HVAC Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about your heating and cooling system? Here are answers to some of the most common HVAC questions homeowners ask Spitfire Heating & Air.
How often should I have my HVAC system serviced?
We recommend having your HVAC system checked twice a year — your air conditioner in the spring and your heating system in the fall. Regular HVAC maintenance can help prevent unexpected breakdowns, improve efficiency, and catch small problems before they become expensive repairs.
How often should I change my HVAC air filter?
Most homeowners should check their air filter every 30–90 days. Homes with pets, allergies, smokers, or heavy HVAC use may need more frequent filter changes. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and make your heating and cooling system work harder.
Why is my air conditioner running but not cooling?
Several problems can cause an AC to run without properly cooling your home, including a dirty filter, failed capacitor, dirty condenser coil, refrigerant issue, electrical problem, thermostat issue, or compressor failure. Proper diagnosis is important before replacing parts or assuming the entire system needs replaced.
Why is my furnace blowing cold air?
A furnace blowing cool or cold air could have a thermostat issue, dirty filter, ignition problem, flame sensor problem, limit switch issue, gas supply problem, or another malfunction. If the furnace repeatedly starts and stops without producing heat, it should be inspected.
Why does my HVAC system keep turning on and off?
Frequent starting and stopping is commonly called short cycling. It can be caused by restricted airflow, thermostat problems, overheating, electrical issues, refrigerant problems, or improperly sized equipment. Short cycling can increase energy use and put unnecessary wear on the system.
Why is my HVAC system making strange noises?
Banging, grinding, squealing, buzzing, rattling, or clicking noises can indicate loose components, motor problems, electrical issues, blower problems, or other mechanical failures. New or unusually loud noises shouldn't be ignored.
Why is my air conditioner freezing up?
A frozen AC system can be caused by restricted airflow, a dirty filter, dirty evaporator coil, blower problems, or refrigerant-related issues. Continuing to operate a frozen system can potentially cause additional damage.
Should I turn my AC off if it is frozen?
Yes. Turn the cooling system off and allow the ice to completely thaw. You can normally set the thermostat fan to ON to help circulate air and speed up thawing. Don't keep running the air conditioner while the evaporator coil or refrigerant lines are frozen.
Why is water leaking around my furnace or air handler?
During cooling season, your air conditioner removes moisture from the air and drains it away as condensate. Water around the indoor unit can be caused by a clogged condensate drain, damaged drain line, overflowing drain pan, frozen evaporator coil, or other drainage problem.
Does low refrigerant mean my AC just needs to be recharged?
Not necessarily. Air conditioning systems are closed systems and normally shouldn't consume refrigerant. If the system is significantly low, there may be a refrigerant leak that should be investigated rather than repeatedly adding refrigerant.
Should I repair or replace my HVAC system?
Age alone doesn't automatically mean an HVAC system needs replaced. The condition of the equipment, repair cost, efficiency, comfort problems, refrigerant type, parts availability, and history of breakdowns should all be considered. At Spitfire Heating & Air, we believe in diagnosing the problem first and discussing your options before recommending replacement.
How long does an HVAC system last?
Many residential heating and cooling systems can operate for 15–20 years or longer when properly installed and maintained. Actual lifespan depends on equipment quality, installation, maintenance, operating conditions, usage, and previous repairs.
Can you repair older HVAC systems?
Yes. We believe an older system deserves a proper diagnosis before being written off. When practical and cost-effective, we work to repair existing equipment and keep it operating rather than immediately recommending replacement.
Do you install new HVAC systems?
Yes. Spitfire Heating & Air provides HVAC system replacements, change-outs, upgrades, and new equipment installation. We can help determine the appropriate equipment and system size for your home.
Do you install mini-split systems?
Yes. We install ductless mini-split systems for homes, garages, workshops, additions, outbuildings, and other spaces where traditional ducted HVAC may not be the best option.
What size HVAC system does my home need?
HVAC equipment shouldn't be sized based only on square footage. Insulation, windows, ceiling height, construction, ductwork, sun exposure, air leakage, and other factors can affect heating and cooling requirements. Bigger isn't always better — oversized equipment can create comfort and humidity problems.
Do you offer HVAC maintenance?
Yes. We provide seasonal HVAC maintenance for air conditioners, furnaces, heat pumps, and other residential heating and cooling equipment. Preventative maintenance can help improve reliability and identify developing problems before they result in a breakdown.
Do you provide HVAC repair in Marshfield, Missouri?
Yes. Spitfire Heating & Air provides HVAC repair, AC repair, furnace repair, maintenance, system replacements, and mini-split installation in Marshfield, MO and surrounding communities including Conway, Elkland, Niangua, and Seymour.
What makes Spitfire Heating & Air different?
We're a locally owned HVAC company focused on straightforward service, proper diagnosis, and practical solutions. We believe in repairing equipment when it makes sense, explaining your options, and never pressuring you into equipment you don't need.
Need HVAC help?
Whether you're dealing with an AC that won't cool, a furnace that won't heat, strange noises, poor airflow, or you're considering a new system, contact Spitfire Heating & Air for local HVAC service in Marshfield, Missouri and surrounding communities.