FAQ’s

How often should I change my furnace filter?

There are several types of furnace filters but all filters should be checked monthly and changed as needed, and if all else fails, consult your owner’s manual.

Should I cover my air conditioner in the winter?

YES! But only with a proper cover. Custom covers are available at a very affordable cost. Covering the air conditioner prevents snow and ice from building up and resting on the fan blade and motor causing unwanted wear and tear on the unit.

How often should I have my furnace cleaned?

We recommend having your furnace cleaned every fall. It is important to have the furnace inspected by a professional to ensure that it is operating safely and at peak efficiency. Proper adjustment can lower your heating bills and performing standard maintenance can prevent breakdowns before they occur.

How long should my furnace last?

The average life of a furnace ranges from 18 to 22 years. Sure some may last longer, but those that do have usually been maintained on a yearly basis.

Is it important to have a humidifier in my home?

YES! During the winter months while the furnace is operating, the heat generated evaporates the water vapor in the air leaving your home feeling dry and possibly causing a scratchy throat, bloody noses, and causing woodwork to shrink and crack. It is important to maintain proper humidity in your home for your comfort and to protect your valuables. Maintaining proper humidity could also lower utility bills as much as 15%.

How do I know when it is time to replace my furnace?

As your furnace gets older, it becomes more important to have it inspected on a yearly basis to insure safe operation. If your furnace is getting older and is prone to problems, you may want to replace it. If your furnace has a faulty heat exchanger, you may want to replace it. Today’s furnaces are much more efficient than older units with efficiencies as high as 96.6%.

My air conditioner works. Should I have it checked anyway?

YES! Air Conditioning systems are primarily electrical, so it is important to have the electrical components checked to ensure that a faulty device will not cause larger, more expensive failures. The most important reason to have your system checked is the system’s pump, called the compressor. The compressor is cooled by refrigerant, not air. If the system charge is even slightly low, it could cause the compressor to overheat, causing damage.

Do you offer 24-hour Emergency Service?

Yes, we do! You can count on us, 24 hours a day.

Do you charge by the hour or by the job?

We use Flat Rate Pricing for our customers. Many companies charge by the hour leaving customers watching the clock and worrying how much their bill will be. With Flat Rate Pricing, our customers know the cost of their repairs before the work is performed.

I understand the importance of regular maintenance, but it is so expensive to have it done two times a year. How can I make it more affordable?

Many companies offer maintenance agreements that offer discounts and great savings. We offer the Great Dane Customer Care Program. Our program includes two inspections throughout the year, as well as offers our customers a 20% discount on any needed repairs, priority service, plus many other benefits.

Should I have my ducts cleaned?

Yes, having your ducts cleaned will improve your indoor air quality as well as keeping your heating and cooling system clean and operating properly.

Why is it that my thermostat reads 76 degrees in the winter, but I still feel so cold?

It could be that your thermostat needs to be adjusted. However, it is more likely to be the humidity level in your home. When the humidity level is lowered, it causes the moisture to be removed from the surface of your skin, causing you to feel cold. Installing a humidifier in your home can save you money by allowing you to keep the thermostat at a lower setting.

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

YES! Today’s high efficiency units can usually cut utility bills in half.

Should I have a carbon monoxide detector in my home?

ABSOLUTELY!!! We are sure that you know the importance of having a smoke detector in your home. You can hear, see, feel, and smell smoke and fire, but still, you have alarms. Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be produced by any fuel burning appliance such as ovens, driers, water heaters, furnaces, fire places, and even attached garages. If you can’t see it or smell it, you should definitely have an alarm to alert you of any danger.

Where do you service?

Check out our service area page to see a complete list of the areas we serve. You can also give us a call at 586.790.2604 and we'll be glad to help answer any questions you might have.

Need HVAC Service?

Contact the experts at Great Dane Heating, Cooling, Electrical, & Plumbing.

Call us at 586.790.2604!