Air Conditioning FAQs

Do you have a question about your home’s air conditioning? We’ve compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions about HVAC systems to help you find an answer!

Don’t see your question? Give us a call at (239) 542-4421 or (239) 481-1511. Our experts are available around the clock to answer your air conditioning needs.

Q: How can I save money on my monthly energy bill?

There are a few ways that homeowners can save on their monthly energy bills by implementing a few changes to their home’s HVAC unit and air conditioning habits. These include regularly changing your air filter, installing a programmable thermostat, and installing an Energy Star approved air conditioning unit. You can find more information about making your home more energy efficient here.

Q: I am a seasonal resident. What should I set my thermostat at while I am away for the summer?

Although your home will be vacant during the summer months, it is still important to leave your air conditioning on. Turning off your HVAC system during the summer can create a multitude of issues in your absence such as mold or buildup within your air ducts. To avoid this, your air conditioning should be left with the cool setting turned on and the fan set to “auto”. Temperatures will vary depending on your type of thermostat.

If you have a programmable thermostat, we suggest you program your thermostat to run at 72 degrees for only two hours before sunrise and at 85 degrees or higher for the remainder of the day. The two hours before sunrise help cool your home and prevent the buildup of mildew and mold without your unit having to work overtime during the daylight hours.

If you have a non-programmable thermostat, set your air conditioning to run at 80 degrees when you’re away. If you live in a condo or apartment complex, check with your managing office about minimum thermostat settings while you’re away.

Q: How often should I change my air filter?

Filters should be checked monthly and should be changed every three months at a minimum. Neglecting to regularly change your filter can cause larger, more costly issues to develop such as unit freezing, blockages, and poor air quality.

Q: Should I have regular maintenance on my unit?

HVAC units should receive a yearly maintenance check to ensure all components are functioning properly. Yearly maintenance keeps your air conditioning system in tip-top shape and can extend the life of your unit by years.

The service contracts offered by Avis are intended to help you cut down on the cost of air conditioning repair over the life of the unit. By utilizing our service contracts, you can potentially save hundreds of dollars a year in air conditioning service costs, while ensuring that you are never caught in the heat without a working unit. Contact Avis today to learn more about how to start saving money on service costs.

Q: How do I know if my air conditioning isn’t working?

If your air conditioning system suddenly starts making new noises or producing odd smells, it should be serviced right away. Other issues that indicate it is not working are utility bills that show dramatic increases despite normal usage, the system constantly running without a change in the room’s temperature, or if warm air is being blown into the room.

These are only a few examples of symptoms for larger HVAC malfunctions. If you suspect your air conditioning is not functioning correctly, give Avis a call so that the issue can be resolved.

Q: My A/C won’t turn on. What should I do before calling you?

If your air conditioning is not turning on, there may be a few quick tricks that could resolve the issue without the need for a service call.

Troubleshoot your issue by following the steps found in this article from our collection of Air Conditioning Tips.

What should I do if I suspect my air conditioning is leaking?

If you suspect your A/C is leaking, immediately turn it off. The leaking water is most likely due to a clogged drain line or drain pan. Air conditioning units remove moisture from the air and will continue to run, despite overflowing, unless it is turned off. Many units come equipped with a float switch, which acts as an automatic emergency shut off for your air conditioning if a leak is detected. If a float switch is damaged, the air conditioning will need to be turned off manually.

Once you have turned your unit off, you will need to call a professional HVAC technician to remove the clog and repair the issue. Avis’s experienced technicians are available 24/7, including holidays, to service your unit.

My A/C keeps icing up. What can I do to prevent this from happening?

Air conditioning units that freeze up can be caused by a variety of things. The most common reason is due to a clogged air filter. A dirty air filter restricts air from moving across the evaporator coil and causes ice to form. Ice forming on the unit should be addressed immediately by a licensed A/C professional to prevent motor failure, compressor failure, and other types of damage to your unit.

What are your hours?

Avis Plumbing and Air Conditioning is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We are open for all holidays and can offer same day service no matter the time of day.

What HVAC services do you offer?

Avis Plumbing and Air Conditioning provides A/C Maintenance and Tune Ups, Complete System Replacements, Air Duct Video Inspections, Service Contracts, and all other general repairs. We are licensed state HVAC contractors and serve both residential and commercial clients.

What geographic areas do you service?

Avis provides residential and commercial plumbing and air conditioning services to Lee, Collier, and Charlotte counties. This includes Cape Coral, Sanibel Island, Captiva, Fort Myers, Fort Myers Beach, Estero, Bonita Springs, and Naples.

Avis Plumbing and Air Conditioning, Inc. takes pride in being one of the oldest and most recognized names in the industry with 50 years of providing Southwest Florida with skilled and professional service.

A fourth generation, family owned and operated business, Avis Plumbing and Air Conditioning is ready to meet your needs whatever they may be.