Tips And FAQs

A: Before you call for help, there are a few simple things you can check yourself:

• Thermostat settings and power: Ensure your thermostat is set to the proper mode (HEAT or COOL) and temperature. If it has batteries, make sure they're not dead. For cooling, set the thermostat a few degrees below the room temp (or above for heating) and see if the system kicks on.
• Air filter: Inspect your HVAC filter. A very dirty or clogged air filter can block airflow and cause poor performance or shutdowns. Replace the filter if it's dirty and make a habit of checking it regularly.
• Power and breakers: Confirm the HVAC equipment has power. Check that the switches near the indoor unit and outdoor unit are turned on. Also verify your circuit breaker or fuse panel hasn't tripped for the furnace or AC.
• Vents and airflow: Make sure your supply vents and return grilles are open and not obstructed by furniture or rugs. Closed or blocked registers can reduce airflow and harm efficiency.
• Gas and pilot (for furnaces): If you have a gas furnace, ensure the gas valve is open. For older furnaces, check that the pilot light is lit (modern furnaces have electronic ignitions, so this may not apply).

If you've tried these steps and your system still isn't working properly, it's time to call PV Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for professional service. We'll be happy to diagnose and fix the issue!

A: If your AC isn't cooling enough or is blowing warm air, try these tips:

• Thermostat and settings: Double-check that the thermostat is set to "Cool" and the temperature is set below the current room temperature. It sounds simple, but settings can get changed accidentally.
• Air filter and airflow: Ensure the air filter isn't dirty. A clogged filter can significantly reduce cooling performance. Also, confirm that none of your vents are closed or blocked, so cool air can flow freely throughout your home.
• Outdoor unit: Take a look at the outdoor AC unit (condenser). Make sure it's running and that the area around it is clear of debris, grass, or obstructions. A dirty condenser coil or blocked airflow outside can impair cooling.
• Breaker or power check: Verify that the circuit breaker for the AC hasn't tripped. If the outdoor unit lost power, the indoor blower might still run but without cooling.

If these steps don't help and the AC still isn't cooling properly, there could be a refrigerant issue or another mechanical problem. In that case, give us a call - our technicians will diagnose the issue and get your AC back to keeping you comfortable.

A: For a furnace that isn’t heating, you can troubleshoot a few things on your own:

• Thermostat settings: Ensure the thermostat is set to “Heat” (not Off) and the set temperature is higher than the current room temp. If the fan setting is “ON,” the blower will run constantly, so you may feel cool air when the burner isn’t on – “AUTO” will make the fan run only when heating.
• Air filter: Check your furnace’s air filter. A very dirty filter can restrict airflow so much that the furnace may shut itself off as a safety measure. Replace the filter if it’s dirty and see if the heat improves.
• Power and breaker: Make sure the furnace’s power switch (usually a light switch on or near the unit) is on. Also check your electrical panel for a tripped breaker or blown fuse for the furnace.
• Gas supply and pilot light: If you have a gas furnace, verify that the gas valve to the furnace is open (parallel to the gas line). For older furnaces, see if the pilot light is lit – if it’s out, you may need to relight it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Newer furnaces will have electronic ignition, so they won’t have a standing pilot light.

After these checks, if your furnace still won’t heat, it’s time to call in the pros. Our heating technicians can quickly identify the cause (whether it’s an ignitor, sensor, gas control issue, etc.) and get your home warm and comfy again.

A: Yes, we do! We understand that a new HVAC system or major plumbing project can be a big investment, so we offer flexible financing options to make it more convenient. For example, PV Heating, Cooling & Plumbing has partnered with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. to provide a special HVAC financing program. Qualified customers can get a dedicated Carrier® credit card with approved credit, allowing you to buy today and pay over time with convenient monthly payments. This way, you won’t have to tap into other credit lines or savings for an important upgrade. If you’re interested, just let us know – we can walk you through the application and find the best financing promotions available.

A: Absolutely. We offer free estimates for new HVAC system installations, equipment replacements, and many of our services. If you’re considering replacing your air conditioner, furnace, or water heater (or any major installation), we’ll come to your home for a free consultation and quote with no obligation. Our team will assess your needs, answer your questions, and provide a transparent, written estimate for the recommended solution. This way, you can make an informed decision without any upfront cost. Just give us a call or schedule a free estimate through our website, and we’ll be happy to set it up.

