FAQs
What type of filter should I use?
The best filter for your system depends on your home’s air-quality needs, your HVAC equipment, and your maintenance preferences. As a general guideline:
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Standard Pleated Filters (MERV 8–11): Ideal for most homes. They offer a good balance of airflow and filtration, capturing dust, pollen, and common household debris without over-restricting your system.
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High-Efficiency Filters (MERV 13+): Great for customers with allergies, asthma, or pets. These capture finer particles, including some bacteria and smoke, but not all systems are designed to handle the increased resistance. We can help you determine if your unit is compatible.
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Electrostatic or Washable Filters: Reusable and environmentally friendly, but they require consistent cleaning to maintain performance. Filtration quality varies widely, so these aren’t always ideal for homes with air-quality concerns.
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HEPA Filters: True HEPA filtration is excellent for removing very fine particles, but most standard residential HVAC systems cannot accommodate HEPA filters without modification.
How often should I change my filter?
In most homes, every 1–3 months is a good rule of thumb. However, the ideal replacement schedule depends on a few key factors:
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Type of Filter:
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Standard pleated filters: typically every 60-90 days
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High-efficiency (MERV 13+): about every 30-60 days, depending on system compatibility
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Washable filters: clean and dry monthly
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Home Conditions:
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Pets: Shedding increases dust and dander-change filters every 30-60 days
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Allergies or respiratory sensitivities: Every 30-45 days for best air quality
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Smokers or high dust environments: Every 30 days
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Vacation homes or lightly used systems: Every 3-6 months
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System Usage:
The more your system runs, especially during extreme summer or winter temperatures, the faster your filter fills.
When to replace
your equipment:
Deciding whether to repair or replace your heating and cooling system can be challenging. While a repair might seem more affordable in the short term, replacing an older or inefficient system often provides greater long-term benefits. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. The 50% Rule: If the cost of repairs approaches 50% of your system’s value, it’s usually a sign that replacement may be the better option.
2. Age and Reliability: Even if repair costs are lower, it may make sense to replace your system if it’s more than 12 years old or has a history of frequent breakdowns.
3. Benefits of a New System:
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Convenience – Avoid unexpected repairs and the discomfort of waiting for replacement parts by installing a new system.
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Lower Utility Bills – Modern high-efficiency HVAC systems can save hundreds of dollars annually in energy costs compared to older equipment.
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Energy Incentives – You may qualify for federal, state, or utility rebates when upgrading to energy-efficient systems.
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Eco-Friendly Refrigerants – Newer systems use environmentally-friendly options.
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Enhanced Comfort – Advanced technologies offer more even temperatures, better humidity control, and consistent airflow throughout your home.
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Improved Indoor Air Quality – Modern systems often include advanced filtration and humidity management, reducing allergens, mold, and other indoor pollutants.
Why are refrigerants changing?
Refrigerants have been phased out over time due to environmental regulations aimed at protecting the ozone layer and reducing global warming potential (GWP). Older refrigerants, like R-22, were either ozone-depleting, high in environmental impact, or both.
How does a Lennox Warranty work?
Can a homeowner file a warranty claim?
Warranty claims must be submitted by a Lennox dealer, not directly by homeowners. If you believe your system needs a repair under warranty, contact your original installer or a local Lennox dealer. They’ll diagnose the issue, confirm warranty coverage, and handle the claim process on your behalf.
Is the Lennox warranty transferable to a new homeowner?
Basic Limited Warranty is transferable to subsequent owners. Extended Limited Warranty, except where prohibited by law, is extended to the original owner only, and is not transferable. If labor coverage was added to the Extended Limited Warranty coverage, then the labor portion can be transferable to the subsequent owner.
Additional Lennox Warranty Information (link)
Rheem Warranty information (link)
What are federal incentives with HVAC tax credits & rebates?
As part of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, you can now take advantage of enhanced tax incentives and a new state-administered consumer rebate program that were designed to encourage you to upgrade your HVAC systems with heat pumps and high-efficiency air conditioners and furnaces.
- Rheem: Heating & Cooling Tax Credits
- Lennox: How to Save with Federal Energy Tax Credits
- Energy Star: Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency
