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Popular Questions

Do you install air conditioning systems that have the little duct work?

Yes we do! Our preferred brand is Unico when it comes to hi-velocity air conditioning systems. These are a great option for older homes with limited attic or basement space. Usually the outlets are placed around the perimeter walls or ceilings; places that make them very discreet. 

Are indirect fired water heaters a better option?

If you have a standard gas water heater or an oil boiler with a tankless coil in it, and tend to run out of hot water at high demand times, then these are a great option when you decide to make a change. The good quality systems are made of stainless steel and usually have lifetime warranties to the original purchaser. How they work is they get their heat from your existing boiler (almost like you are adding another zone), however all the heat goes into the production of hot water, rather than your radiators. 

Are on-demand hot water heaters a better option?

The developments on on-demand hot water heaters has been fantastic. They are now available with an efficiency rating that can be up to 98%, allowing you to save money! We have been installing them for over 10 years with little to no issues. They do however, require yearly maintenance to clean the heat exchanger part of the unit from any buildup on the inside of the pipes. If it is not cleaned yearly, it can impair the heat exchanging, thus, causing cooler than normal temperatures.

 

If you want to never worry about running the hot water again, on demand hot water heaters are the option for you. 

What is a combi boiler?

A combi boiler is a gas boiler that also has a flat plate heat exchanger that produces on-demand hot water. These are gaining in popularity, most if not all manufacturers now make a combi unit. We find them to be a very good value when replacing existing boilers and/or hot water heaters. 

What the standard warranty on a ductless air conditioner?

The typical warranty on a ductless air conditioner is 5-7 years. However, because we are a Mitsubishi Diamond Dealer, the warranty is extended from 5-7 years to 12 years on all parts. 

Whats the standard warranty on a central air conditioner?

Most manufacturers warranty their compressors and parts for 10 years. This does require that the equipment gets registered with the manufacturer using the model and serial number of the equipment, the installation address, and the customers name and contact information (our office team will do this for you post installation).  

Whats the standard warranty on a gas boiler?

Depending on the manufacturer, the warranty can vary. Typically it can vary anywhere from 2 - 20 year warranties. We make sure all of your customers are aware of the warranty their system is eligible for, once the system/brand is chosen. 

Whats the standard warranty on a gas furnace?

The industry standard for warranties on gas furnaces is usually 10 years for parts and 20 years to life for heat exchangers. This usually applies to the original purchaser of the equipment. If aloud by the manufacturer, when the property changes hands the heat exchanger warranty is shortened to 10 years. 

How long does it take to install a replacement boiler?

On smaller boilers it typically takes 1 day. On larger, multi-zone boilers, it will take about 2 days. With most boiler installations we will do all the necessary prefabrication work in our shop, as well as most of the control wiring. This not only saves you time with having us in your home, but it also allows for the prefabrication to be done meticulously in a well lit space, ensuring quality. 

What is the best way to heat my finished basement?

If you have a forced hot water system, adding another zone of baseboard heat is typically the best method. The reason being is, it is a reasonably simple process that includes adding a zone valve and more baseboard to your existing boiler system. Once the thermostat is installed, your finished basement will be ready to go.  

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If you have a forced hot air system, we do not recommend cutting into the ducts and blowing air into the finished space. The reason is, the basement will be at the mercy of the thermostat on the first floor. In months like November, December, March and April, odds are the heat is not going to run as often on the first floor, therefore, not allowing any heat to get into the basement. To do this right, you have to add a good quality zoning system to the existing ductwork in order to give the basement it's own thermostat. Thus, allowing you to control the heat separately in your finished basement. 

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Another option would be a ductless mini-split heat pump. These have been very popular lately due to the many benefits they have to offer. The ductless mini-split heat pump is first off, ductless, this means no cutting into your existing ducts or adding another zone. They also offer several modes to help ensure a most comfortable living space; these modes include heating, cooling, and dehumidifying (perfect for a finish basement). These systems are also becoming more popular for whole house heating and cooling due to the rising cost of fuel. The filter on these is easy to access and even washable, so you cut out the need to buy filters, and they have the higher efficiency rating over most other HVAC systems on the market. 

Should I add an A/C coil for future air conditioning when replacing my furnace?

Most, if not all, good HVAC contractors will recommend adding a new A/C coil for future air conditioning when changing the furnace. You will save several hundred dollars in labor costs by installing it now versus later. The reason they are more expansive when installed at a later date, is due to the labor involved in adapting a new coil to existing ducts. They run anywhere from $500-$700 when installed with a new furnace.  

How long does it take to install central air conditioing?

When adding air conditioning to an existing hot air heating system, this work is usually done in 1 days time. When adding a completely new central air conditioning system to a house (adding ductwork, air handler, registers, grills, etc.), this usually talks anywhere from 3-5 days. 

How long does it take to install a ductless A/C system?

A single zone ductless air conditioner is installed in 1 day. Multi-zone systems can take anywhere from 2-4 days to complete. 

How long does it take to install a replacement gas furnace?

Replacement gas furnaces are typically installed within 1 day. We fabricate any necessary ductwork at our shop, prior to showing up at the job site. This helps to ensure a smooth, top quality, installation. 

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(508) 520-1899

P.O. Box 308 
Franklin, MA 02038

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