Frequently Asked Questions

Here is a small list of things you can try. Of course, all HVAC work should be left to a professional, and attempt these at your own risk.

Pull most thermostats off the mounting plate by holding the bottom edge against the wall and pulling the top towards you.

Look for batteries that will be double-A or triple-A. Try replacing them with fresh quality batteries.

If there are no batteries, put the thermostat back on the wall, starting with the bottom first and then pushing the top in place. Visually inspect the wires for any loose connections or signs of damage.

If it’s a WI-FI thermostat, make sure it is connected to the home router. This will be a good step regardless, as at least you will have figured out the home's WI-FI password. Which may be needed if a service company needs to come out. Look for a Wi-Fi symbol on the thermostat display or access a network settings menu.

Flip the breaker for the indoor and outdoor units. Then turn the inside unit breaker on first, followed by the outside unit breaker. Be patient, to wait 10 minutes for everything to reboot (power cycle) after this. Only try this once. Repeated flipping can potentially damage components.

Next, go to settings and search for updates, if there are updates available select update.
Finally, turn all energy savings features off. With most thermostats if energy savings is set to maximum, during peak power times the thermostat will only cool down to 75 if you have it set for 70, or heat to 65 if it is set for 70.

If you received a free thermostat from the power company, you have authorized the thermostat manufacturer to control your thermostat remotely, the power company notifies the thermostat manufacturer they then protect the power grid, by limiting the usage.

Also check the away settings in the thermostat, if the thermostat is set to power saving while one of the occupant's phones leaves the home. The thermostat will recognize that the device as left the house or is out of range of WI-FI (router) and adjust to the settings programmed into the thermostat.

Take your time going through the settings menu. Remember, it’s like opening a file cabinet, then selecting a file, after which selecting a piece of paper out of the file.

Trust Heat Cool is here for all of Champaign County, Illinois. (217) 898-1508

"Older HVAC systems, typically those 10 years or older, operate at lower efficiency levels. For example, many older air conditioners have a SEER rating of 10, while modern units we install boast a 16 SEER rating. Similarly, heat pumps from 2006 often had an HSPR of 8.2, compared to today's standard of 9.5 HSPF. Modern heat pumps also offer improved low-temperature performance, operating effectively down to 25 degrees Fahrenheit, compared to 35 degrees for older models.

Upgrading to these higher-efficiency systems can yield significant energy savings, potentially up to a 40% reduction in your cooling and heating costs. Furthermore, these upgrades may qualify you for substantial financial incentives. You could be eligible for an Ameren rebate of $900, which directly reduces the system's cost. Additionally, a federal tax credit of up to $2,000 may be available under the Inflation Reduction Act's provisions for energy-efficient home improvements. Both the rebate and tax credit are currently valid through 2025. It is essential to consult with a qualified tax advisor to confirm your eligibility and specific credit amount.

While the energy savings can lead to a payback period of approximately 8 years or more, it's important to note that these savings won't materialize in a single season. To accurately monitor your energy usage, consider using watt meters, and energy monitors, and comparing your energy bills with outside temperatures. Remember that overall system efficiency is also influenced by your indoor unit and ductwork.

As power rates continue to rise, the value of energy-efficient systems increases. Ultimately, the savings you achieve can be reinvested in enhanced home comfort."

WARNING: Repeatedly tripping breakers for your furnace or AC unit is a serious electrical hazard. Do NOT attempt to fix this yourself. Electrical work is dangerous and should only be handled by a qualified electrician or HVAC technician.  Crucially, if your AC compressor is locked up, repeatedly resetting the breaker could cause a high-pressure pin to eject from the unit, resulting in severe injury or death.

If your breaker trips and then trips again within the same day or week, there's a significant problem.  As a temporary measure, try reducing the demand on your system by turning down the heat or turning up the AC. DO NOT repeatedly reset the breaker. This can damage your circuit panel and home wiring, increasing the risk of fire.

Common causes include a worn-out compressor or electrical shorts from damaged wiring. (A "breaker" is a safety switch in your electrical panel.)

Call a qualified HVAC company immediately. If you're in Champaign County or eastern Piatt County, IL, contact us at (217) 898-1508.

• "Experiencing temperature imbalances in a two-story home, particularly with hot upstairs rooms in both summer and winter, is a common concern. Fortunately, there are several solutions to improve comfort and efficiency.

1. Adjusting Manual Dampers:

Many modern homes are equipped with manual dampers located on the main ductwork, typically near the furnace in the basement.

