FAQ's

We’re always ready to help answer your questions, but we recognize that some of our clients would rather find the answer themselves.  Feel free to use the Frequently Asked Questions to see if you can find the answer you seek.  If not, just fill out the form to the right and we’ll get an answer to you quickly.

Q: How does a furnace work?

Heat is created by burning gas, oil, or propane inside the furnace.  Hot gases are created and pass through metal tubing called a heat exchanger.  A blower or fan then moves air in your home’s duct system over the outside of the heat exchanger, warming the air.  The warm air is then circulated through your home.

Q: How is a furnace different from a boiler?

While the basic heating principle is the same, a boiler heats water instead of air.  The heated water is circulated by pump through a system of baseboards in your home.  Some boilers are designed to create steam which is then piped to radiators throughout your home.

Q: What is a "cracked" furnace?

The heat exchanger is the main component of your furnace.  If the heat exchanger has a crack or a rust hole, combustion fumes (including carbon monoxide) can contaminate the air in your home.  This is a potentially deadly situation and must be addressed IMMEDIATELY.

A cracked furnace usually necessitates replacement of the old furnace/heat exchanger with a new one.  If you suspect any problems, turn your system off immediately and call us for emergency service at 1-800-492-3420.

Q: On mild winter days my furnace runs in short blasts and my home keeps alternating between being too hot and too cold. How can I fix this?

A two-speed or variable-speed furnace is the perfect solution to maintaining a level temperature.

Two-speed furnaces can run on a lower speed up to 90% of the time.  This means they operate more quietly and run for longer periods of time than a single-speed furnace.  Longer operating periods mean fewer on/off cycles and much smaller temperature swings.  When your system’s fan runs for longer periods of time it prevents air “stratification” (when warm air rises to the ceiling and cold air settles on the floor).  You get more consistent, even heat throughout your home.

Variable-capacity furnaces (VCF) provide the ultimate combination of comfort, efficiency, and performance.  In addition to the benefits of a two-speed furnace, a VCF offers “smart” motors that automatically adjust the volume and speed of air to provide the most efficient heating or cooling for your home - no matter how mild or cold the weather.  VCFs offer added electrical efficiency as well because the smart fan motors use less electricity than traditional motors.  The motors operate so efficiently that they actually increase the efficiency rating of your central air conditioning system.

Q: What would be considered a "high-efficiency" oil heating system?

A high-efficiency system operates at 85% efficiency, which means that only 15% of the heat produced escapes without being put to use in heating your home.

Q: What kind of savings can I look for by upgrading to a high-efficiency oil heating system?

A high-efficiency heating system operating at 85% efficiency will save you $15 out of every $100 you spend on heating bills.  An older system that is only 65% efficient wastes $35 of every $100 you spend on your heating bills.  The amount of wasted money can go even higher if you factor the escalating repairs and service costs, which typically increase as a system ages.

Upgrading your old system will give you superior comfort and significant cost savings.  Learn more about our high-efficiency oil heating system offerings.

Q: At what temperature should I set my thermostat?

Different people feel comfortable at different temperatures.  We recommend you pay less attention to the numbers on the thermostat display (or the position of the temperature indicator on a non-digital display), and pay more attention to how comfortable the room feels to you.  When you feel comfortable, check the thermostat setting to determine what the “right” temperature is for you.

Q: Should I install a programmable thermostat?

Absolutely!  A programmable thermostat allows for customized comfort settings around-the-clock and they can cut heating and cooling costs by as much as 10%.  They are especially useful for people who are away from home at regular intervals (e.g., during the day when you’re at work).

Q: What does SEER stand for?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and indicates the efficiency of an air conditioning system.  The higher the SEER number, the more cooling you get per unit of energy.

As of January, 2006, only units with a SEER ratio of 13 or higher are allowed to be sold in the U.S.  Today’s cooling units are up to 40% more efficient than those made as recently as ten years ago.

Q: Is it OK to “mix and match” air conditioning components of different efficiencies? Just because my compressor is on its way out, does it mean I need to replace my indoor unit as well?

It’s never a good idea to mix and match air conditioning components of different SEER ratings.  Although you might save money initially by replacing only your outdoor unit with a higher SEER compressors and hooking it up to your older system, in terms of long-term savings it just doesn’t make sense.  It’s like buying a brand new, flat screen TV and then hooking it up to your old, antiquated bunny-ears antenna.  Will it work?  Yes.  Is it recommended?  No.  You’re just not going to get your money’s worth in terms of comfort and efficiency if you combine components of different efficiencies.  You’re better off paying a little extra up front and saving a lot more over time.

