Frequently Asked Question
These are the most frequently asked questions. Please feel free to contact us if you don’t see your question answered below.
What is a Furnace?
A furnace is a heating system that uses fuel (like natural gas, oil, or propane) to heat air. This heated air is then circulated through ducts throughout your home.
How Long Does a Furnace Last?
Typically, furnaces have a lifespan of 15-20 years. Proper maintenance can extend this lifespan.
What Size Furnace Do I Need?
This depends on several factors:
- Insulation and windows: Better insulation reduces heat loss.
- Number of occupants: More people generate more heat.
- Home size: Square footage plays a significant role.
- Climate: Colder climates require more powerful furnaces.
How Often Should I Change My Furnace Filter?
Generally: Every 1-3 months.
- Factors that influence frequency:
- Pet ownership: More frequent changes are needed.
- Indoor air quality concerns: Allergies or asthma may require more frequent changes.
- Filter type: Some filters last longer than other
Can I Add a Smart Thermostat to My Existing Furnace?
Yes, most furnaces are compatible with smart thermostats.
Smart thermostats offer:
- Remote control: Adjust temperature from anywhere.
- Programmability: Create custom schedules for energy savings.
- Learning capabilities: Adjusts to your preferences.
Why is My Furnace Blowing Cold Air?
Possible causes:
- Dirty air filter: Restricts airflow.
- Thermostat issues: Incorrect settings or malfunctions.
- Pilot light problems: (if applicable)
- Gas supply issues: Insufficient gas flow.
- Faulty ignition system: Prevents the furnace from starting.
How Can I Improve My Furnace’s Efficiency?
- Regular maintenance: Annual inspections and tune-ups.
- Clean air filters: Ensure proper airflow.
- Seal air leaks: Reduce drafts around windows and doors.
- Improve insulation: Better insulation reduces heat loss.
- Consider a programmable thermostat: Optimize heating schedules.
When Should I Call for Professional Help?
- Unusual noises: Loud banging, squealing, or grinding.
- Strange smells: Burning odors.
- Lack of heat: No warm air is being produced.
- Frequent cycling: Furnace turns on and off repeatedly.
- High energy bills: Unexpectedly high heating costs.
How do if I have an existing warranty on my furnace, air conditioner or HVAC system?
Locatethe label on the outer surface of the equipment for a manufacture date. If the equipment is less than five years old it may have a warranty, but also may not based on the model. Warranty terms and conditions change by manufacturer and the installing company. GSHA Services can verify the warranty status of your heating and cooling system.
What Is an AFUE Rating?
If you’ve been looking at various types of furnaces, you’ve probably noticed that they all have what’s referred to as an AFUE rating. This number is a reflection of the energy efficiency of the furnace, and will typically be between 80% and 98%. The higher the number, the more energy efficient the furnace is.
Although you should always take the AFUE rating into account when you’re purchasing a furnace, that doesn’t mean that you should necessarily go with the model that has the highest efficiency rating. Depending on your heating needs, an 80% AFUE furnace may be able to get the job done just fine without forcing you to incur the greater costs that come with the higher efficiency models.
What is ENERGY STAR?
ENERGY STAR is a program that was created by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to help businesses and individuals make energy efficient purchases. This program places the ENERGY STAR label, a small blue and white logo, on items that meet superior energy efficiency standards. This label provides an easy way for consumers to identify quality, high efficiency.
What Is a Generator?
A generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.
What Are The Main Types Of Generators?
- Portable generators: Smaller, easily transportable, suitable for powering essential appliances.
- Standby generators: Larger, permanently installed, automatically turn on during power outages.
- Inverter generators: Produce cleaner power, ideal for sensitive electronics
How Do I Choose The Right Generator?
- Determine your power needs: Calculate the wattage of appliances you need to power.
- Consider portability: If you need to move it frequently, a portable generator is best.
- Fuel type: Gasoline, propane, and diesel are common options.
- Noise level: Consider noise levels, especially for residential use.
- Budget: Prices vary significantly based on size, features, and brand.
How Do I Safely Operate a Generator?
- Never run a generator indoors: Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious risk.
- Proper ventilation: Ensure adequate airflow around the generator.
- Ground the generator: This helps prevent electrical shocks.
- Refuel safely: Turn off and let it cool before refueling.
- Follow manufacturer instructions: Always refer to the owner’s manual.
What Maintenance Is Required?
- Regular maintenance: Clean or replace filters regularly.
- Proper thermostat settings: Set the thermostat to a comfortableRegular inspections: Check for fuel leaks, worn parts, and loose connections.
- Change oil and filters: As recommended in the owner’s manual.
- Clean the generator: Remove dirt and debris.
- Store properly: Protect it from the elements when not in use.
Can I Power My Entire House With a Generator?
Depends on the generator size: Smaller generators can power essentials. Professional installation: For whole-house power, a professionally installed standby generator is typically required.
How Often Should I Service My AC?
It’s recommended to have your air conditioner serviced once a year by a professional.
- Is it expensive to run an air conditioner?
- The cost of running an air conditioner depends on several factors, including the size of the unit, the efficiency of the unit, and the local electricity rates.
What Is An Air Conditioner?
An air conditioner is a device that lowers the temperature of air in a room or space. It works by extracting heat from the air and releasing it outside. This process also removes moisture from the air, making it feel more comfortable.
How does an air conditioner work?
Air conditioners use a refrigerant to cool the air. The refrigerant circulates through a system of coils, absorbing heat from the indoor air and releasing it outdoors. A fan then blows the cooled air back into the room.
What Are The Different Types Of Air Conditioners?
