FAQ's

Air conditioners typically last 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance.

If your AC requires frequent repairs or needs an expensive repair at the end of its lifespan, replacement could be a more cost-effective choice.

Regular AC maintenance helps your AC run efficiently, reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns, and extends the unit’s lifespan. All of these benefits save you money that you would otherwise spend on repairs, higher energy costs, or early replacement.

Maintenance appointments typically last one to two hours, but may take longer if your unit is older or hasn’t been serviced in a while. If your system includes an air handler, regular inspections of key components are important—learn more about our air handler services.

HVAC tune-ups are best handled by licensed professionals who have the training and experience to catch issues you might miss, especially when inspecting critical components like the evaporator coil.

Minor AC repairs may cost as little as $50 to $100, while major repairs, such as compressor replacements, can cost several hundred to over $1,000. If the issue involves refrigerant loss, professional AC refrigerant leak repair may also be needed. Dominion Service Company offers upfront pricing and financing options to help with repair costs.

If your AC freezes up, it could be due to airflow issues or refrigerant problems. Contact a professional for AC repair to prevent further damage, or consider upgrading to a more efficient ductless mini-split system if your current unit continues to experience problems.

Air conditioners are complex systems that require specialized knowledge to diagnose and repair, so repairs should be handled only by a licensed HVAC technician through professional AC repair and maintenance services.

Regular maintenance keeps your heat pump running efficiently, reducing energy costs and extending its life, giving you more years out of your investment.

If your heat pump is over 15 years old or requires frequent repairs, it may be time to consider a replacement.

An inefficient HVAC system, poor insulation, or incorrect thermostat settings can cause high energy bills. Upgrading your HVAC system, scheduling maintenance, and installing a smart thermostat can all help you manage energy costs.

Programmable thermostats help reduce energy costs by allowing you to schedule heating based on your lifestyle and optimize your furnace’s performance.

Make sure your pilot light has a steady blue flame; a yellow flame could indicate poor combustion, which is potentially dangerous because it could be producing carbon monoxide. If problems persist, it may be time to consider professional furnace installation.

This depends on usage and factors such as the presence of pets in the home. Check your furnace’s manual for specific recommendations, but be sure to replace its filter before it gets so dirty that airflow is blocked. If heating issues continue, a professional inspection of related systems like your water heater may also be recommended.

We recommend scheduling heating maintenance once a year, ideally before the winter season starts, so it’s ready for peak heating season.

Furnaces can stop working due to thermostat issues, clogged filters, ignition problems, faulty blower motors, or cracked heat exchangers. Regular maintenance can help prevent these issues.

Heating repairs are best left to licensed HVAC professionals to ensure safety and avoid further issues.

This could indicate a problem with the blower motor, which may make a high-pitched whistle when worn out or faulty. If the issue persists, it may be time to consider professional furnace installation or a full system evaluation.

If your furnace isn’t heating properly, check your thermostat settings, then make sure your filters aren’t clogged. If neither of these is the problem, call our team to schedule professional furnace services.

A sudden increase in your energy bill is often caused by one or more of the following: a dirty air filter, duct leaks, aging equipment, thermostat issues, or extreme weather. If your system is running longer than usual or struggling to maintain temperature, it may need maintenance or repairs. Improving your home’s indoor air quality with proper air cleaner and filtration systems can also help your HVAC system run more efficiently and lower your monthly costs.

Most residential HVAC systems last 10-15 years, depending on usage, maintenance, and climate. Furnaces often last a bit longer than air conditioners or heat pumps. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your system, while neglect can significantly shorten it. If your system is nearing this age and requiring frequent repairs, replacement may be more cost-effective.