A: We stand behind our work and the products we install with excellent warranties. Most new HVAC systems we install come with a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty on parts (we’ll even handle registering the equipment for you to ensure you get the full term). In addition to the manufacturer’s warranty, we provide our own labor warranty on installations – meaning we cover our workmanship. In fact, if you maintain your system with our service agreement, we offer up to a 10-year labor warranty, one of the best you’ll find. (Without a maintenance plan, our standard labor warranty is 2 years, which is still solid coverage.) For repairs and smaller jobs, we typically offer warranty coverage on the parts replaced and a guarantee on our labor as well (specific length can depend on the repair). Rest assured, we want you to have peace of mind: both your equipment and our services are fully guaranteed so you’re protected.

A: Getting in touch with us is easy! You can call or text us at (404) 798-9672 during our business hours. We’re open 7 days a week from 7:00 AM to 8:30 PM to take your call. If you prefer online communication, you can fill out the contact form on our website or use our “Schedule Now” feature to request an appointment. We also respond to emails or messages sent through our social media channels. However you reach out, our friendly customer service team will be ready to help with scheduling service, answering questions, or providing information.

A: Yes – we know that heating and cooling emergencies don’t always happen at convenient times, and we’re here to help when you need us. While our regular office hours are 7 AM to 8:30 PM, we offer emergency service after hours for urgent situations. If your air conditioner breaks down on a sweltering summer night or your furnace stops on a freezing weekend, you can call our number and you’ll reach a real expert who can assist you promptly. We strive to provide same-day emergency service, no matter the time. Our on-call technicians will respond as quickly as possible to restore your comfort. In short, we’re available 24/7 for true emergencies – just give us a call, and we’ll take care of the rest.

A: There are several steps you can take to boost energy efficiency and home comfort:

• Regular maintenance: Keep your system tuned up with annual professional maintenance. A well-maintained HVAC system runs more efficiently and uses less energy, saving you money in the long run.
• Change filters frequently: A clean filter helps your system “breathe” easier. Check your air filter every month and replace it at least every 3 months (or more often if it’s dirty). This ensures proper airflow and lets your system run with less strain.
• Thermostat upgrades: Consider using a programmable or smart thermostat. These devices automatically adjust temperatures when you’re away or at night, so you’re not wasting energy. For example, setting the thermostat a few degrees higher in summer when you’re out can significantly cut cooling costs. Smart thermostats also learn your schedule and can maximize savings without you having to think about it.
• Seal and insulate: Improve your home’s insulation and seal any air leaks (in ductwork, around windows/doors, etc.). By preventing drafts or escaped air, your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard to maintain comfortable temperatures. Likewise, ensuring your ducts are properly sealed can improve efficiency and deliver more even heating/cooling throughout the house.
• Use fans and adjust habits: Using ceiling fans to circulate air can make a room feel cooler, allowing you to raise the AC temperature a bit and save energy. In the winter, reverse the fan direction to push warm air down from the ceiling. Also, simple habits like closing blinds during hot afternoons or dressing warmly and lowering the heat a couple degrees can make a difference in energy use.

By following these tips, you’ll not only save on energy bills but also enjoy a more comfortable and consistent home environment. Our team is always happy to provide more personalized home efficiency advice – just ask!

A: While we handle the in-depth tune-ups, there are a few simple upkeep tasks you as a homeowner can do throughout the year to keep your HVAC system healthy:

• Change your air filters regularly: This is the most important homeowner maintenance. During peak summer and winter, check your filter monthly. At minimum, replace standard disposable filters every 3 months, or as recommended for your filter type. A clean filter protects your system and maintains airflow.
• Keep outdoor units clear: If you have an outdoor AC unit or heat pump, ensure there’s no debris around it. Clear away leaves, grass clippings, or dirt that accumulate on or around the unit, especially in spring and fall. Keep about two feet of clearance so it can “breathe” and release heat properly.
• Check thermostat and detector batteries: At least once a year (for example, every fall), replace the batteries in your thermostat (if it uses them) to avoid it losing power. Also, check or replace batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors as needed – very important for safety when your furnace is running.
• Listen and look: Pay attention to how your system runs each season. If you notice unusual noises, weak airflow from vents, or uneven heating/cooling in rooms, it might indicate a need for adjustment or service. Catching issues early can prevent bigger problems later.
• Prepare for temperature changes: Before the summer heat hits, consider hosing off your outdoor AC coil gently to remove dirt (power off first!). Before winter, test your furnace on a cool fall day to make sure it fires up properly. This way, you aren’t surprised by a problem when you most need your system.

