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Commonly Asked Questions About Heating & Cooling in Virginia
At West End Heating & Air, we know homeowners often have questions about heating, cooling, and energy efficiency. Whether you’re worried about an aging system, noticing strange noises, or simply trying to make your home more comfortable, you’re not alone.
Here are the top HVAC questions our Richmond-area team hears every day, answered in detail so you can make confident decisions about your home comfort.
Most experts recommend servicing your HVAC system twice a year: once in the spring to prepare your air conditioner and once in the fall to check your furnace or heating system.
These tune-ups keep your equipment clean, improve efficiency, and reduce the risk of a surprise breakdown during extreme weather. Regular maintenance also extends the life of your system, so you get the most from your investment.
If your HVAC system isn’t keeping your home comfortable, common causes include a clogged filter, dirty condenser coils, low refrigerant, or a blocked drain line.
Sometimes the problem can be as simple as restricted airflow, while other times a deeper mechanical issue is at play. A professional inspection will quickly identify the source and restore your system to full performance.
Deciding between repair and replacement often depends on the age and condition of your unit. Systems that are 10–15 years old, require frequent repairs, or can’t keep your home at a comfortable temperature may be better candidates for replacement.
While repairs can solve short-term issues, upgrading to a modern, high-efficiency system often saves money over time by lowering energy bills and reducing the risk of costly breakdowns. Our team provides professional AC repair and replacement, as well as furnace repairs and installation, protecting your family’s comfort no matter the issue.
With routine maintenance, most HVAC systems last around 12 to 15 years. In some cases, older systems can last up to 18 years, but performance usually declines over time.
Gas furnaces often outlast heat pumps because they’re not used year-round. Keeping up with regular tune-ups and replacing worn parts helps you get the maximum lifespan out of your system.
The right system size depends on your home’s square footage, insulation, layout, and climate. Oversized units waste energy and create humidity problems, while undersized units struggle to keep up.
That’s why professional sizing is so important. Our team of certified HVAC professionals performs detailed load calculations and home evaluations, looking at windows, attic insulation, and more, to recommend a system that fits your home perfectly.
An HVAC system often gives warning signs before it fails completely. Look for unusual noises, burning or musty odors, inconsistent temperatures between rooms, rising energy bills, or a system that seems to run constantly.
Any of these symptoms signals it’s time for a professional diagnosis. Addressing problems early can prevent a full breakdown and save money in the long run.
Improving efficiency starts with sealing your home to prevent air leaks. Adding attic insulation, upgrading doors and windows, or sealing crawl spaces all make a big difference.
From there, installing a dehumidifier or upgrading to a high-efficiency HVAC system can further reduce energy use. We often recommend addressing insulation and sealing first, so your investment in new equipment delivers maximum value.
Virginia homeowners who install energy-efficient HVAC systems may qualify for federal tax credits, Dominion Energy rebates, or other utility incentives. These programs can significantly reduce upfront costs, making it easier to upgrade to modern equipment.
Our team stays up to date on available rebates and will walk you through your options so you don’t leave money on the table. Contact us today to learn more!
A thorough HVAC maintenance visit goes far beyond changing the filter. Our technicians inspect the entire system, clean coils and components, check refrigerant levels, flush drain lines, and test all electrical connections.
We also confirm your safety controls are working properly and replace the filter if needed. This level of care improves system performance, prevents breakdowns, and protects your family’s comfort. And, by providing both AC and furnace maintenance, we’ve got you covered year-round!
Don’t forget to check out our service membership plans for even more coverage.
Strange smells and noises are often signs that something needs attention. Dust burning off at the start of the season, mold inside ductwork, or overheating parts can cause odors. Odd sounds may mean loose components, motor issues, or blocked airflow.
In winter, it’s normal for a heat pump’s defrost cycle to sound louder than usual, but if the noise is constant or worsening, it should be checked. During an inspection, our technicians explain what’s normal and identify anything that requires repair.
Still Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.
HVAC systems are complex, but you don’t need to figure them out on your own. If you’re interested in maintenance, need a fast repair, or want to explore energy-efficient upgrades, the experts at West End Heating & Air are here with answers you can trust.