These dampers control airflow to different zones of your home.

Important Safety Note: Never completely close all dampers, as this can severely damage your HVAC system.

How Dampers Work: Each damper has a lever. When the lever is parallel to the duct, the damper is fully open. When perpendicular, it's fully closed.

Seasonal Adjustments: In summer, partially closing downstairs dampers can direct more cool air upstairs. In winter, partially closing upstairs dampers allows heat to rise naturally.

Testing and Monitoring: Use thermometers in each room to record temperatures after adjusting dampers. Allow 24 hours for the system to stabilize at a consistent thermostat setting.

Marking Positions: Use a permanent marker to clearly label damper positions for each room and mark seasonal settings.

Ductwork Inspection: Before adjusting dampers, inspect your ductwork for leaks and proper insulation.

2. Alternative Solutions:

Dual HVAC Systems: Installing separate systems for each floor provides optimal temperature control but involves higher installation and maintenance costs.

Zoning Systems: Zoning allows for independent temperature control in different areas. However, it can reduce overall system efficiency and requires periodic component replacements, such as actuators, which typically need replacement every 7 years.

3. Professional Assistance:

Adjusting dampers can be time-consuming. If you prefer expert assistance, our technicians can efficiently optimize your system.

Consulting with your HVAC technician during routine maintenance is also highly recommended.

Further Assistance:

If you have additional questions or require personalized advice, please contact us.

Serving Champaign County, and Eastern Piatt County, Illinois.

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (217) 898-1508"

"If you're experiencing persistent odors in your home, simply adding a charcoal filter to your existing furnace filter box is unlikely to provide a permanent solution. Here's a breakdown of why and what steps you can take:

1. Limitations of Charcoal Filters:

• Charcoal filters have a limited lifespan for odor absorption.
• Installing a thicker, higher-quality filter in a system designed for a standard 1-inch filter can restrict airflow, increasing energy consumption and potentially damaging your HVAC equipment.

2. Identifying the Source of the Odor:

• Stop Using Air Fresheners: Air fresheners only mask odors; they don't eliminate the source.
• Locate the Odor:
  • Is the odor confined to a specific room?
  • Could it be coming from a piece of furniture?
  • Is there potential mold or mildew growth within the HVAC system?
  • Could there be a deceased animal in the ductwork or unit?
  • Is the smell constant even when the HVAC system is not running?
• By pinpointing the source, you can address the root cause of the problem.

3. Filter Upgrades and Ductwork Cleaning:

• Filter Upgrade: When replacing your HVAC system, upgrade to a 4-6 inch filter system. This allows for greater flexibility in filter selection for allergen control, air quality improvement, and odor removal.
• Ductwork Cleaning: If the odor persists after addressing the source, ductwork cleaning may be necessary.

4. Professional Assistance:

• If you're struggling to identify the source of the odor or need professional ductwork cleaning, consider contacting an HVAC specialist.

5. Service Area:

• If you're located in Champaign County or eastern Piatt County, Illinois, please contact us for assistance.
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone or Text: (217) 898-1508"

1. Installation Errors:

Furnace installation manuals specify an "Effective Flue Length" (EFL), which accounts for the total length and diameter of the PVC flue pipe, as well as the number and radius of bends.

Incorrectly calculating the EFL during installation can lead to flue restrictions. For example, a single 90-degree bend can add 5 to 7 feet to the EFL.

Obstructions:

Exhaust Flue Restrictions: Bird nests are a common cause of flue blockages. Birds are attracted to the warm exhaust, and nests can become lodged within the pipe.

Diagnosing these obstructions can be challenging, especially with long or concealed flue pipes.

2. Improper Air Filtration:

Contamination:

Inadequate air filtration allows dirt and debris to accumulate on the heat exchanger and indoor coil.

During the heating season, this buildup on the heat exchanger burns off, producing an initial odor.

During the cooling season, the buildup on the indoor coil mixes with condensation, leading to organic growth and blockages in the condensation drain line.

These blockages can obstruct the collector box, resulting in pressure switch failures.

Systemic Issues:

Improper air filtration creates many additional problems.

Recommendations: Ensure that air filters are changed regularly and that the correct type of filter is used for your system.

If the home is in Champaign County or eastern Piatt County, please text or call (217)898-1508

Hey, thanks for asking. As always, the advice given here is for general purposes. Consulting with a professional Heating or Cooling company is always the best.

