HVAC FAQ

We proudly serve the following areas in the North Carolina:

• Raleigh, NC
• Clayton, NC
• Smithfield, NC
• Fuquay Varina, NC
• Holly Springs, NC

We offer a comprehensive range of services, including:

• AC Installations
• AC Replacement
• AC Repairs
• AC Maintenance
• Emergency AC Services
• AC Financing
• Furnace Installations
• Furnace Replacement
• Furnace Repairs
• Furnace Maintenance
• Emergency Heating Services
• Heating Financing
• Electric and Gas Furnace Installations and Repairs
• Heat Pump Installations and Repairs
• Gas and Wood Fireplace Installations and Repairs

Yes, we offer both Emergency AC Services and Emergency Heating Services to address urgent needs 24/7.

In case of an emergency – call us directly.

We offer financing options for both AC and heating services to help our customers manage their expenses more effectively. Contact us for detailed information about our financing options.

We handle both electric and gas furnace installations and repairs.

We specialize in the installation and repair of both gas and wood fireplaces.

We pride ourselves on delivering top-notch services with a focus on customer satisfaction. Our team of professionals is committed to ensuring your heating and cooling systems are efficient and reliable.

You can message us directly through our contact page or call us at (919) 520-9167 to schedule a service or for any inquiries.

Yes, we provide free non-obligatory estimates for any of our services. This includes quotes for spare parts and new units for sale. Our goal is to offer transparent and competitive pricing, ensuring you have all the information needed to make informed decisions.

Absolutely! We stand behind the quality of our work, and as such, we provide a warranty on all our manual labor and services. This commitment underscores our dedication to ensuring our customers are completely satisfied with the work we perform. If you have any specific questions about the terms or duration of our warranties, please reach out to us for detailed information.

Financing in HVAC allows customers to purchase or repair their heating and cooling systems without making an upfront full payment. Instead, they can pay for the services over a period of time, typically in monthly installments. This can be particularly helpful for those facing unexpected repairs or replacements. At Rudd’s HVAC:

• We offer financing options for both AC and heating services.
• Customers can choose from a range of financing plans to find one that fits their budget.
• The interest rates and terms will vary based on the chosen plan and creditworthiness.
• Our team can guide you through the financing application process and answer any questions you might have.
• Once approved, you can proceed with the service, and the repayment will start as per the agreed terms.

It’s essential to read and understand the financing terms before committing. If you have any doubts or questions, please reach out to our team for clarity.

Yes, an AC not working, especially during peak summer months, can be considered an emergency due to the discomfort and potential health risks associated with extreme heat. At Rudd’s HVAC, we understand the urgency of such situations. Factors that can make a non-functioning AC an emergency include:

• Extremely high temperatures that can pose a health risk, especially for the elderly, children, or those with certain medical conditions.
• Presence of vulnerable individuals in the home, such as infants or people with respiratory issues.
• Extended duration of the AC malfunction, especially if the forecast predicts continued heat.

If you’re experiencing a sudden AC breakdown or decreased efficiency during critical times, please contact our Emergency AC Services immediately. Our team will prioritize your call to ensure your home returns to a comfortable temperature as soon as possible.

The specific temperature that constitutes an AC emergency can vary based on individual comfort levels, health concerns, and the local climate. However, at Rudd’s HVAC, we generally consider the following guidelines:

• Indoor temperatures exceeding 85°F (29°C) for an extended period, especially during peak daytime hours.
• When the indoor temperature is significantly higher than the set temperature on your thermostat and the AC unit isn’t cooling the space effectively.
• Any temperature that poses a health or safety risk to residents, especially vulnerable individuals like the elderly, infants, or those with certain medical conditions.

It’s essential to remember that the actual temperature might be subjective, and what’s comfortable for one person might not be for another. If you feel the temperature in your home is reaching unsafe or unbearable levels due to AC malfunctions, it’s best to treat it as an emergency and contact us for immediate assistance.

A heating emergency refers to situations where the heating system in a home or building fails to function correctly, leading to uncomfortably cold or potentially hazardous conditions. At Rudd’s HVAC, we consider the following scenarios indicative of a heating emergency:

• Indoor temperatures dropping to near or below freezing (32°F or 0°C), especially if they persist for extended periods.
• When the indoor temperature is significantly lower than the set temperature on your thermostat, and the heating system isn’t warming the space effectively.
• The presence of ice or frost inside the home due to extremely low temperatures.
• Any temperature conditions that pose a health or safety risk to residents, especially vulnerable individuals like the elderly, infants, or those with certain medical conditions.
• Signs of potential hazards, such as strange odors or noises from the furnace, which could indicate gas leaks or other serious issues.

