Once a month is a good rule of thumb for most households, however the answer can vary depending on the filter size and how much dirt, pet dander/fur, and other contaminants. Checking your filter on a regular basis can help you determine when your filter is dirty and create a schedule for changing it.

In most cases, yes. It is recommended to replace both units at the same time when one unit fails. This is due to a variety of reasons. First, if one unit has failed, the other unit is likely close in age and developing problems as well. Second, not replacing both units can result in reduced efficiency and poor performance due to the units being made to operate as a matched set. If you replace one unit but not the other, you’re likely only delaying the inevitable failure of the second unit and paying higher energy bills at the same time.

Additionally, replacing the units as a set means that your new units will be covered under warranty, and you won’t have to cover the full cost of repairs during the warranty period.

Yes! Every unit should have a maintenance inspection annually, one on the furnace in the fall and one on the AC unit in spring. While parts can fail at any time with or without maintenance, having an inspection done each season is a good way to get ahead of any potential issues, prolong unit life, and ensure safe and proper operation of the unit. Regularly maintaining your units also ensures that your warranty stays valid. If a unit is not regularly maintained, warranty can be denied if the failure of the part/unit is due to improper maintenance.

Different brands have different recommendations for their outdoor units. Some brands prefer the outdoor unit to be covered while others do not. You can check by reading the unit manual, contacting the manufacturer or your local HVAC service provider to see if your unit should be covered.

There are many reasons a unit could freeze up. When your unit is frozen, you will likely not be able to feel any air coming through your vents. Before calling a technician, check your filters. If the filter is dirty, replace the filter and allow the unit to thaw before turning it on again. If the filter is not dirty and the unit is frozen, you will need a technician. The unit could be low on refrigerant, have a clogged evaporator coil, a faulty blower motor or a number of other issues that only a technician can diagnose and repair.

This can be indicative of an air flow issue in your home. Your ductwork may be improperly sized or have other air flow related issues with your unit. Call your HVAC service provider to identify the source of the problem and offer possible solutions.

Indoor air quality can be improved in a number of ways. Duct cleanings can remove contaminants from your ductwork, allowing for better air flow and air quality in the home. There are also several products that can be added to your home or equipment that increase the quality of your indoor air. These products include equipment like humidifiers, dehumidifiers, media cabinets with better filters, UV lights, air scrubbers and other air cleaners. Talk to your technician to see what product or service might be right for your home.

Duct cleaning removes dust, dirt, and other debris from ductwork that would act as speedbumps for air flow. Removing these obstacles allows for improvement to the efficiency of your unit due to more streamlined airflow. It can also help with allergies or other respiratory issues for those who are sensitive to dust, pollen, hair and other indoor pollutants.

Yes. You can check the condition of your filter – restricted air flow can cause a furnace to overheat or a coil to freeze. Additionally, make sure all vents are uncovered so the unit can push and pull air efficiently. You can also check your thermostat batteries if your thermostat is battery powered.

Covenant Heating & Air offers financing options for just about any budget. All financing is based off of approved credit. Speak with our sales representative for more information.

You should consider replacing your water heater if it is more than 10 years old, as this is the average lifespan of a water heater. Additionally, if you are experiencing any issues such as rusty water, strange noises, reduced hot water supply, sudden increase in energy bills, or leaks, these may be signs that your water heater needs to be replaced.

The answer depends on the hardness of your water. If you have hard water in your home, mineral buildup can be harmful to your pipes and appliances. The buildup can clog pipes, faucets and appliances as well as leave mineral residue on surfaces. A water softener can protect your pipes and appliances from that buildup, extending the life of the appliances and other plumbing, as well as improve soap lathering and keep your skin and hair feeling softer when you shower or wash yours hands.

The answer depends on what is in your water. The best course of action is to call your local plumbing service provider to collect a sample of your water and send it to the health department for analysis. This will provide you with a breakdown of what is in your water and will help you decide if you need a filtration system and what kind of system to install.

Regular maintenance, inspecting your plumbing routinely, being proactive with small leaks, being mindful of what goes down your drains, and knowing when to call a professional are the best ways to save both your time and money. Allowing your licensed plumber to perform maintenance, repairs and installations can prevent future issues like water damage and burst pipes that can be caused by DIY repairs and replacements.   

This can be a sign of a clogged main drain. Contact your local licensed plumber right away.

Insulating your pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, crawlspaces and attics can help with this issue. Additionally, letting the water drip slightly to keep the water flowing on particularly cold days/nights can prevent freezing.

A sudden spike in your bill can be a sign of a hidden leak. Even if you don’t see water anywhere, it can leak into walls, under floors, or in your yard. Additionally, improperly functioning toilets can cause the water to run constantly, raising the price of your water bill.