Sounds like a silly question. Yet it's not.  If I were to build a home, every 10x10 room with an 8-foot tall ceiling would have one supply register near the outside wall in the ceiling. With a return grill located on an interior wall down low at an angle that would cut across whatever furniture I would be in most often. This design would supply a gentle, comfortable breeze. My home comfort would be so great That leaving the home would not be desired.

Getting back to the real world. Registers need to throw air, return grills need to pull air. Getting that new 11-piece sectional that covers three-quarters of the room and blocks every supply or return vent will cause the HVAC system to malfunction.

This leads to higher power bills and also leaves home occupants sweating in the summer and freezing in the wintertime. Yet the unit may never shut down, or come on and off quickly, which is known as short cycling.

So yes, select furniture and lay it out in every room based on the airflow of the room.

If you have already created this issue, consider putting the furniture up on some solid 3-inch tall blocks.  Then use some plastic duct extenders. They make them three feet long.

If this advice was helpful. Please follow us on the Trust Heat cool Facebook page, like the page, and leave a comment saying thanks!

Better yet if the home is in the Champaign Urbana area. Call or text Trust Heat Cool (217)898-1508

Hey, thanks for asking. As always, the advice given here is for general purposes. Having a professional Heating or Cooling company in the home is always the best.

Yes, this is normal, think of it as the Furnace, Airhandler, Heat Pump, AC condenser, and Coil as the heart of the home. Like a human heart, it pumps out and returns air at a certain rate.

However, if the Vasculartory system is having issues, and a heart replacement is completed those issues will still exist. The home ductwork is the arms and legs of the system, replacement of the main unit will not achieve much difference from a properly designed and functioning unit that was installed before.

Also note that installing a variable speed unit into a home where the farthest rooms away from the HVAC system never seemed to reach thermostat set point temperature, will only cause more issues, compared to a single speed constant torque blower motor. If the blower motor is not fully ramped up it’s throwing the air at a lower velocity.

Like throwing a Frisbee through the air with a gentle throw, the travel distance is shorter. So make sure all the concerns have been addressed before committing to that new system, be cautious about going with a company that gives only the answer the homeowner wishes to hear.

Finally, if the home is in The Champaign County or Piatt County, Illinois area, reach out to us at Trust Heat Cool will stick an Anemometer down that hot or cold room duct, verifying if it's moving the 500 to 700 FPM of velocity needed.

If this info was helpful, please like, follow, and leave a comment anywhere on our Facebook page.

No, this is not normal but is most likely caused by chemicals in your house. Not the unit itself.  As Heating and Cooling replacement companies, we normally do not go in and take down walls or move ductwork. If the salesperson were to ever inform the homeowner of things, I list them here. The sale may not happen, and the homeowner could be mentally overwhelmed.

I personally like the properly installed and designed HVAC system in the garage. There can be many downfalls to this, Furnaces being installed near a bathroom or laundry room is a terrible location.

If your furnace is located near your laundry room, it's especially important to be mindful of the chemicals in your laundry detergent. The flame sensor, a safety device that detects the presence of a flame, is particularly susceptible to buildup from airborne chemicals like SLS, commonly found in many detergents. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a common ingredient in many laundry detergents, and it can be harmful to your furnace. SLS can build up on the heat exchanger and other components of your furnace, causing it to malfunction. This can lead to a number of problems, including:

Reduced efficiency

Increased energy costs

Carbon monoxide poisoning

Fire hazard

If you're concerned about the effects of SLS on your furnace, you can switch to a detergent that doesn't contain SLS. There are many brands of detergent available that are SLS-free. You can also try using a natural detergent, such as one made from plant-based ingredients.

Here are some other tips for keeping your furnace in good condition:

Change your furnace filter regularly.

Have your furnace serviced by a professional once a year.

Keep the area around your furnace clean and free of debris.

Don't store flammable materials near your furnace.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your furnace is running safely and efficiently.

The following list of products found in many homes when used or stored by the furnace can cause the above-listed concerns and shorten the life of the equipment.

Permanent wave solutions

Chlorinated waxes

Chlorine base swimming pool chemicals

water softening chemicals

De-icing salts or chemicals

Carbon tetrachloride

Halogen type refrigerants

Cleaning solvents (such as perchloroethylene)

Printing inks

Hydrochloric acid

Cement and glues

Antistatic fabric softeners for clothes dryers

Masonry acid washing materials.