In any of these situations, it’s imperative to treat the situation as an emergency and seek professional help immediately. Cold environments can lead to hypothermia and other health complications, so always prioritize safety.

The specific temperature that constitutes a heating emergency can vary based on individual comfort levels, health concerns, and the local climate. However, at Rudd’s HVAC, we generally consider the following guidelines:

• Indoor temperatures dropping to 55°F (13°C) or below for an extended period.
• When the indoor temperature is much lower than the set temperature on your thermostat and the heating system isn’t warming the space effectively.
• Any temperature that poses a health or safety risk to residents, especially vulnerable individuals like the elderly, infants, or those with certain medical conditions.
• Temperatures nearing freezing (32°F or 0°C) inside the home, especially if there’s a risk of pipes freezing or other property damage.

It’s crucial to remember that comfort levels can be subjective, and what’s comfortable for one person might not be for another. However, if you feel the temperature in your home is reaching unsafe or dangerously cold levels due to heating malfunctions, it’s best to treat it as an emergency and contact us for immediate assistance.

Several signs can indicate that your AC unit is nearing the end of its lifespan:

• Age of the Unit: Most AC units last between 10 to 15 years. If yours is within this range or older, it might be nearing its end.
• Increased Energy Bills: A sudden spike in your energy bills can indicate that the unit is working harder to achieve the same cooling, suggesting decreased efficiency.
• Frequent Repairs: If your AC unit requires repairs often, it might be more cost-effective to replace it.
• Inconsistent Temperatures: If some rooms are colder than others or if the unit struggles to maintain a consistent temperature, it might be failing.
• Unusual Noises: Strange sounds like grinding, squealing, or banging can indicate serious internal issues.
• Odors: Unpleasant smells, such as a burning or musty odor, can signal problems.

While a professional diagnosis is always recommended, here are some signs that your AC might be broken or needs freon (refrigerant):

• Warm Air: If the AC is blowing warm air, it might be low on refrigerant or have a compressor issue.
• Hissing or Bubbling Noises: These sounds can indicate a refrigerant leak.
• Ice Buildup: Ice on the evaporator coil or the refrigerant lines suggests low refrigerant levels.
• High Energy Bills: A sudden increase in energy costs can indicate that the system is working harder due to low refrigerant.
• Frequent Cycles: If the AC turns on and off frequently, it could be a sign of low refrigerant or other issues.

On average, a well-maintained central air conditioner should last about 10 to 15 years. Factors that can influence this lifespan include the quality of the unit, how often it’s used, the climate in the area, and how regularly it’s maintained. To maximize the life of your AC, it’s crucial to have regular maintenance checks and address any issues promptly.

The time it takes to replace an HVAC system can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of the installation, the type of system being installed, and any additional work that might be needed (such as ductwork modifications). On average:

• Simple Replacement: If it’s a straightforward swap of old equipment for new, without any major modifications, the replacement can often be completed in a single day.

• Complex Installation: For larger homes or systems that require significant modifications, additional components, or extensive ductwork changes, the installation might take 2-3 days or even longer.

• Additional Factors: The presence of multiple heating or cooling zones, the need for new thermostats, or the integration of advanced features (like home automation systems) can also extend the installation time.

It’s always best to consult with your HVAC professional, in this case, Rudd’s HVAC, for a more accurate estimate based on your specific circumstances.

Yes, fireplaces, whether wood-burning, gas, or electric, need regular servicing to ensure they operate safely and efficiently. Here’s why:

• Safety: Regular servicing can help identify and address potential hazards such as creosote buildup in wood-burning fireplaces or gas leaks in gas fireplaces.
• Efficiency: A clean and well-maintained fireplace will operate more efficiently, providing better warmth.
• Prolonged Lifespan: Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of the fireplace and its components.
• Aesthetic: Cleaning and servicing can keep your fireplace looking its best.

For wood-burning fireplaces, annual inspections and cleaning by a professional chimney sweep are recommended. Gas fireplaces should be inspected annually to ensure all components are functioning correctly and safely. Electric fireplaces require less maintenance but should still be checked for any electrical issues.

Heat pumps offer several benefits:

• Efficiency: Heat pumps are highly efficient as they transfer heat instead of generating it, often resulting in lower energy bills.
• Cooling and Heating: Heat pumps can both heat and cool a home, making them versatile for year-round comfort.
• Safety: Unlike combustion-based heating systems, heat pumps don’t produce flames or emit carbon monoxide.
• Environmentally Friendly: They have a smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional heating systems.
• Cost-Effective: Over time, the energy savings from a heat pump can offset its initial cost.
• Space Saving: Many heat pump models are compact and don’t require extensive ductwork.
• Consistent Comfort: Heat pumps can provide consistent temperatures and improved air quality.

