HVAC Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some questions that we frequently encounter about HVAC from homeowners around Toms River, NJ

Heating Cooling

General HVAC

What is HVAC?

HVAC is short for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. These are the systems that regulate airflow and temperature in your home, and require professional training to install and maintain safely, just like the electrical wiring in your house.

When should I have my heating and cooling systems serviced?

We recommend scheduling regular HVAC maintenance appointments seasonally, in the spring and fall, to prepare for a change in temperature. Our team can clean and inspect the vents and heating or cooling elements to ensure they’re safe for use.

How often do I replace HVAC air filters?

Most air filters need to be replaced every 30 to 60 days, but if your home is exposed to high levels of allergens like pet hair or someone in your home has respiratory issues, you may need to change the filter more often.

How important is my indoor air quality?

Indoor Air Quality, or IAQ, measures the freshness, purity, temperature, and humidity of your home, making it the single most important measurement for the quality of the air you breathe. Damp or polluted air can have lasting effects on your health, so having your home’s IAQ tested during every service visit is a key step to your overall safety.

What are the benefits of a programmable thermostat?

A programmable thermostat is a simple, cost-saving device to focus temperature control for the times and days you need it most, reducing energy use while you’re at work, school, or on vacation.

What is a ductless mini-split system?

A ductless mini-split system is a popular cooling solution for homes without central air ducts. With one unit attached outside and one or more small units mounted on a wall inside, the “split” system draws air in, cools it, and ventilates back out without the need for installing ductwork.

Unlike hydronic (hot water) heaters, radiant panels, and space heaters, ductless heat pumps are generally easier to install and more energy efficient. Usually about four internal units can be connected to a single external unit to create heating “zones” to focus the warmth where you need it and save money. Learn about ductless heating and cooling here.

Heating

When should I replace my furnace?

Furnaces can last a decade or more with proper maintenance. Ask our technicians during a furnace maintenance visit to evaluate both the age and maintenance records of your furnace for a specific recommendation.

What do I do if the heat goes out?

Call BC Express for emergency HVAC repair right away! We serve Ocean, Monmouth, Middlesex, Mercer, and Burlington Counties, as well as the entire New Jersey Shore coastal town areas.

Yes. The main difference is that an oil boiler requires you to purchase and store oil for refills, while gas is pumped directly into your home when you need it. If you live in an area without public gas, oil may be a better option.

How important is furnace maintenance?

Furnaces use gas to generate heat, so they can be dangerous just like a stove. Regular furnace maintenance reduces the serious risk of a fire, as well as keeps your warranty valid.

Cooling

How do I know when it’s time for an AC replacement?

It’s hard for the average homeowner to know when to replace an air conditioning system, but if you schedule regular AC maintenance, an HVAC technician can alert you when the cost of repairs is greater than the cost of replacing the system with one that saves you more money on your energy bill. If your utility costs are increasing or you notice your AC is no longer keeping your home cool, those are clear signs it’s time for an inspection and possibly a new AC system.

What should I do about my frozen AC?

Never run your AC if the system is frozen. You can turn off the breaker switch in your home controlling the AC to let the coils thaw, and then call the air conditioning experts at BC Express. We’ll help thaw the coils and dry them completely for safe use.

Can I fix a noisy AC unit myself?

If your AC is making unusual noises, you should call our team for an inspection. Without proper training, you may cause more damage by trying to complete any repairs yourself, so save yourself the time and hassle and let us take care of the noise.

How can I save money on my electric bill during the summer?

There are a lot of ways to control your electric bill by adjusting your air conditioning. First, consider putting your thermostat at the recommended ideal temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. For every degree cooler, you may spend six to eight percent more on your annual energy bill. BC Express can also help you set up zones in your home to only cool the areas you use, as well as check to make sure your system is as efficient as possible.