Trust Heat Cool services all of Champaign, Urbana, Rantoul, Illinois. Feel free to give us a call, text (217)898-1508 or email [email protected]

Key Arguments for HVAC Maintenance:

• Efficiency:
  • Modern, high-efficiency systems are sensitive to their operating environment. Regular maintenance ensures they run within optimal parameters, maximizing efficiency.
  • As energy.gov states, proper maintenance is crucial for high-performance HVAC.
  • Lack of maintenance leads to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills.
• Lifespan:
  • Overworked, neglected systems generate excessive heat, which degrades components like motors, control boards, and wiring insulation.
  • This significantly shortens the lifespan of your HVAC equipment.
  • Dust and spiderwebs can hold moisture, and when combined with electricity, can lead to equipment failure.
• Safety:
  • Maintenance includes safety inspections, which identify potential hazards like gas leaks, electrical issues, and carbon monoxide risks.
  • Many homeowners only notice if the system maintains the set temperature, not if it's operating safely.
  • Small problems can become big, dangerous problems.
• Preventative Measures:
  • Maintenance allows for the identification and repair of minor issues before they escalate into costly breakdowns.
  • "Predictive repairs" can save you from unexpected and inconvenient system failures.
• Cost-Effectiveness:
  • Investing in regular maintenance can save you money in the long run by reducing energy bills and extending the life of your equipment.
  • Off-season rates are normally lower, making it a good time to do maintenance.

Additional Considerations:

• Indoor Air Quality:
  • Maintenance often includes cleaning or replacing air filters, which improves indoor air quality and reduces allergens.
  • HVAC companies will often offer indoor air quality improvement options during these maintenance visits.
• Manufacturer Warranties:
  • Many HVAC manufacturers require regular maintenance as a condition of their warranties. Neglecting maintenance could void your warranty.
• Finding a Reputable Technician:
  • It's essential to choose a qualified and experienced HVAC technician for maintenance services.
  • Getting multiple quotes, and checking online reviews can help in this process.
• The "Sales Pitch":
  • Some homeowners dislike the sales aspect of maintenance visits. However, it's important to be open to recommendations for necessary repairs or upgrades.
  • Think of it like a doctor's checkup; they're looking for potential problems to keep you healthy.

In conclusion, HVAC maintenance is a valuable investment that can save you money, improve your comfort, and ensure the safety and longevity of your heating and cooling system. Finally, maintenance should be performed twice a year, once in spring and one time in fall.

Financial Incentives:

• Significant rebates are available: a $900 Ameren credit (2025) and a potential $2,600 federal tax rebate (consult your tax advisor). These incentives make this year a financially attractive time to switch.

Potential Advantages:

• Energy Savings: Heat pumps boast significantly higher efficiency (350-400%) compared to high-efficiency gas furnaces (98%), leading to potential savings on heating costs.
• Reduced Gas Consumption: Switching reduces reliance on natural gas.
• Dual-Fuel System Benefit: In our climate, a dual-fuel system (heat pump with a gas furnace backup) is highly recommended. It offers efficient heat pump operation in moderate weather and reliable gas heat in freezing.

Important Disadvantages and Considerations:

• Cold Weather Limitations: Standard heat pumps operate effectively to around 25°F, but installers typically set the backup heat crossover at 28-30°F.
• Electric Heat Strip Costs: Avoid relying on electric heat strips; they can drastically increase energy bills, especially during prolonged cold periods.
• Increased Complexity and Maintenance: Heat pumps have more moving parts, increasing the likelihood of breakdowns. Warranty coverage can be complex, and out-of-warranty repairs can be costly.
• Lifespan: Heat pumps run more frequently than AC units, potentially reducing their lifespan. Manufacturers are also trending towards shorter equipment lifespans (around 10 years) due to design changes for increased efficiency.
• Inverter Heat Pump Considerations:
  • Inverter models are more complex, requiring specialized wiring, surge protection, and professional maintenance.
  • Higher upfront costs and potential maintenance expenses may outweigh energy savings at current rates.
• Installation Quality is Key: Proper installation is the most important factor in the longevity and efficiency of your new HVAC system.
• Increased upfront costs: even with rebates, expect a $1000 to $2000 increase in cost.

Recommendation for Champaign/Piatt County Residents:

• Prioritize dual-fuel systems.
• Carefully evaluate the long-term costs and benefits.
• Choose a reputable installer.
• Contact us at (217)898-1508 for local expert advice.

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"Your AC technician has identified a refrigerant leak, and you're wondering whether to recharge or replace your system. That's a common and important question.

Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

• How we find leaks now:

Modern technicians use advanced digital tools and algorithms for accurate refrigerant level checks, minimizing refrigerant loss. This is a significant improvement over older methods that could waste several ounces of refrigerant each time.