Q: My home has a forced-air furnace but no air conditioning. Can I add central air?

You bet!  We can mount a cooling coil on top of the furnace and install a condensing unit outside.  Learn more about how our central air options can keep you cool all summer long.

Q: My home does NOT have forced air heating and therefore there is no ductwork. Can I still get central air conditioning?

Absolutely!  Simple, ductless air conditioning options make it possible to install a quiet, efficient air conditioning system in your home even if you don’t currently have ductwork.

Ductless air conditioning systems consist of one or more indoor air-distribution units linked by refrigeration lines to an outdoor compressor.  These flexible “hoses” can be positioned inside your walls and ceilings with minimum inconvenience.  Installing ductless air conditioning costs a little more than standard central air-conditioning systems, but much less than the cost of installing ductwork and a central air conditioner.

Q: My air conditioner uses Freon. Should I replace it?

Freon is being phased out of use as part of the federal Clean Air Act.  To protect the ozone layer, no central air system with Freon (also known as R22) will be manufactured after 2010.  Air conditioning systems with environmentally friendly refrigerants, such as R410A, are replacing old systems that use Freon for cooling.  We recommend you replace your air conditioner with a more cost effective, environmentally friendly cooling solution.

Q: What makes R410A better than Freon?

Unlike Freon, R410A is a chlorine-free refrigerant.  Developed due to concerns about the depletion of the ozone layer, studies have shown that R410A is not only more environmentally sound than Freon, but it also provides superior performance and energy efficiency.

Q: Why does it cost so much to run an air conditioning system?

Air conditioners run on electricity and electricity is the most expensive energy source.  Converting fuels like coal or natural gas into electricity is inherently inefficient.  In addition, much of the original electricity generated in a power plant is lost during transmission over power lines.  According to the U.S. Department of Energy, by the time it reaches your home, electricity is on average only 33% efficient.

Q: Do I really need a tune up for my air conditioner?

An air conditioning tune up and inspection will help catch service problems before they get you hot under the collar.  Many breakdowns occur on the hottest day of the year - because that’s when your A/C is under the most stress.

Because a tune up ensures that your system runs at peak efficiency, you will also lower your electric bills.  An efficiently running air conditioner can save you as much as 30% on your cooling costs.  Give us a call at 1-800-492-3420 to schedule your annual tune up and keep cool while saving money.

Q: What is an indirect-fired water heater?

Indirect-fired water heaters use the burner from your boiler to heat water for your domestic use as well as to heat your home.  A coiled pipe is installed inside your boiler so the hot water in the boiler can heat the tap water flowing through the coil.  In the winter, this modification results in huge water heating savings - often resulting in virtually FREE hot water.  For homes with heavy hot water use, you can install a separate insulated storage tank called an aquabooster to achieve even greater economies of scale.

Q: What can I do to maintain my water heater?

You’ll get longer life from your water heater and prevent breakdowns if you follow these simple guidelines:

• Once every three months, drain one gallon of water from the water heater tank. If you have hard water, do this every month. This reduces the amount of sediment collecting in the bottom of the tank, which can make the burner or heating coils work harder.
• Once a year, have your water heater inspected by a service technician.  This will help keep your system in peak operating condition.

Q: Do you provide 24-hour service?

Absolutely!  We’re here for you 24/7/365.  Call 1-800-492-3420 any time - day or night.

Q: How long do clients have to wait for emergency service?

We recognize that in an emergency you want help fast.  We do our best to always respond as quickly as possible.  Clients with a service agreement are guaranteed emergency service within five hours of notifying us of an emergency.

Q: Do you use your own installation specialists or do you hire subcontractors?

We use only our own certified, factory-trained technicians.  Your comfort and our reputation are too important to put in anyone else’s hands.  Ironically enough, most of our local competitors conduct training at our state of the art Skymansky Institute - located at SMO Headquarters in La Plata, MD.

Q: What does it take to get an estimate on a new heating and/or cooling system?

We’re committed to your comfort and want to make working with us as easy as possible.  A member of our Green Team will come to your home at your convenience and assess your heating/cooling needs.  During that visit we can provide an estimate and if you like, get you scheduled for installation.

Q: Approximately how long does it take to complete an installation of a heating or cooling system?

While every job is different, most of our installations are done in a day.  Depending on the size of the system, some installations may take a little longer.

Q: Do you offer service plans?

Yes.  We offer a variety of Service Agreements to protect your heating and cooling equipment.  From labor contracts to coverage for specific pieces of equipment, we offer many ways to limit your maintenance costs and protect you from expensive repairs.  Learn more about how our various Service Agreements can save you from costly repairs and untimely breakdowns.

