Frequently Asked Questions
Below you’ll find answers to some of the most common concerns, helpful insights, and quick answers to guide you through everything you need to know about keeping your home or business comfortable, efficient, and running smoothly. Whether you’re a new customer or a returning one, we are here to provide clear, helpful information to guide you.
HVAC Education
Smart Answers for Smarter Comfort
At Coolax USA, we believe that an informed customer is an empowered one. Whether you’re replacing a system or trying to understand how your HVAC works, here are answers to some of the most common questions about system sizing, heat pumps, efficiency, and more.
How Is the Size of Heating and Cooling Systems Measured?
HVAC systems are sized based on tonnage, which refers to their cooling capacity.
- 1 ton = 12,000 BTUs per hour
- Residential systems typically range from 1 to 5 tons, depending on the size and layout of
your home.
How Close Can I Plant Around My Outdoor Unit?
To ensure proper airflow and performance, maintain a minimum clearance of 18 inches around
all sides of the unit. Avoid placing plants, fencing, or objects too close that might obstruct
ventilation.
How Do I Know If My A/C Is Properly Sized?
Before replacing your system, a professional load calculation should be performed. Our team
conducts an on-site assessment to evaluate:
- Square footage
- Insulation levels
- Window placement
- Orientation and more
Bigger isn’t always better—a unit that’s too large can lead to poor humidity control and short
cycling.
How Much Does a New HVAC System Cost?
System pricing depends on:
- Equipment size and brand
- Ductwork condition
- Energy efficiency rating (SEER)
- Project complexity
We offer free in-home evaluations to provide accurate, personalized estimates with no
obligation.
Is a Bigger HVAC System Better?
Not necessarily. Oversized systems often:
- Run shorter cycles
- Struggle to remove humidity
- Use more energy
- Increase utility bills
A properly sized system will run longer, more efficient cycles, providing better comfort and air
quality.
Is It Normal for a Heat Pump to Blow Warm (Not Hot) Air?
Yes, that’s completely normal.
Heat pumps typically produce air around 80°F, which may feel cool to the touch but is warm
enough to evenly heat your home.
Why Does My Heat Pump Blow Cool Air and Make a “Whoosh” Sound in Winter?
This happens during the defrost cycle, when your heat pump briefly reverses operation to melt
frost from the outdoor coil. This may take 1–10 minutes and is a normal part of system function
during cold weather.
What Does HVAC Zoning Mean?
Zoning divides your home into separate temperature-controlled areas. Each zone is managed
by its own thermostat and damper system, allowing customized comfort and efficiency in
different parts of the home.
What Is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump is a versatile system that both heats and cools your home by transferring heat in
or out depending on the season.
Unlike gas furnaces, heat pumps don’t generate heat—they move it using refrigerant, making
them highly efficient in moderate climates like Florida.
What’s the Ideal Thermostat Setting?
Most homeowners prefer:
- Summer: 76°F–78°F
- Winter: 70°F–72°F
To avoid overworking your system, avoid changing settings by more than 5°F when leaving the
house.
What Size System Does My Home Need?
HVAC sizing is not one-size-fits-all. It depends on:
- Square footage
- Insulation levels
- Orientation and sunlight exposure
Local climate and humidity
✅ Coolax USA provides professional energy assessments to recommend the right system size
for your specific home.
When Should I Replace My Air Conditioner?
If your system is:
- 10+ years old
- Experiencing frequent breakdowns
- Causing rising utility bills
- No longer keeping your home comfortable
…it may be time for a replacement. Newer systems offer improved energy efficiency, better
cooling performance, and reduced maintenance costs.
Indoor Air Quality
Breathe Cleaner. Feel Better. Live Healthier
At Coolax USA, we know that comfort goes beyond temperature. Air quality, humidity levels, and cleanliness all play a critical role in how your home feels—and how your family thrives. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive about improving indoor air quality (IAQ) and comfort.
Are There Air Conditioning Systems That Are Eco-Friendly?
Yes. Many of today’s modern HVAC systems use R-410A refrigerant (also known as Puron),
which is more environmentally friendly than older refrigerants like R-22 (Freon). These systems
are designed to offer high efficiency while minimizing their impact on the ozone layer.
Visit our Products Page to view high-efficiency systems that meet current environmental
Do Electronic Air Cleaners Really Work?