• These advanced tools are expensive, which contributes to service costs.
• Refrigerant Loss:
  • Even with modern methods, some refrigerant loss is possible. Older methods can lose 4-8 ounces each time the system is checked.
  • Regular top-ups can become costly over time.
• Leak Detection and Repair:
  • Finding leaks can be challenging. High-quality leak detectors are expensive and delicate, so not all technicians carry them.
  • Leaks are often found using electronic detectors and soap/bubble tests.
  • Many leaks are difficult or impossible to permanently repair. Once a leak starts, other areas of the system will often begin to leak soon after a repair.
  • If the leak is in the indoor or outdoor coil, replacement of that component is often necessary.
• Replacement vs. Recharge:
  • Older Systems (around 10 years or more): If your system is older and experiencing frequent leaks, recharging may only be a temporary fix. Replacing the entire system might be a more cost-effective long-term solution. The labor costs of replacing a coil can get close to the cost of a full system replacement.
  • Newer Systems: If your system is relatively new, recharging might be a viable option, especially if the leak is small and easily repaired.
• Monitoring and Prevention:
  • Keep track of how often your system requires refrigerant top-ups. Leaks tend to worsen over time.
  • Regular maintenance can help identify potential issues early.
  • Helping your technician by having easy access to the outdoor unit, and having a water hose ready, can help keep the maintenance appointment on time.

In summary:

• For older systems with recurring leaks, replacement is often the most practical choice. Remember, a 16 SEEr system offers the potential for large cooling cost energy savings.
• For newer systems or minor leaks, recharging may be a temporary solution.
• Consider the long-term costs of repeated recharges versus the investment in a new, more efficient system.

It's best to discuss your specific situation with your HVAC technician. They can assess the severity of the leak and provide personalized recommendations."

If you’re in the Champaign or eastern Piatt county, Illinois area, please reach out to us at (217) 898-1508 or by email I [email protected]

Predicting the average HVAC repair cost for 2025 as of March 2025 remains highly uncertain. The industry is experiencing unprecedented price volatility, with weekly notifications of increases from parts suppliers and distributors. Therefore, any online cost estimates are likely inaccurate. It is advisable to add a minimum 30% buffer to these figures, but even this may not fully account for the current market fluctuations.

Contributing to this volatility are pre-emptive price hikes by manufacturers, despite the fact that some anticipated tariffs have not yet been implemented. While a significant portion (40-50%) of HVAC parts originate from Mexico, manufacturers are not waiting for official tariff changes. They are raising prices now, and even disregarding signed 2025 contracts, despite having equipment already in their warehouses. This disregard for existing contracts is creating significant challenges for HVAC service providers.

Given this unstable environment, 2025 will require heightened awareness of preventative maintenance. To minimize the risk of costly repairs, prioritize these measures:

• Regular Filter Replacement: Change your filters monthly during heating and cooling seasons. Use a MERV 5 to MERV 8 filter if you have a standard 1-inch filter.
• Moderate Comfort Expectations: Be mindful of your system's limitations and avoid pushing it beyond its capacity.
• Professional Maintenance: Schedule routine maintenance checks in the spring and fall.

Trust Heat Cool Repair handles a wide range of residential heating and cooling equipment. This includes:

• Heat pumps
• Air handlers
• Boilers
• AC units
• Furnaces

They have extensive experience with numerous brands, including Goodman, Amanda, Ducane, Trane, American Standard, Lennox, McClain, GE, Ecobee, Honeywell, and Aprilaire, and service models from the latest releases back to the 1980s. While they primarily focus on residential systems, they can also address minor geothermal issues. Essentially, they work on nearly all residential HVAC brands.

Financing Options Available for Your Comfort

At Trust Heat Cool, we understand that HVAC repairs and new installations can be significant investments. That's why we offer flexible financing options to fit your budget.

• Flexible Terms: Choose from options like 9 months with no interest, extended terms up to 84 months with competitive rates, and more.
• Quick Approval: Our simple application process often results in approvals within minutes.

Don't delay your comfort. If you're in Champaign or eastern Piatt County, contact us today to learn more about our financing solutions.

Call or Text: (217) 898-1508 Email: [email protected]

Trust Heat Cool offers a home and business safety plan designed to provide transparency and value. We analyze your existing service records from previous companies, enabling you to compare pricing and assess whether any scare tactics were employed. While every company's pricing reflects its operational costs, including callback rates and overhead, Trust Heat Cool strives to offer more economical solutions on average