAC unit operates under real-world conditions. Higher SEER ratings indicate better technology that decreases operational costs and reduces energy use.
Although these HVAC units are typically more expensive and require greater skill to install, Direct Heating & Cooling, LLC is trained for them and can help you choose the right system for you. In general, we recommend installing the highest SEER rating within your budget.
Does indoor air quality matter?
As people spend more and more time indoors, indoor air quality is becoming an important factor toward protecting our health and wellbeing. In fact, studies have shown that untreated indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor air! We install HEPA and MERV-rated products to reduce particulates (e.g. dust and dander), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and microbials that could be damaging to your family’s health.
When and why should I replace my HVAC system?
Many Miami homeowners wait until their HVAC system completely breaks down to consider a replacement—but there are significant benefits to replacing it earlier. If your unit is 10-15 years old, it is likely performing at much lower efficiency, which costs you money in the form of higher utility bills every month. Older systems are also more prone to hazards such as electrical shorts and chemical leaks.
How do I get pricing for the different HVAC systems?
To review the different HVAC systems available and get a free cost estimate, give Direct Heating & Cooling, LLC a call or fill out our online form at your convenience.
How often does my HVAC system need systems?
For optimal performance, your heating and air conditioning system should be inspected and cleaned at least once per year. Maintaining a regular service schedule will also ensure the validity of your HVAC warranty, which likely requires yearly check-ups.
At Direct Heating & Cooling, LLC, we make it easy to stay on top of your HVAC maintenance through our custom service plans. Our yearly maintenance programs can be tailored to your needs and include free service calls and a guaranteed 24-hour service window.
What warranties are included with my HVAC system?
We offer industry-leading warranties that cover both products and labor. We can discuss the specific warranty coverage for each unit when providing your free cost estimate.
How do I register my warranty?
The warranty registration process varies by manufacturer, but our friendly representatives can explain the process and answer any questions you might have during your free consultation.
What air filters can I choose for my new HVAC system?
You’ll have a wide variety of air filters to choose from: fiberglass filters, polyester filters, pleated filters, HEPA filters, and washable air filters. Different filters are recommended for different homes and different HVAC units, so we’ll help you choose the best one for your specific installation.
Will your HVAC systems lower my utility bills?
Yes! One of the biggest reasons that our Miami customers choose an HVAC replacement is to save money on heating and cooling. Our Lennox and Carrier units come with outstanding SEER ratings that result in consistent savings. Call us today to explore our many HVAC options and get estimates for how much you might save.
What is HVAC zoning?
HVAC zoning divides your home into individual zones so that heating and cooling can be targeted to a specific area. Because you aren’t climate-controlling your entire house, this method can be much cheaper and more energy efficient.
How will I know if I need a new HVAC system?
Barring a complete breakdown of your HVAC unit, it can be difficult to know whether you need repairs or a full replacement. At Direct Heating & Cooling, LLC, we base our recommendations on a careful evaluation of each unit, but we do follow some typical guidelines: We often recommend replacement if your unit is 15-20 years old, requires very frequent servicing, or has a broken heat exchanger, compressor, or motor. These components can cost thousands of dollars to repair, at which point your money would be better spent on a newer, much more energy-efficient design.
Is a programmable thermostat worth it?
Most homeowners in Miami find programmable thermostats to be a great investment. By adjusting the temperature of your home automatically, these devices allow for significant energy and money savings. A smart thermostat can also prevent your HVAC system from overuse, which is not uncommon during Miami’s hot summer days.
How often do I need to replace air filters?
For an average-sized suburban U.S. home, the recommendation is that air filters should be changed every 3 months. If you have a pet or if a family member has allergies, then you may need to change your air filter monthly.