Absolutely! We cater to the unique needs of commercial customers, offering a comprehensive range of heating and cooling services. This includes commercial AC, commercial refrigerators, and commercial heating systems. Recognizing the critical nature of HVAC in business operations, we also offer emergency 24/7 services specifically tailored for commercial HVAC needs, ensuring minimal disruption to your business.

A commercial HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system is designed to regulate the climate, ensure proper ventilation, and maintain air quality in commercial buildings such as offices, retail spaces, warehouses, and more. These systems are typically larger and more complex than residential HVACs, catering to the specific needs of commercial spaces, which often have larger square footage and different usage patterns.

Commercial HVAC preventive maintenance involves scheduled inspections, cleaning, and servicing of HVAC components to ensure they operate efficiently and to prevent potential breakdowns. This routine maintenance can:

• Extend the lifespan of the HVAC system.
• Improve energy efficiency, leading to reduced operational costs.
• Prevent costly breakdowns and downtime.
• Enhance the comfort of building occupants.
• Maintain optimal air quality.

By proactively addressing potential issues, businesses can ensure a consistent and comfortable environment and avoid unexpected repair costs.

Yes, there are several key differences between residential and commercial HVAC:

• Size and Complexity: Commercial systems are often larger and more complex due to the requirements of bigger spaces and varied usage patterns.
• Placement: While residential units are often ground-based or on rooftops, commercial units are typically rooftop installations to save space.
• Drainage: Commercial systems have complex drainage setups, often using multiple pipes and pans, whereas residential systems typically use a single pan.
• Equipment and Design: Commercial HVACs are modular in design, allowing for customization and scalability. Residential systems are usually standalone units.
• Maintenance: Due to their complexity and the higher stakes involved (like business disruptions), commercial HVACs may require more frequent and specialized maintenance.

Duct cleaning refers to the process of cleaning the various components of your heating and cooling system, including the supply and return air ducts, registers, grilles, diffusers, heat exchangers, cooling coils, fan motor, fan housing, and the air handling unit. Here’s why it’s essential:

• Air Quality: Over time, dust, pollen, pet dander, and other pollutants can accumulate in your ducts. Cleaning them helps improve indoor air quality.

• System Efficiency: Clean ducts allow the HVAC system to operate more efficiently, potentially lowering energy costs and extending the system’s life.

• Health Concerns: Ducts can also harbor mold, bacteria, and other microorganisms, which can exacerbate allergies and respiratory conditions.

• Odor Removal: Cleaning the ducts can help remove musty and unpleasant odors caused by mold, rodents, or insects.

For optimal results, consider having your ducts inspected regularly and cleaned as necessary by professionals like Rudd’s HVAC.

The recommended frequency for duct cleaning can vary based on several factors, but as a general guideline, it’s advisable to have your ducts cleaned every 3 to 5 years. However, certain situations might necessitate more frequent cleaning:

• After a Home Renovation: If your home has been remodeled, especially if there was asbestos abatement, lead paint removal, or significant dust, clean the ducts after the work is complete.

• Pest Infestations: If you’ve had an infestation of rodents or insects, it’s crucial to clean your ducts to ensure no contaminants or debris remain.

• Allergies: If residents are experiencing unexplained allergies or respiratory issues, checking and cleaning the ducts can help alleviate the symptoms.

• Visible Mold Growth: If there’s mold visible inside your ducts or on other components of your heating and cooling system, they should be cleaned immediately.

• Excessive Dust: If you notice dust or debris blowing from the vents, or if the vent grills are dusty, it’s a sign that the ducts need cleaning.

Remember, while regular duct cleaning is beneficial, it’s equally essential to ensure it’s done correctly and by professionals like Rudd’s HVAC to avoid potential damage or contamination.

How we determine your AC repair quote:
The cost of repairing your air conditioner is influenced primarily by two components: the time required for the repairs and the price of any necessary parts. Our process begins with a thorough inspection of your air conditioning unit to pinpoint the exact problem. A significant aspect that affects your final repair bill is the cost of parts that need either fixing or replacing. Should these parts be affordable and simple to install, you can expect a lower repair cost. However, the overall expense can significantly increase based on the number of parts that are malfunctioning and the complexity involved in installing or repairing them.