HVAC Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some questions that we frequently encounter about HVAC from homeowners around Toms River, NJ

Heating Cooling

General HVAC

What is HVAC?

HVAC is short for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. These are the systems that regulate airflow and temperature in your home, and require professional training to install and maintain safely, just like the electrical wiring in your house.

When should I have my heating and cooling systems serviced?

We recommend scheduling regular HVAC maintenance appointments seasonally, in the spring and fall, to prepare for a change in temperature. Our team can clean and inspect the vents and heating or cooling elements to ensure they’re safe for use.

How often do I replace HVAC air filters?

Most air filters need to be replaced every 30 to 60 days, but if your home is exposed to high levels of allergens like pet hair or someone in your home has respiratory issues, you may need to change the filter more often.

How important is my indoor air quality?

Indoor Air Quality, or IAQ, measures the freshness, purity, temperature, and humidity of your home, making it the single most important measurement for the quality of the air you breathe. Damp or polluted air can have lasting effects on your health, so having your home’s IAQ tested during every service visit is a key step to your overall safety.

What are the benefits of a programmable thermostat?

A programmable thermostat is a simple, cost-saving device to focus temperature control for the times and days you need it most, reducing energy use while you’re at work, school, or on vacation.

What is a ductless mini-split system?

A ductless mini-split system is a popular heating and cooling solution for homes without air ducts. With one unit attached outside and one or more small units mounted on a wall inside, the “split” system draws air in, heats or cools it, distributes it through refrigerant lines, and ventilates back out without the need for installing ductwork.

Unlike central air systems, furnaces, and boilers, heat pumps are generally easier to install and more energy efficient. There are ducted heat pumps which typically replace central AC units and force air through a home’s air ducts, and ductless heat pumps which operate via refrigerant lines and don’t require any ductwork. Usually about four internal air-handling units can be connected to a single external ductless heat pump to create “zones” to focus the warm or cool air where you need it and save money. Learn more about heat pumps.

Heating

What kind of heating system do I have?

Most homes use one of several common heating systems, such as a furnace, boiler, heat pump, or electric baseboard heater. A furnace uses gas or electricity to heat air and distribute it through ducts, while a boiler heats water that circulates through radiators or floors. Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling by transferring heat between indoors and outdoors. You can usually identify your system by checking the unit’s label or the type of vents and pipes in your home.

When should I replace my furnace?

Furnaces can last a decade or more with proper maintenance. Ask our technicians during a furnace maintenance visit to evaluate both the age and maintenance records of your furnace for a specific recommendation.

How important is furnace maintenance?

Furnaces use gas to generate heat, so they can be dangerous just like a stove. Regular furnace maintenance reduces the serious risk of a fire, as well as keeps your warranty valid.

What do I do if the heat goes out?

Call BC Express for emergency HVAC repair right away! We serve Ocean, Monmouth, Middlesex, Mercer, and Burlington Counties, as well as the entire New Jersey Shore coastal town areas.

Is there a difference between a gas boiler and oil boiler?

Yes. The main difference is that an oil boiler requires you to purchase and store oil for refills, while gas is pumped directly into your home when you need it. If you live in an area without public gas, oil may be a better option.

Will a heat pump work in cold weather?

Yes, modern heat pumps can work efficiently even in cold weather. They extract heat from the outdoor air and transfer it indoors, even when temperatures are below freezing. Many newer models, known as cold-climate heat pumps, can operate effectively down to -10°F or lower.

A tankless water heater heats water only when you need it, instead of storing hot water in a tank. When you turn on a faucet, cold water passes through a heating element or gas burner inside the unit, instantly producing hot water. This design eliminates standby heat loss and provides an endless supply of hot water. It’s also more energy-efficient and space-saving than traditional tank systems.

Cooling

How do I know when it’s time for an AC replacement?

It’s hard for the average homeowner to know when to replace an air conditioning system, but if you schedule regular AC maintenance with BC Express, one of our expert HVAC technicians can alert you when the cost of repairs is greater than the cost of replacing the system with one that saves you more money on your energy bills. If your utility costs are increasing or you notice your AC is no longer keeping your home cool, those are clear signs it’s time for an inspection and possibly a new AC system.

How long do air conditioners last?

Most central air conditioners last between 12 and 17 years, depending on maintenance and usage. Regular tune-ups, clean filters, and proper installation can help your system run efficiently and last longer. Harsh climates or neglected maintenance can shorten its lifespan. If your AC is over a decade old and not performing well, it may be more cost-effective to replace it.

Why is my air conditioner not blowing cold air?

When your air conditioner isn’t blowing cold air, the problem could be as simple as a dirty air filter or as serious as a refrigerant leak. A clogged filter restricts airflow, making it hard for the system to cool your home properly. Low refrigerant levels or dirty coils can also prevent the unit from cooling efficiently. Check your thermostat and air filter first, and if the issue continues, contact us for a full inspection.

Why is my air conditioner leaking water?

If your air conditioner is leaking water, it’s usually due to a clogged condensate drain line, a frozen coil, or a cracked drain pan. The drain line can get blocked by dirt or algae, preventing proper water flow. Frozen coils can occur from low refrigerant or poor airflow, causing water to overflow when the ice melts. It’s best to turn off the system and call BC Express for emergency AC repair to prevent water damage or mold growth.

Can I fix a noisy AC unit myself?

If your AC is making unusual noises, you should call our team for an inspection. Without proper training, you may cause more damage by trying to complete any repairs yourself, so save yourself the time and hassle and let us take care of the noise.

What should I do about my frozen AC?

Never run your AC if the system is frozen. You can turn off the breaker switch in your home controlling the AC to let the coils thaw, and then call the air conditioning experts at BC Express. We’ll help thaw the coils and dry them completely for safe use.

How can I save money on my electric bill during the summer?

There are a lot of ways to control your electric bill by adjusting your air conditioning. First, consider putting your thermostat at the recommended ideal temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. For every degree cooler, you may spend six to eight percent more on your annual energy bill. BC Express can also help you set up zones in your home to only cool the areas you use, as well as check to make sure your system is as efficient as possible.