Q: How long should my old furnace and air conditioner last?

Life expectancy can vary greatly.  Typically a furnace or air conditioner will last 10-15 years.  Beginning 2009, high efficiency systems may qualify for a $1500 tax credit.  It may pay to replace your old system sooner because of the higher efficiency (lower gas and electric bills) plus the tax credit.  Maintenance is a must to maximize efficiency and protect your investment.

Q: My electric and gas bills are high. Will a new furnace and air conditioner lower my bills?

Yes! A 13 SEER air conditioner can cut electrical consumption, as much as 30%. A 16 SEER air conditioner can cut the electricity used by as much as 60%. A new 90% furnace can usually cut the gas used by the old furnace by as much as 30%. Federal credits for high efficiency air conditioners, furnaces and heat pumps also qualify for a 30% tax credit up to $1500.

Q: What is SEER?

This stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The size of an air conditioner is rated in BTU's or Tons; however the efficiency is rated in SEER. It's like mpg (miles per gallon) in a car - the higher the mpg (or SEER) the lower the gasoline (electricity) bill.

Q: Shouldn’t I install the highest SEER air conditioner available?

 In January 2006, the federal government set a minimum 13 SEER standard. Seer ratings of 16 or higher qualify for tax credits. The initial investment with tax credits may be a better choice than lower efficiency units., Additional electrical savings will last for the life of the equipment. It is important to have your new air conditioner properly sized so it runs long enough to remove humidity. Seers up to 19 are now available.

Q: What is a heat pump? Is it better than an air conditioner?

In the summer, a heat pump is no different than an air conditioner. In the winter, a heat pump operates in reverse and heats the indoors. Heat pumps need auxiliary heat (electric resistance heat or gas furnace) to help them when it is really cold or when the thermostat is moved more than 2 degrees at a time. Natural Gas and fuel oil prices have tripled in recent years. Heat pumps using more stable electrical rates are now an even more economically attractive alternative.  One common complaint of a heat pump is that the air coming out of the registers is not hot enough (compared to a gas furnace). The new "York Affinity" heat pump is designed to deliver warmth and coziness not found in other units.

Q: My home has forced air furnace but no air conditioner. Can I add central air?

Yes, in most cases, since air conditioners require more air flow than furnaces, it may be necessary to add more ductwork or a blower. Also, local codes require that your ductwork be insulated, and your electrical service may need to be upgraded. G & S Metal can determine all the costs required to add central air.

Q: My friend works for a heating and air conditioning company and says he can install a new furnace (or air conditioner) for me for a lot less money. Is this a good idea?

Be sure he has a license, obtains all permits and has adequate insurance. Keep in mind you will be dependent on him and his schedule for warranty repairs. If he meets the above requirements, has the needed experience and you understand that repairs may not be timely - you may save some money, but be sure you are not getting a "cheap" installation that will cost you more money in the long run.

Q: I want a big air conditioner. Someone told me this is not good - what are the advantages and disadvantages?

An "oversized" air conditioner will cool your house quicker, but it will use more electricity and will not remove humidity adequately. If your ductwork is not big enough for the "oversized" air conditioner, the coil may freeze and then the air conditioner won't work at all. Obviously, the air conditioner must be big enough to cool the house, but too big is just as bad. We recommend the proper size to cool your house to 75 degrees when it is 95 degrees outside, and then increase the size slightly, if needed based on your cooling preferences.

Q: Does G & S take care of permits, gas connections, electrical work, etc. that is needed?

We always obtain all required permits. We can take care of the electrical and gas connections also, and we can work with your electrician or plumber if you prefer.

Q: How do I check out the companies I am considering installing my new system?

This is the easiest, yet most important step - call customers. Eliminate any company that doesn't give you a long list of customers that they have installed during the last 1-24 months.

Q: How do I pay for my new system?

For installation of new equipment, we do not require any down payment, however we ask for payment after the installation is complete (unless other arrangements have been made). We accept Visa, MasterCard, Cash and Check. We also have financing available for low monthly payments.

Q: Why should I consider a new high efficiency filter?

High-efficiency filters remove more of the smaller particles from the air. This will help us breathe better and reduce sinus problems, headaches and colds. The air is filtered before entering the furnace and air conditioning coil, making the equipment last longer and reducing fuel consumption by 10%-15% over the life of a new furnace and air conditioner.

Q: Should I have a new programmable thermostat installed with my new system?

Programmable thermostats allow you to have the temperature raise and lower automatically at specific times each day. They will reduce your energy bills and increase your comfort (i.e. get up to a "warm" bathroom during the winter). If your family follows a fairly regular schedule, a programmable thermostat may be a good investment.

Q: Does G & S Metal have experienced service technicians?

Absolutely! We have some of the best and most experienced service technicians anywhere. Our technicians are honest and trained to solve your needs fairly. They DO NOT earn a commission based on how many things they find wrong or on replacing equipment that should be repaired as do some of the other large highly advertised companies. Which philosophy do you think would be in your best interest?

Q: A cracked furnace is dangerous. How often should I have it checked?

If your furnace is over five years old, it should be inspected by a trained service technician every fall before heating season begins. Any other time the furnace is not operating properly (ex. the pilot blows out) it should be checked too. Our G & S Metal service technicians will perform a carbon monoxide test to ensure your safety.

Q: Why should I have my air conditioner checked regularly?

It should be checked and cleaned twice annually to be sure it is operating properly, safely, and at its top efficiency. In some cases regular service is required by the warranty.