Q. What is a split heating & air conditioning system? A split system is when the condensing unit is outside, and the furnace or air handler is in a closet, garage or in the attic. These are separate components.

Q. What is a package heating & air conditioning system? A package system is a heating & air conditioning system in one unit, always outside, usually on the roof, but can be located on the ground with the duct system running under the house.

Q. What are energy ratings? The federal government requires all air conditioning and heating equipment to be rated as to efficiency. The more efficient the equipment, the higher the efficiency rating. For cooling, the rating is SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating); heat pump heating is HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) and gas furnaces are rated with AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). All of these ratings can be explained by asking New-Century Air Systems.

Q. How much will my new air conditioning system cost? The answer is "That depends." There are many things to be considered:  the efficiency of the equipment, the size of your home, is the ductwork installed and in good condition. Are the walls and attic insulated, does the house have double pane windows, and the manufacturer of the equipment. In most cases, replacing your whole system will result in a more efficient, longer lasting system.   Contact New-Century Air Systems for a free estimate.

Q. Should I buy for the lowest price? Not necessarily, there are a number factors you must consider. There is a wide range of brands available in the marketplace, and the price varies substantially, from brand to brand. The energy efficiency of a system has nothing to do with the quality of the system you might buy. The installation of the system is equally important as the quality of the equipment. You can buy the best equipment and have a poor installation, and you will be disappointed. Always make sure the contractor has list of customers that will support their claims. Satisfied customers are your best assurance of a good job. Price is important, but not the only consideration.

Q. How often should I change or clean my filters? Filters should generally be replaced or cleaned every month when the system is running. Replace filters with the same kind and size as the original filter. If your filter is not disposable, follow the manufacturer instructions for cleaning. If the filter is not changed or cleaned on a regular basis it may damage your system.

Q. What size system do I need for my home? There are many things, which will determine the size (capacity) system your home requires. Some of these are: square feet to be cooled, climate, humidity, number of windows, insulation factors, which direction your home faces, heat producing appliances, and even the number of people who will be in the home. New-Century Air Systems can do an energy analysis on your home and help you decide what your particular needs are for your lifestyle

Q. Is there any advantage in setting my thermostat fan to "ON"? There are a couple advantages. One is that you have constant filtering of the air in your home. The other is when the air is moving, you have a more even temperature throughout. In a two story home running the fan will help balance the downstairs and upstairs temperature. If you run the fan frequently you will have to clean or change your filter more often.

Q. What should I be aware of? There are a couple items to be aware of: There are large retailers which commission their name to selected contractors, or they sub-contract the installation to the lowest bidder. This leads you to believe you are dealing with a large company, when in fact, the installation is being done by an unknown sub-contractor. This practice is becoming more common with large department stores, building supply outlets, large membership retailers, and other companies that don’t have an installation capability. In most cases you have no idea who will install your system. The installation is equally as important as the equipment you purchase. You are usually better off dealing with an HVAC contractor which sell, engineer, and install their own systems.  Always be aware of sub-contractor’s,  and their track record.

Beware of advertisements that mention price. There are too many variables to quote a price without doing a analysis of your home. “Remember”, the big print giveth, and the small print taketh away. The majority of equipment, which is advertised at a low price, is minimum efficiency equipment, and is not sized for your home. The ads are designed to encourage you to call, and when the contractor comes to your home they can upgrade the equipment and price. Be careful of ads that mention price. Beware of companies that quote you a price over the phone. Generally the price quoted on the phone will not be accurate. Without doing an analysis of your home, the price is just a guess. Companies that price on the phone generally will give a lowball price to encourage you to set an appointment so they can come to your home and give you the real price.

If you have additional questions, please feel free to call, or send an E-mail.

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3766 Omec Cir, Suite B . Rancho Cordova Ca 95742 . Phone: 916-362-2822 . Contractor’s License#718740