Absolutely. Electronic air cleaners are an effective tool for improving indoor air quality. Many
models can capture and neutralize:
- Dust and pollen down to 0.10 microns
- Mold spores
- Pet dander
- Smoke particles
Whole-home air purification systems can significantly reduce airborne allergens and
pollutants—especially when paired with a high-efficiency HVAC filter.
Do I Need a Dehumidifier? Are They Worth It?
If you live in Florida or other high-humidity regions, the answer is yes, in most cases. Excess
humidity can:
- Create ideal conditions for mold and dust mites
- Cause musty odors and moisture damage
- Lead to respiratory issues or allergy flare-ups
- Increase cooling costs by making your home feel hotter than it is
A dehumidifier protects your health, your comfort, and your home investment by maintaining
balanced indoor moisture levels year-round.
What Air Temperature Should My A/C Be Producing?
Your air conditioning system should cool the air by approximately 18–20°F compared to the air
entering the return duct.
Example:
- Return air enters at 80°F → supply air should be around 60–62°F
Note: These results are typical on warm, dry days after the system has been running for at least
15 minutes. Results may vary slightly on humid or cooler days.
What Are the Benefits of a Whole-House Dehumidifier?
A whole-home dehumidifier works with your HVAC system to remove excess moisture before it
spreads through your ductwork. Benefits include:
- Cleaner Air – Filters out pollutants and helps eliminate odors
- Better Health – Reduces risk of mold, mildew, and allergens
- Lower Energy Bills – Dry air feels cooler, reducing the need to lower your thermostat
- Home Protection – Prevents moisture damage, stains, and condensation on windows
and walls
Ideal for Florida’s humid climate, especially during the summer months.
What Are the Benefits of UV Lights in HVAC Systems?
UV (Ultraviolet) lights are a powerful tool for sanitizing the air circulating through your HVAC
system. Installed inside your ductwork or near the evaporator coil, UV lights:
- Kill mold, bacteria, and viruses on contact
- Prevent microbial growth on coils and in ductwork
- Improve overall air quality and system hygiene
Particularly useful for allergy sufferers or high-traffic spaces like offices, clinics, and home
with pets or children.
AC Maintenance
Everything You Need to Know About Keeping Your Cooling System in Top Shape
Proper air conditioning maintenance isn’t just about comfort—it’s about long-term savings, energy efficiency, and protecting one of the most valuable systems in your home. Below are some of the most common questions we get from Coolax USA customers.
How Often Should I Service My Air Conditioner?
To maintain optimal performance and efficiency, your HVAC system should be professionally
serviced twice a year—ideally in spring and fall. These seasonal tune-ups help prepare your
system for the demands of summer and winter.
Ask about our Energy Savings Agreement, which includes our 21-point preventive
maintenance inspection to extend equipment life and reduce repair costs.
What Can I Do to Improve Efficiency and Extend My System’s Lifespan?
Here are three key tips for maximizing performance and saving on energy bills:
1. Replace or clean your air filters regularly.
Dirty filters reduce airflow and make your system work harder.
2. Keep the fan setting on “ON” instead of “AUTO.”
This allows continuous air circulation throughout the home, which helps maintain even
temperatures and improves air filtration.
3. Use window coverings to block excessive sunlight. Shades, blinds, and curtains reduce solar heat gain—especially on south- and west-facing
windows.
What Maintenance Tasks Can I Perform Myself?
While some HVAC maintenance should only be handled by a licensed technician, there are a few
homeowner-friendly steps you can take:
- Change filters every 1–3 months, depending on usage and environment.
- Keep the area around the outdoor unit clear of debris, leaves, tall grass, or
landscaping. Maintain at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides. - Protect your unit from pets. Pet urine is highly corrosive and can damage the exterior components.
- Be careful when trimming weeds or grass near the unit. Stray trimmer lines can cut wiring or damage the condenser.
⚠️ All other maintenance and diagnostics—especially electrical, refrigerant, or component-
related work—should be left to trained HVAC professionals.
How Often Should I Change or Clean My Air Filter?
For optimal performance, we recommend:
- Disposable filters: Replace every 30 days, especially if you have pets, allergies, or high
system usage. - Washable filters: Clean once a month and allow them to dry completely before
reinstalling.
A dirty filter restricts airflow, forces your system to work harder, reduces efficiency, and
increases energy bills.
How Often Should I Schedule Professional AC Maintenance?
