Top 20 HVAC Questions (and Expert Answers)

1. How often should I service my HVAC system in Washington?
‍We recommend professional maintenance twice a year - once in spring (for cooling) and once in fall (for heating).
The DOE (Department of Energy) states regular tune-ups can improve efficiency by up to 15% and extend your equipment life, saving you money in the long run.
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Local Tip: Homes near the coast or under heavy tree cover (like Tacoma or Federal Way) benefit especially from this due to higher debris and pollen levels.

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‍2. How long does a typical HVAC system last in the Pacific Northwest?
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Most systems last 15–20 years with regular maintenance. However, high humidity, salt air, and constant rain can shorten component life.
Trane and Carrier systems often exceed 20 years when serviced annually. The National Association of Home Builders estimates furnaces last roughly 20 years and heat pumps about 16 years. If you’ve got a system at or above this age, hiring a trusted professional to give you their recommendations could keep you out of an emergency situation later on!

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‍3. What’s the difference between a heat pump and an air conditioner?

‍An air conditioner cools only, while a heat pump both heats and cools by reversing the refrigerant flow. In our Puget Sound region, heat pumps are more efficient since our winters are typically mild.
According to the DOE, a modern heat pump can cut heating electricity use by up to 50% compared to electric resistance heating. That’s a lot of savings for you!


‍4. Is duct cleaning really necessary?

‍Yes - especially in the Seattle / Tacoma area, where constant moisture encourages dust and mold buildup.
The EPA recommends duct cleaning if there’s visible mold, pest infestation, or heavy debris inside ducts. If you’ve experienced any of this, call us today and we can help you! Also, we use negative-pressure and deep-brush methods to remove pollutants, improve airflow, and reduce allergy triggers.


‍5. How often should I replace my air filter?
‍Most 1-inch filters should be replaced every 1–3 months, depending on your home’s location and lifestyle.
Homes near construction zones or surrounded by trees should lean closer to monthly changes, as all that air pollution can seep into your home.
Did you know? ENERGY STAR notes that clean filters can reduce energy consumption by up to 15%.‍

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‍6. How can I lower my heating bills during Tacoma winters?

‍Simple steps make a big impact:
• Replace filters regularly
• Schedule annual furnace or heat pump maintenance
• Seal air ducts and window leaks
• Use a programmable or smart thermostat to reduce runtime

According to the DOE, homeowners save up to 10% annually by lowering the thermostat 7–10°F for 8 hours daily in the cold months.


‍7. What size HVAC system do I need for my home?
‍Proper sizing depends on square footage, insulation, duct design, and sun exposure - not just a guess.
We’re expertly trained to size your systems precisely. That’s really important, because oversized units short-cycle and waste energy while undersized units overwork and wear out faster.

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‍8. Are ductless mini-splits worth it for Washington homes?
‍Absolutely. Ductless systems are perfect for older or remodeled homes that don’t have ductwork. They’re efficient, quiet, and ideal for zoned heating and cooling.
Mitsubishi and Daikin models offer SEER2 ratings up to 30, saving up to 40% energy compared to traditional units. We recommend these units and can install them professionally for you.


‍9. How do I improve my indoor air quality?
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‍Three key actions that you can do:
• Keep ducts clean and sealed
• Use MERV 8–13 filters or HEPA systems
• Add a UV light purifier or HRV/ERV ventilation system

Also, if you like, call us to do a professional assessment of your home or business.

‍10. Why is my upstairs hotter than my downstairs?
‍This happens because warm air rises, and your system may not be balanced properly.
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Fixes include:
• Adjusting duct dampers
• Adding return vents upstairs
• Installing a zoned HVAC system or ductless mini-split

The Department of Energy recommends balancing airflow during seasonal maintenance for multi-story homes.


‍11. How often should dryer vents be cleaned?
‍At least once per year, or every six months for larger households.
Thousands of dryer fires occur in homes every single year, often caused by lint buildup.
We use rotary brushing and airflow testing to ensure safe, efficient operation. Your home will be protected and your clothes will dry more efficiently!


‍12. What is a SEER2 rating, and why does it matter?
‍SEER2 stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2, the new 2023 federal standard.
It measures how efficiently a cooling system operates.The higher the SEER2, the lower your energy bills - and so you’re aware, ENERGY STAR recommends at least 15 SEER2 for Washington homes.


‍13. What’s the best smart thermostat for my home?
‍Smart thermostats like the Honeywell Home T9 or Google Nest automatically adjust to your habits.
They can lower energy use by 8–15% annually and improve comfort by learning your personal schedule.

14. Should I cover my outdoor unit during winter?
‍No. Covering it can trap moisture, creating a breeding ground for corrosion.
Simply clear leaves and debris around it - that’s enough.Most modern systems, including Trane and Bosch units, are built to withstand rain, snow, and ice, so you don’t have to worry about any of that.


‍15. How do I know if I need new ductwork?
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‍Signs include:
• Uneven room temperatures
• High dust levels
• Whistling or rattling sounds
• Rising energy bills

If your ducts are more than 20 years old, replacement or sealing can likely reduce your energy loss by up to 20%!

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‍16. What is an HRV or ERV system?
‍These are ventilation systems that exchange stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while conserving heat.
HRVs recover heat and ERVs recover both heat and humidity. They’re perfect for tightly sealed modern homes and can recover up to 80% of your exhaust heat, saving you on heating bills.


‍17. Why does my furnace smell when I first turn it on?
‍A mild “burning dust” smell is normal after months of inactivity.
If it lasts more than a few hours or smells electrical, turn off the system and call a pro immediately - it could indicate overheating or wiring issues. Trust us, it’s better to call someone rather than ignore it.


‍18. Can HVAC systems help with wildfire smoke?
‍Yes, definitely. Ask a pro which filter they’d recommend for your specific system. You can also use a portable HEPA purifier.
If there is wildfire smoke in your area, close your windows and run the fan on “circulate” to continuously filter indoor air.
The Washington Department of Ecology confirms these steps can reduce indoor PM2.5 pollution by 50–80%.‍


‍19. Are there rebates or incentives for upgrading HVAC equipment in Washington?
‍Yes. These are always changing, so check with your power company on what they’re currently offering.
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• Puget Sound Energy and Tacoma Power often offer rebates for high-efficiency heat pumps and smart thermostats.
• Federal tax credits (Inflation Reduction Act, 2023–2032) provide up to $2,000 for qualifying heat pumps.

We try to stay up to date on all current local and federal programs, so feel free to ask us as well!


‍20. How do I choose the right HVAC contractor?
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‍Look for:
• Proper licensing (NW Energy Conservation’s WA Contractor License #NWENEEC844QW)
• Factory training with major brands
• Strong 5-star local reviews
• Transparent pricing and warrantiesEasy communication and full explanations of your options

At NW Energy Conservation, we’re proud to be licensed, insured, and trusted across the South Sound for our friendly, no-pressure service. Call us today!