HVAC Frequently Asked Questions

If your AC is outdated, replacement can provide long-term savings by increasing energy efficiency and reducing the need for repairs.

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 chance of unexpected breakdowns, and extends the life of the unit. 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.

HVAC tune-ups are best handled by licensed professionals who have the training and experience to catch issues you might miss.

Minor AC repairs may cost as little as $50 to $100, while major repairs like compressor replacements can reach several hundred to over $1,000. 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.

Air conditioners are complicated systems that require specialized knowledge to diagnose and fix, so repairs should only be handled by a licensed HVAC technician.

Regular maintenance keeps your heat pump running efficiently to reduce energy costs and extend 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.

High energy bills can be caused by an inefficient HVAC system, poor insulation, or incorrect thermostat settings. Upgrading your HVAC system, scheduling maintenance, and installing a smart thermostat can all help you manage energy costs.

A furnace generally lasts 15 to 20 years, depending on its brand, usage, and maintenance.

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. 

This depends on usage and factors such as 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.

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 makes a high-pitched whistle when it is worn out or faulty.

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 furnace repairs.