- Window units: These are self-contained units installed in a window.
- Central air conditioners: These systems cool an entire house or building through a ductwork system.
- Portable air conditioners: These units can be moved from room to room.
- Ductless mini-split systems: These systems consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units, connected by refrigerant lines.
How Do I Choose The Right Size Air Conditioner?
The size of the air conditioner you need depends on several factors, including:
- Room size: Larger rooms require more powerful units.
- Climate: Hotter climates require more powerful units.
- Insulation: Good insulation reduces the cooling load.
- Number of occupants: More people generate more heat.
How Can I Improve My Air Conditioner’s Efficiency?
- Regular maintenance: Clean or replace filters regularly.
- Proper thermostat settings: Set the thermostat to a comfortable but not too low temperature.
- Seal air leaks: Seal gaps around doors and windows to prevent cool air from escaping.
- Shade your home: Use blinds or curtains to block sunlight.
Why Is My Air Conditioner Not Cooling Properly?
- Dirty air filter: A dirty filter restricts airflow.
- Refrigerant leak: A refrigerant leak reduces cooling capacity.
- Thermostat issues: A malfunctioning thermostat can prevent the air conditioner from working properly.
How Often Should I Service My Air Conditioner?
It’s recommended to have your air conditioner serviced once a year by a professional.
- Is it expensive to run an air conditioner?
- The cost of running an air conditioner depends on several factors, including the size of the unit, the efficiency of the unit, and the local electricity rates.
How Do I Know If My A/C Units Is Big Enough?
Bigger isn’t always better; its performance and efficiency that count. Before purchasing a replacement system you should always make sure your system is sized properly to match your needs and budget. Your GSHA Services expert will thoroughly assess your home and comfort requirements to determine the proper size and make the appropriate recommendation.
What Does An Air Conditioners SEER Rating Mean?
AC equipment has a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating, or SEER. A SEER of 10 means for one watt you get 10 BTUs moved out of your home. 1 BTU roughly equals one match of heat. 10 matches of heat cost 1 watt roughly.
What Is Freon R-22?
R-410A is the common name for a hydro-fluorocarbon (HFC) being used as a refrigerant in the HVAC industry. Chlorine-free R-410A is the replacement refrigerant for R-22 by HVAC manufacturers. At the beginning of 2010, the use of R-410A refrigerant was required for all new equipment.
How Does GSHA Services, LTD Work?
GSHA Services, LTD puts you in control. We let you buy a new product for your home, pick the installation date online, without the hassle of salespeople. Instead of sending a salesperson out to bother you at home, we get you to answer a few simple questions online. It’s even easy to do on your phone or tablet.
You’ll be able to compare brands and prices to choose from, then you choose a convenient date to have one of our expert installers install it for you.
Answer
First you’ll answer a few straightforward questions. What kind of property you have, and which room you want it in, that sort of thing.
Choose
We’ll recommend a set of packages and let you choose The One. You’ll be able to compare brands and prices to help make up your mind.
Install
Then, your certified installer will arrive to get it all set up. Our installers are qualified, experienced professionals. They’re a friendly lot, too.
What Does The Free, No-Obligation In Home Consultation Include?
During your consultation, an GSHA Services, LTD expert will visit your home to: determine the best way of replace central air unit, perform a load calculation to determine proper size of system for your home.
How Can I Schedule a Service Appointment?
To schedule an electric or HVAC service appointment, call us or fill the form. Provide your contact details and specifics about your new unit’s project. Coordinate a convenient appointment time, confirm the details, and get free, no-obligate in-home AC estimate.
Our estimates for any project are provided without cost or obligation. If you’re considering GSHA Services, LTD for installation, you get a free estimate in your home. It’s that simple.
Areas we Serve
At GSHA Services, LTD we proudly serve homeowners across Chicago and its surrounding suburbs, including Avondale, Algonquin, Antioch, Arlington Heights ,Aurora, Barrington, Bartlett, Beach Park, Bensenville, Bloomingdale, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Crystal Lake, Deerfield, Des Plaines, Downers Grove, Elgin, Elk Grove Village, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Evanston, Forest Park, Glencoe, Glendale Heights, Glenview, Grayslake, Gurnee, Half Day, Hanover Park, Hawthorn Woods, Highland Park, Hillside, Hinsdale, Hoffman Estates, Huntley, Irving Park, Itasca, Kildeer, Lake Bluff, Lake Forest, Lake in the Hills, Lake Zurich, Libertyville, Lincoln Square, Lincolnwood, Lindenhurst, Lisle, Logan Square, Lombard, Long Grove, McHenry, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Naperville, Niles, North Center, North Chicago, Northbrook, Northfield, Oakbrook Terrace, Oak Park, Palatine, Park Ridge, Pingree Grove, Prospect Heights, Riverwoods, Rolling Meadows, Roscoe Village, Roselle, Rosemont, Round Lake, Schaumburg, Skokie, South Elgin, St. Charles, Streamwood, Tower Lakes, Ukrainian Village, Vernon Hills, Villa Park, Warrenville, Wauconda, Waukegan, Westchester Wheaton, Wheeling, Wilmette, Winfield, Winnetka, Wood Dale, Woodstock, Zion and more. Our experienced technicians will help you choose the right furnace for your home, ensuring a seamless installation process.
Financing Options
It’s never been easier to get the best possible system for your home and pay over a period of time. So, every dollar you invest in a higher-efficiency Lennox system not only promises perfect air, it also improves your home’s value and produces energy savings for years to come. And when combined with financing makes your family’s long-term comfort remarkably affordable.