A: Yes, we can certainly help you upgrade to a smart thermostat, and it’s a great improvement for most homes. Smart thermostats (like Nest, Ecobee, Honeywell Lyric, and others) allow for advanced programming and remote control via your phone. They can “learn” your schedule and preferences and automatically adjust the temperature to save energy when you’re away or sleeping. By maintaining more efficient temperature settings, a smart thermostat can reduce your heating and cooling bills while keeping you comfortable. Plus, you get the convenience of adjusting your home’s climate from anywhere. We install and set up smart thermostats all the time – we’ll ensure it’s compatible with your HVAC system and show you how to use it for maximum benefit.

A: A heat pump is essentially an air conditioner that can also run in reverse to heat your home. In warm weather, a heat pump operates just like a standard AC – it removes heat from inside your home and releases it outdoors, cooling your house down. In cold weather, it reverses the process: it extracts heat from the outside air and transfers that heat into your home to warm it. This might sound surprising, but even chilly air contains some heat energy that the heat pump can use. Heat pumps are very energy-efficient for heating in moderate climates because they move heat instead of generating it by burning fuel. Many Atlanta-area homeowners use heat pumps for primary heating and cooling. Heat pumps can be part of all-electric systems or combined with a furnace in what’s called a dual-fuel system for best results on very cold days. Overall, it’s a versatile technology that provides year-round comfort.

A: A dual-fuel system (also known as a hybrid heat system) combines two heat sources: an electric heat pump and a gas furnace. The system intelligently switches between them for optimal efficiency. Most of the time, the heat pump will handle heating your home efficiently, even in cool weather. However, when outdoor temperatures drop to around 40°F or below, the gas furnace will kick in to provide stronger heat. This gives you the best of both worlds – the electric heat pump saves you money during milder weather, and the gas furnace ensures you stay warm on the coldest days. In a climate like Atlanta’s, a dual-fuel system is often more efficient than a traditional gas furnace alone, and it can deliver comfortable heat without drying out the indoor air as much. Our team can help you decide if a dual-fuel setup makes sense for your home and explain how the thermostat controls the switchover automatically.

A: Variable-speed HVAC equipment can adjust its fan/blower speed (and often compressor output) to match the heating or cooling demand, rather than just turning on at full power or off completely. This has several advantages:

• Better humidity control: A variable-speed system runs more often at a lower speed, which allows it to remove more moisture from the air during cooling mode. By pulling more humidity out, it makes you feel comfortable at a slightly higher thermostat setting, and it helps prevent that cold, clammy feeling or mold issues associated with high indoor humidity.
• More consistent comfort: Instead of abrupt on/off cycling that can cause temperature swings, a variable-speed fan ramps up or down gently. This provides a more even temperature throughout your home and avoids hot or cold spots. It can also react to smaller changes, maintaining a steadier environment.
• Quiet and efficient operation: Running at lower speeds for longer periods is generally quieter and uses less energy than frequent stop-and-start at 100% power. The system only works as hard as needed, which can lead to significant energy savings and lower utility bills. Plus, because it’s not constantly slamming on at full blast, there’s less wear and tear, which can extend the equipment’s life.
• Improved air filtration: Since a variable-speed fan runs more continuously, your indoor air is being pulled through the HVAC filter more often. This means you get better air cleaning and circulation, which can improve indoor air quality. Many variable-speed systems even have advanced air filtration or purification add-ons to maximize this benefit.

Overall, variable-speed HVAC systems offer a comfort and efficiency upgrade over traditional single-speed units. They are a bit more complex, but many homeowners find the results well worth it in terms of comfort level and savings.

A: You may have heard that the refrigerant chemical commonly known as Freon (R-22) is being phased out – this is true. As of 2010, R-22 Freon was banned for use in new AC systems due to environmental regulations (it’s an ozone-depleting substance). All new air conditioners and heat pumps now use a more environmentally friendly refrigerant called R-410A. The production of R-22 has been ramping down drastically: by 2020, production was reduced by 99.5%, meaning it’s essentially unavailable except for reclaimed or leftover stock. If you have an older AC that uses R-22 Freon, it’s becoming very expensive to get it recharged, since it’s so scarce. If such a system develops a refrigerant leak, repairs can be cost-prohibitive. We strongly recommend upgrading an R-22 system to an R-410A system when you can. Not only will that ensure you have readily available refrigerant, but new systems are more efficient and earth-friendly. Rest assured, if you’re getting a new HVAC system from us, it will use the latest refrigerant (and future refrigerants are already being developed to be even more eco-conscious as regulations evolve). We’re happy to answer any questions about what refrigerant your system uses and what options you have.