Q: Is annual maintenance necessary?

Yes! Heating and air conditioning systems operate for months on end and need regular maintenance just like your car.  Without regular maintenance your system will be less efficient - costing you comfort and money.  Without proper maintenance, over time your equipment will wear down and be more prone to breaking/failure. 

Q: How do I know what size furnace or air conditioning system to install?

Unless you have many years of experience in the HVAC industry, chances are you won’t be able to figure out what size system is best suited for your home.  Our trained experts will be happy to come to your home and calculate your heating and cooling needs.  We will then be able to recommend a system that is the correct size and model to meet your home’s requirements. To schedule a consultation click here or call 1-800-429-3420.

Q: Are underground oil tanks subject to federal regulations?

At this time, there are no federal laws governing active underground home heating oil storage tanks.  Local municipalities do have regulations, however, and we encourage you to either investigate on your own or contact us for additional guidance.

Q: What options do I have for testing my underground tank for leaks?

There are several popular methods for testing tank integrity.  Computerized sonic or ultrasound methods don’t put stress on the tank and are gaining in popularity.  Pressure or vacuum tests are reliable, but put stress on the tank.  If improperly performed, a pressure or vacuum test can actually cause a leak.  Another option is to test the soil around the tank.  Soil boring is non-invasive and, in our service areas, tends to be less expensive than other testing methods.  Water detection paste can also be used to test tank integrity.  The test will show the presence of water in the tank which may indicate a leak.

Q: Can I replace my old underground storage tank with another underground tank?

While replacement is an option, the National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) recommends that homeowners replace underground tanks with new, leak-proof, aboveground models.  Even though modern underground tanks are made of double-walled plastic and fiberglass to minimize corrosion, there’s still a chance leaks can develop in the piping if they are not properly installed.  In addition, same local municipalities have regulations regarding the replacement and/or decommissioning of underground tanks.  Please contact us at 1-800-492-3420 and we’ll be happy to assist you in navigating a tank replacement. 

Q: Where should I put my new, aboveground oil tank?

Because heating oil is safe to store inside a home, you can put your new leak-proof safety tank in your basement, a closet, a garage, or anywhere in your yard.

Q: Is propane safe to use in my home?

Propane is absolutely safe to use in your home and business.  Propane has a narrow range of flammability and cannot be ingested like gasoline or alcohol fuels because it is released as a vapor from a pressurized container.  In addition, award-winning preventive maintenance programs like GAS Check (Gas Appliance System Check) ensure that homeowners understand how to properly maintain their propane appliances and enjoy a healthy, safe environment.

Q: Is propane dangerous to the environment?

No.  Propane is an approved, clean fuel listed in the 1990 Clean Air Act and the Energy Policy Act of 1992.  Of all fossil fuels, propane is one of the cleanest burning.  The use of propane gives off less than half the greenhouse gas emissions of using electricity.  Propane is also nontoxic, so it’s not harmful to soil or water.

Q: How can I be sure I’m handling propane gas properly in my home?

The propane industry has developed a comprehensive maintenance program called GAS Check (Gas Appliance Systems Check) in which trained technicians inspect propane systems and appliances in homes to ensure they are running safely and efficiently.  The program also educates homeowners about proper maintenance of propane appliances and how to handle propane safely.  Learn more by visiting the Propane Safety website or call us at 1-800-492-3420. 

Q: How convenient is it to use propane?

It’s extremely convenient.  In the United States there are approximately 70,000 miles of interstate propane pipelines and more than 25,000 retail dealers - making propane readily available for most homeowners.  Propane is stored in portable tanks, so it can be used in areas beyond gas mains.  To fuel homes, large tanks can be buried underground.  Because propane is a nontoxic, nonpoisonous fuel that doesn’t contaminate aquifers or soil, it offers a safe alternative to other energy sources.

Q: Who uses propane?

Propane is a trusted and reliable energy source that is used by millions of Americans each day.  It fulfills energy needs by burning cleanly and efficiently, giving consumers more value for their energy dollar.  People use propane in and around their homes for furnaces, water heaters, air conditioners, outdoor grills, fireplaces, and appliances.  Propane is used on farms for pest control, crop drying, and irrigation pumps.  At industrial sites, propane fuels forklifts and fleet vehicles.  Propane is also used in millions of commercial establishments (including restaurants and hotels) for heating, cooking, and a variety of other uses.

Q: Where do I go to find out more about propane?

The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) was formed to promote the safe, efficient use of odorized propane gas as a preferred energy source.  PERC is committed to educating the public about propane and propane safety.  To contact PERC, call 202-452-8975 or visit the PERC website.