Your air conditioning system should be serviced twice a year:
- In Spring, to prepare for the summer cooling season
- In Fall, before heating season begins
These tune-ups help maintain peak efficiency, extend the life of your equipment, and identify
potential issues before they turn into costly repairs.
Ask us about the Coolax USA Energy Savings Agreement, which includes our 21-Point
Preventive Maintenance Inspection.
What Should I Check Before Requesting Service?
Before calling for professional help, do a quick system check:
- ✅ Make sure the thermostat is on and set properly
- ✅ Verify the air handler or furnace switch is turned on
- ✅ Check that the circuit breaker and disconnect switches are not tripped or off
These simple steps can save you time and help identify minor issues early.
How Do MERV Ratings Affect Filter Performance?
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value and measures how well a filter traps
airborne particles.
- MERV ratings range from 1 to 20
- Higher MERV = More filtration of dust, pollen, dander, bacteria, mold spores, and
even smoke - For most homes, a MERV 8–13 is ideal
- Higher MERV filters should only be used if your HVAC system is compatible with the
increased resistance
No matter the MERV rating, change your filter monthly to maintain peak efficiency.
Smart Home Technology
Smarter Control. Greater Comfort. Maximum Efficiency.
Today’s HVAC systems aren’t just about heating and cooling—they’re about smart, efficient living. At Coolax USA, we offer the latest in Wi-Fi-enabled and programmable thermostat technology, giving you better control over your comfort, energy use, and monthly bills. Here are some common questions we get about upgrading to a smarter home HVAC system:
Are Smart Thermostats with Wi-Fi Worth the Investment?
Yes—absolutely. A Wi-Fi-enabled smart thermostat can:
- Automatically adjust your home’s temperature based on your schedule or occupancy
- Reduce energy waste by turning down heating or cooling when you’re away
- Provide real-time energy usage reports to help you monitor and improve efficiency
- Allow you to control your system remotely from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop
The initial investment often pays for itself through energy savings and enhanced convenience
within the first year.
What Are the Advantages of a Programmable Thermostat?
Programmable thermostats offer powerful benefits for busy homeowners:
- Set schedules by time of day and day of week
- Automatically adjust indoor temperatures when you’re sleeping, working, or on
vacation - Increase efficiency and reduce manual adjustments
- Improve accuracy compared to older mercury-based thermostats
Whether you’re upgrading to a basic programmable model or an advanced smart system,
you’ll enjoy a more energy-conscious and hassle-free way to control your home’s comfort.
AC Repair
Answers to Your Most Common Air Conditioning Questions
At Coolax USA, we know homeowners have important questions when it comes to AC performance, replacement, and indoor comfort. Below, we’ve answered a few of the most frequently asked questions to help guide your decisions with clarity and confidence.
How Much Does a New AC Replacement System Cost?
The cost of a new HVAC system can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:
- Brand and model of equipment
- Size and layout of your home
- Energy efficiency rating (SEER)
- Ductwork condition and installation requirements
Because every home is different, we offer free in-home evaluations to provide accurate,
customized pricing for system replacements.
No pressure. No obligation. Just honest advice.
Do I Really Need a Dehumidifier?
If you live in Florida, the short answer is: Yes—most homes benefit from a dehumidifier.
Excess humidity creates an uncomfortable indoor environment and can lead to:
- Mold and mildew growth
- Musty odors
- Dust mites and airborne allergens
- Potential structural damage over time
A whole-home dehumidifier works alongside your HVAC system to control indoor moisture
levels—improving air quality, comfort, and long-term protection for your property.
Balanced humidity = Better comfort, health, and home preservation.
Should I Limit How Often My AC System Runs?
Not necessarily. In fact, systems that run longer but less frequently can be more energy-
efficient than those that cycle on and off repeatedly.
Here’s why:
- Starting up uses the most electricity
- Short, frequent cycles don’t allow the system to reach optimal efficiency
- A properly sized system that runs steadily can deliver better humidity control and
lower energy costs
If your system is undersized, it may run continuously but still struggle to maintain comfort. If
it’s oversized, it may short-cycle, leading to energy waste and uneven cooling.
Proper system sizing and tuning is key to both comfort and cost savings.
Still Have questions?
Let the experts at Coolax USA help you make informed decisions about your air conditioning system. Whether you need a quick fix, an expert opinion, or a full system upgrade, we’re here for you every step of the way.
Call us at (407) 900-9790 or schedule a service consultation online
Coolax USA — Local Experts. Honest Answers. Always Here to Help.