F.A.Q.
Below are some common questions we hear from clients and could be beneficial in your search for a trustworthy plumbing & HVAC partner.
If your question is not listed below, please reach out to us and we will be glad to give you an answer. Contact Us
1. Is Petro Plumbing & Heating Inc licensed and insured?
Yes, we have been serving the Hudson Valley for 60+ years and are fully licensed and insured.
2. What is the difference between a handy-man and a licensed/insured HVAC technician?
Licensed HVAC technicians go through specialized training to handle issues with your heating and cooling systems, and will make sure the work meets local codes.
Incorrect installations or repairs will cost more in the long run.
3. My central air is not turning on or is not blowing cold air. What can I try?
There are two basic things we recommend you look at:
Power – Check the circuit breaker in your panel box to make sure the circuit for the condenser has not tripped. You should also check that the service disconnect outside near the condenser is in the “on” position.
Filter – If there is air blowing, but it is not very cold, then we recommend checking the filter to see if it is dirty. A dirty filter can reduce airflow and cause the system to freeze over. If this happens, change the filter and let the system defrost.
If this doesn’t solve your issue, then you should contact an HVAC company.
4. How often should I do maintenance on my AC?
Manufacturers recommend that you perform yearly maintenance on your system to make sure it is running correctly and efficiently.
This maintenance will help reduce your energy costs and reduce the risk of a significant/costly breakdown.
5. Is there basic maintenance I can do for my HVAC system?
Yes, regularly change your filter.
This step is often overlooked by homeowners and will reduce the efficiency of your system.
How frequently you change your filter is determined by your air quality and grade of filter but is often every 3 months.
6. How do I know what size cooling system I need?
This is where having a trusted HVAC partner is critical.
Many factors need to be evaluated to determine the heat load and required zoning.
Petro has designed and installed many systems and can help explain this process.
7. Is it possible to install central air in my existing home?
The short answer is yes.
We will need to evaluate your heating system to see if it can be adapted to support cooling.
If it can not, then additional ductwork may be required, or we can recommend a ductless system.
8. What are some benefits of ductless mini-split systems vs central air?
No ductwork is a huge factor when considering adding cooling to an existing structure.
These systems also allow for greater flexibility with zoning and providing warm/cold air where it is needed.
9. My ac condenser is making some loud noises. Should I be concerned?
The noise level of an ac condenser varies based on the manufacturer, size, and quality but should not include loud banging or gurgling sounds.
If your unit is making noise that alarms you, we recommend you call an HVAC professional to evaluate.