FAQ

Commonly asked hvac questions... answered by phil's heating and air

  • How often should I service my HVAC system?

    We recommend servicing your HVAC system twice a year—once in the spring for your cooling system and again in the fall for your heating system. Routine maintenance improves efficiency, extends the life of your system, and helps catch small issues before they turn into expensive repairs.


    ๐Ÿ‘‰ According to the U.S. Department of Energy, well-maintained HVAC systems can improve efficiency by up to 15%.

  • How long does an HVAC system typically last?

    On average, HVAC systems last:

    • Furnaces: 15–20 years
    • Air Conditioners & Heat Pumps: 10–15 years
    • Ductless Mini-Splits: 12–20 years

    Factors such as usage, maintenance, climate, and unit quality play a major role. In East Tennessee's humid climate, systems may experience faster wear without proper upkeep.


    ๐Ÿ“Š ENERGY STAR recommends replacing systems over 10 years old with high-efficiency models to save up to 20% on heating and cooling costs.


  • What size HVAC system do I need for my home or business?

    The proper size depends on square footage, ceiling height, insulation, number of occupants, windows, and usage. A “Manual J Load Calculation” should be performed to determine the right capacity—bigger is not always better.


    Oversized units lead to short-cycling and inefficiency, while undersized systems will struggle to maintain comfort.


    ๐Ÿข For example, a 2,000 sq. ft. home typically needs a system rated at 3 to 3.5 tons, but this varies by property.

  • What are the benefits of upgrading to an energy-efficient HVAC system?

    High-efficiency systems:

    • Reduce energy bills by up to 30%
    • Improve indoor air quality
    • Qualify for rebates and tax credits
    • Operate more quietly and reliably

    ๐Ÿ’ธ Homeowners may save hundreds annually. The TVA EnergyRight program currently offers up to $2,800 in rebates> for qualifying upgrades in the Johnson City, TN area.

  • How do I know if I need HVAC repairs or a full system replacement?

    If your system:

    • Is over 10–15 years old
    • Needs frequent or costly repairs
    • Struggles to maintain consistent temperatures
    • Produces strange smells or noises
    • Causes rising utility bills

    …it may be time for a replacement. However, if the issue is isolated and your system is relatively new, repairs may be the better route.


    ๐Ÿ”ง Our team can diagnose your system and give honest advice—plus we apply TVA rebates to qualifying repairs as well.

  • Are there rebates or financing options available for HVAC installations?

    Yes! Phil’s Heating & Air works with:

    • TVA EnergyRight Rebates (up to $2,800 for qualifying systems)
    • U.S. federal tax credits on high-efficiency models
    • Goodleap Financing, offering monthly payment plans for installations and replacements

    We’ll help you find every possible savings opportunity and make your investment affordable.

  • What is a SEER rating, and why does it matter?

    SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and measures the cooling efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps.

    • The higher the SEER, the more efficient the unit.
    • The current minimum SEER rating for new units in Tennessee is 14 SEER, but modern systems can go up to 20+ SEER.

    ๐Ÿ“‰ A 16-SEER unit uses about 13% less energy than a 14-SEER model. Over 10 years, that can equal thousands in savings.

  • How can I improve my indoor air quality (IAQ)?

    Phil’s Heating & Air offers solutions like:

    • HEPA filters and UV lights
    • Whole-home air purifiers
    • Humidity control systems
    • Duct cleaning and sealing
    • Smart thermostats with air quality sensors
    • Poor IAQ can aggravate allergies, asthma, and illnesses—especially in workplaces or older buildings.

    ๐Ÿฅ According to the EPA, indoor air can be 2–5 times more polluted than outdoor air.

  • Can you install HVAC systems in commercial or industrial buildings?

    Absolutely. We specialize in Commercial HVAC and Industrial HVAC services, including:

    • Rooftop units
    • VRF/VRV systems
    • Zoned climate control
    • Exhaust and ventilation solutions
    • Scheduled maintenance for business-critical operations

    We serve everything from office buildings and warehouses to factories and churches throughout Johnson City, TN and the Tri-Cities area.

  • Do you offer emergency HVAC services?

    Yes! We offer fast, next-day service and after-hours availability for emergencies. Whether your system goes down in extreme heat or frigid temps, Phil’s Heating & Air is just a phone call away.


    ๐Ÿ“ž Call us at (423) 741-5459> for urgent HVAC repairs in Johnson City, TN and surrounding areas.