Dependable Service Tips

At Dependable Heating and Cooling, we understand how frustrating it can be when your heating and cooling systems are working properly. We’ve put together a checklist of items you can check yourself before contacting a service technician for repair. If your unit needs repair or possible replacement, we can help you determine which option will be best for you, your home, and your budget.

BEFORE YOU CALL

Refer to the checklists below before calling a service technician.

Air Conditioning Checklist

  1. Is the thermostat set to cool?
  2. Is the thermostat turned lower than the temperature in the house?
  3. Have you changed the batteries in the thermostat?
  4. Are all breakers and fuses good?
  5. Is the service switch on at the air conditioner?
  6. Are all covers in place on the air conditioner and furnace?
  7. Do you see ice on any of the pipes (turn AC off and call for service)?
  8. Are filters clean?

Furnace Checklist

  1. Is the thermostat set to heat?
  2. Is the thermostat turned higher than the temperature in the house?
  3. Have you changed the batteries in the thermostat?
  4. Are all breakers and fuses good?
  5. Is the service switch on at the furnace?
  6. Are all covers in place on the furnace?
  7. Are filters clean?
  8. Turn the furnace power off for two minutes, then back on to see if furnace starts back up. This will reboot the furnace. If this works you will still want to have the furnace inspected for issues.

Contact the experts at Dependable Heating and Cooling to schedule a diagnostic service call or maintenance check.


Should I Repair or Replace My System?

How to tell whether repair or replacement is the right route:

  • Newer Systems – For new or relatively new less than 10 years old systems, it is likely that repairs make the most financial sense.
  • The 50% Rule – If the cost of repair vs. replacement of your system is less than half of its value and is less than 10 years old it may be easier on your checkbook to repair.
  • Moving – If you are planning on moving in the immediate future and your system is still working, talk to your local real estate agent to determine whether either repair or replacement would be in your best interest. A new furnace and A/C may add value to your home.
  • Maintenance – some simple maintenance techniques may help prolong the lifespan of your equipment and make replacement unnecessary. Ask your technician if this is in your best interest, and if so, what you can do to get a few more miles out of your existing system.

Recognizing the Time for Repair vs. Replacement

  • Age – When it comes to repair vs. replacement, the EPA and Department of Energy’s joint ENERGY STAR program recommend systems older than 10 years and furnaces older than 15 years be replaced. Though these systems may last longer, they will lose energy efficiency over time, costing you more in energy bills.
  • Frequent Breakdowns – If your system has broken down multiple times over the past several years, repairs may not be in your best interest. In some cases, they can add up over time, costing you more than investing in a new system.

REPAIR

AGE OF UNIT

Under 10 Years

  • Unit is under warranty
  • Unit has R410A refrigerant
  • Is efficient

EXTENT OF PROBLEM

Minor

  • Drain clogged
  • Electrical problem
  • Fan motor

UNIT SIZE

Sized Right

  • Ensure your unit is properly sized to insure it runs at peak performance and lasts longer

REPLACE

AGE OF UNIT

Over 10 Years

  • Unit wastes energy
  • More likely to break down
  • R22 refrigerant is getting phased out

EXTENT OF PROBLEM

Major

  • Compressor bad
  • Condenser coil bad
  • A coil leaking
  • Extensive repairs

UNIT SIZE

Too Big/Too Small

  • Too big will not remove humidity and will short cycle
  • Too small unit will not keep up on hot days
  • Inefficient
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Dependable Heating & Cooling

2619 Coon Rapids Blvd NW # 101 Coon Rapids, Minnesota 55433

763-757-5040 | Get Directions

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