A: You should have your HVAC system serviced by a professional at least once a year – and ideally twice a year for optimal performance. Regular maintenance is crucial: annual tune-ups will lower energy costs, reduce the chance of breakdowns, and prolong the life of your equipment. We recommend scheduling a cooling system check in the spring (for your air conditioner or heat pump) and a heating system check in the fall (for your furnace or heat pump) each year. This seasonal maintenance ensures each part of your system is cleaned, inspected, and adjusted before its heavy-use season. Skipping maintenance can lead to a steady decline in performance and efficiency over time – much like neglecting oil changes on your car. So, to keep your HVAC system running safely, efficiently, and reliably, stick to a yearly or twice-yearly maintenance schedule. Our team would be glad to set you up on a maintenance calendar or remind you when it’s time for service.

A: Yes, we do. PV Heating, Cooling & Plumbing offers a maintenance plan (often called a service agreement) designed to keep your system in top shape and save you money long-term. Our most popular plan is the PV Priority Plan, which includes two scheduled maintenance visits per year – one cooling tune-up and one heating tune-up – to ensure your AC and furnace/heat pump are running efficiently through every season. Maintenance plan members also enjoy perks like priority service, discounted or waived service call fees, and 15% off any repairs or parts if needed. In fact, our plan offers over $600 in additional services and savings over the year (it practically pays for itself!). The goal is to prevent breakdowns, extend the life of your equipment, and provide you peace of mind. We’ll remind you when it’s time for service and handle the scheduling, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting. Many of our customers love that with a maintenance plan, their HVAC upkeep becomes “worry-free.” If you’re interested, ask us about signing up – it’s an easy process, and we’d be happy to have you as a Priority Plan member.

A: A good rule of thumb is to consider replacement if your heating or cooling system is around 10-15 years old or more, especially if it’s experiencing problems. Most HVAC equipment has a lifespan of about 10-15 years under normal use. As systems age, they lose efficiency and performance, and key components can wear out. If your older unit has a major repair need (like a failed compressor or cracked heat exchanger), it might make more sense to put that money toward a new system rather than fixing an aging, inefficient one. Other signs that it’s time to consider upgrading include: rising energy bills despite maintenance (older systems are less efficient), frequent breakdowns or costly repairs in the last couple of years, or comfort issues (some rooms too hot/cold, humidity problems) that new technology could solve. Newer HVAC systems offer improved energy efficiency, better comfort features, and come with long warranties (often 10 years) – so the investment in a new system can pay you back with lower bills and fewer worries. We’re happy to evaluate your current system and give an honest opinion on repair vs. replace based on its condition and your needs.

A: Improving indoor air quality (IAQ) is a combination of keeping pollutants out, filtering the air, and maintaining proper humidity and ventilation. Here are some strategies:

• Upgrade your air filtration: Make sure you have a quality HVAC filter and change it regularly. Higher efficiency filters (like pleated filters or media filters) can trap smaller particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander. Just be sure your system is capable of handling the filter’s rating.
• Air cleaning systems: Consider adding an air purification system. Options include electronic air cleaners, which use electrostatic plates to capture particles, or UV germicidal lights, which kill bacteria, viruses, and mold spores as air passes through your HVAC system. These can greatly reduce airborne germs and allergens.
• Control humidity: Indoor humidity that’s too high can lead to mold growth and dust mites, while air that’s too dry can cause discomfort and respiratory irritation. Using dehumidifiers in the summer (or a whole-home dehumidifier system) and humidifiers in the winter can keep your humidity in the ideal range (around 30-50%).
• Keep ducts and equipment clean: Ensure your ductwork is sealed and consider professional duct cleaning if there’s significant dust or mold buildup. A clean, sealed duct system keeps pollutants from circulating. Also, have your HVAC coils cleaned during maintenance – clean coils and components prevent mold and mildew.
• Ventilation and source control: Bring in fresh air when possible. This can be as simple as opening windows periodically or as advanced as installing an energy-recovery ventilator (ERV). Also, use kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans to remove moisture and odors at the source, and choose low-VOC products to reduce chemical pollutants.

Each home may have different IAQ needs, so it can help to have an assessment done. We can test your indoor air and recommend the best combination of solutions – from air purifiers to duct improvements – to ensure you and your family breathe easier.

