Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about HVAC and more, answered by the heating and cooling experts at West Temp.
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Heat pumps
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Air conditioning
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Hvac
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Gas furnaces
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Gas fireplaces
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Maintenance
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Tankless hot water
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Gas fitting
Top FAQs
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How does a heat pump work?
A heat pump works by transferring heat from the outside air or ground to the inside of your home. In the winter, it extracts heat from the outdoor air and transfers it indoors to provide warmth. In the summer, the process is reversed to provide cooling.
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What size central air conditioning system do I need?
The size of the central air conditioning system you need depends on the size of your home, the number of rooms, the amount of insulation, and the climate in your area. A professional installer can perform a load calculation to determine the correct size of the system.
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What is the purpose of an HVAC system?
In general, HVAC systems are designed to create a comfortable indoor environment for the occupants of a building. They can help regulate temperature, humidity, and air quality, which can have a significant impact on health, productivity, and overall well-being. Because HVAC systems are so important for maintaining indoor comfort, they are used in a wide variety of settings, including residential homes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities.
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What is the difference between a single-stage and two-stage gas furnace?
A single-stage gas furnace has only one level of heat output, while a two-stage furnace has a low and a high heat output option. A two-stage furnace can be more energy efficient as it adjusts the heat output to match the temperature needs of the home.
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Can a gas fireplace be used during a power outage?
Most gas fireplaces require electricity to operate, so they won’t work during a power outage. However, some models have battery backup systems that allow them to operate without electricity.
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Can I perform HVAC maintenance myself?
While there are some HVAC maintenance tasks that you can perform yourself, such as changing air filters, it’s generally recommended that you hire a professional HVAC technician to perform more complex tasks such as cleaning coils or inspecting ductwork.
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Are tankless hot water heaters more expensive than traditional systems?
Tankless hot water systems can be more expensive to install than traditional systems, as they require specialized installation and may require additional upgrades to your home’s electrical or gas system. However, they can provide significant long-term savings on energy bills.
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How long will the installation take? What disruptions should I expect?
The answer to this question really depends on your specific project. We will provide an estimated timeline for the project and make sure you are well informed about any potential disruptions to your daily routine before work begins and schedule the job accordingly.