A: We offer a full range of indoor air quality products and services to help you achieve a healthier home atmosphere:

• Advanced air filtration: We can install high-efficiency filter systems or electronic air cleaners that go beyond the standard furnace filter.
• Air purifiers and UV lights: Our team installs whole-home air purifiers (including those with UV-C lights) that kill or neutralize bacteria, viruses, mold spores, and other germs as air circulates through your HVAC system.
• Duct sealing and cleaning: We provide ductwork inspections and sealing services to eliminate leaks where dirty attic or crawl space air might enter your ducts. We also offer duct cleaning to remove accumulated dust and debris from inside the ductwork.
• Humidity control systems: Depending on your needs, we can add whole-house dehumidifiers or humidifiers to your HVAC system. These keep your home’s humidity at optimal levels year-round.
• Fresh air ventilation: For homes that need it, we can integrate ventilation solutions such as energy-recovery ventilators (ERVs) or heat-recovery ventilators (HRVs). These bring in fresh outside air while exhausting stale indoor air, exchanging heat so you don’t waste energy.

With these solutions, we can significantly reduce allergens and pollutants in your home and ensure you have fresh, clean air. We’re happy to customize an indoor air quality plan for you – just ask us during a service visit or give us a call to discuss options.

A: We are proud to serve Atlanta, GA and most of the surrounding metro Atlanta communities. Our service area spans a wide radius around Atlanta – essentially, if you’re in the greater Atlanta region, we’ve got you covered. This includes areas like Alpharetta, Brookhaven, Decatur, Dunwoody, Marietta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Smyrna, Tucker, and more. We service customers in Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, Gwinnett, and neighboring counties. If you’re unsure whether we operate in your specific town, just give us a call. Chances are if you’re near Atlanta, you’re in our service area. We aim to be the go-to HVAC and plumbing provider for the entire Atlanta metro area.

A: Absolutely. PV Heating, Cooling & Plumbing is a fully licensed and insured contractor in the state of Georgia, and all of our technicians are highly trained professionals. We take training seriously – each of our techs completes over 125 hours of training every year to stay up-to-date on the latest HVAC and plumbing technologies and best practices. Our team holds various certifications (for example, many of our HVAC techs are NATE-certified, and our plumbers are state-certified). We also make sure our staff passes background checks and is vetted for quality and professionalism. When you invite PV into your home, you can trust that the person doing the work is knowledgeable, experienced, and will treat you and your property with respect.

A: Great question – proper sizing of an HVAC system is critical for performance and efficiency, and it’s something we take very seriously. When you’re getting a new system from PV, we don’t just guess or go by rule of thumb; we perform a thorough load calculation (Manual J) as part of our evaluation. This calculation takes into account your home’s square footage, insulation levels, windows, orientation, number of occupants, and more to determine how much heating or cooling capacity your home actually needs. By doing this scientific analysis, we ensure we recommend a system that is just the right size – not too small and not too large. Our focus on proper design means you get a system that will run at optimal efficiency, provide even temperatures, and last longer. We also pair the indoor and outdoor components correctly so they work in harmony. Many people don’t realize how important sizing and design are for HVAC, but at PV we’ve built our reputation on doing it right. We’d be happy to show you the load calc results and explain why a particular size unit is recommended for your home. With us, you can be confident your new HVAC system will be perfectly tailored to your home’s needs.

A: Yes. Our technicians are trained to service all major HVAC brands and models. It doesn’t matter who made your furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, or water heater – we have the know-how to fix and maintain it. We commonly work on systems from Carrier, Trane, Lennox, Rheem, Goodman, American Standard, Bryant, York, Mitsubishi, and many more. Even if your unit is older or a less common brand, chances are we’ve seen it (and have access to the necessary parts). We also honor manufacturers’ warranties for repairs if applicable. So, you don’t need to worry about calling a special dealer for your specific brand – PV can handle it. In short, whatever equipment you have, our goal is to keep it running its best!

A: Yes, we love helping our customers take advantage of rebates and promotions to save money! Right now, one of the most exciting opportunities is the Georgia Home Energy Rebate program, which offers hefty rebates for upgrading to high-efficiency HVAC systems. Homeowners can get around $8,000 off a new heating & cooling system through these state-backed rebates. In fact, if you combine an HVAC upgrade with other energy improvements like insulation and duct sealing, you could qualify for up to $16,000 in total rebates – a huge incentive to improve your home’s efficiency. PV Heating, Cooling & Plumbing is a state-approved contractor in this program, and we will absolutely help you determine your eligibility and handle the paperwork to maximize your savings. Aside from government rebates, we also occasionally have seasonal specials or discounts on certain services. Additionally, manufacturers sometimes offer promotions or cashback on new systems, and we’ll pass those along to you. Between rebates, our flexible financing options, and efficient new equipment that lowers your utility bills, there are many ways we strive to make your investment more affordable. Feel free to talk to us about current deals – we’ll make sure you’re informed of all opportunities to save money on your HVAC or plumbing project.