FAQs

Ductless Mini Splits

Who can benefit from a ductless mini split system?

Homes without existing ducts benefit from a ductless mini split system. They are cost-effective and energy efficient alternative to central air.

What’s the lifespan of a mini split system?

With good maintenance and depending on usage, a ductless mini split system can last between 12-20 years. To ensure a long life span, have your system regularly cleaned and inspected.

Do mini split systems devalue your home?

No. In fact, it can increase its value as the system is seen as a desirable feature because of their energy efficiency and the ability to heat or cool individual zones in the home. This is a significant selling point for prospective buyers!

Can a ductless mini-split system heat and cool my whole house?

Yes, with a multi-zone system, a mini-split can provide heating and cooling for your whole home. However, it’s commonly used for hard-to-condition spaces, specific rooms, and additions.

Maintenance Plans

Does Apex Heating & Air offer maintenance plans?

Yes, we do! See all the details about our maintenance plans here.

Package AC

What is a package AC system?

This system combines all the major components—compressor, condenser, evaporator, and air handler–into one outdoor unit. It provides cooling to an entire home or building.

Can a package AC provide both heating and cooling?

Yes. Many package units are all-in-one heating and cooling systems, especially gas/electric models or heat pump versions.

How does a package AC differ from a split system?

With a traditional split system, there is an outdoor unit and an indoor air handler. A package unit contains all the components in one unit, either on the rooftop or next to the home or building.

What types of package units are available?

Package AC which provides cooling only. Gas/electric package units which provide AC and gas heat, heat pump package units which provide cooling and electric heat, dual-fuel systems which provide electric cooling and gas heating.

Where is a package AC unit installed?

Usually the roof for commercial buildings. For residential, it’s installed on a slab or platform next to the house.

Package Commercial HVAC Systems

What is a package commercial HVAC system?

It’s an all-in-one heating and cooling unit where all components are housed in one single cabinet. It’s usually mounted on the roof of a building but can also be installed on a concrete slab next to the building.

What’s the advantages of a package HVAC system for commercial buildings?

This unit saves valuable space, is easier to install and maintain, has lower upfront costs as compared to some split systems. Package HVAC systems provide both cooling and heating in one unit. Plus, many new models offer high-efficiency options with SEER ratings of 14+. Some include variable speed technology and smart controls for improved energy savings.

How long do commercial package HVAC systems last?

With proper maintenance, most last between 12-20 years. Lifespan can be influenced by system workload, how often it’s maintained, and climate conditions.

What kind of maintenance do package HVAC systems require?

Regular maintenance is the lifeblood of your system! Get seasonal inspections, change filters, clean the coil, check refrigerant levels and inspect the belt and motor.

Package Heat Pump Systems

What is a package heat pump system?

It’s an all-in-one heating and cooling unit that provides both heating and cooling using electricity. No furnace is needed.

Are package heat pumps efficient in colder climates?

The older models of package heat pumps struggled in cold weather. Today, modern high efficiency package heat pumps perform well in temperatures as low as 20°F. In very cold regions, a dual-fuel system or electric heater are recommended as a backup.

What are the advantages of a package heat pump?

Because no indoor unit is required, package heat pumps are space savers! They are also energy efficient for heating and cooling. Utility bills are lowered as compared to electric resistance heating, and they operate quietly.

Does a package heat pump require ductwork?

Like a traditional split system, a package heat pump uses ductwork to distribute air throughout the home.

What maintenance does a package heat pump require?

The air filter needs to be changed every 1-3 months. The coil must be cleaned and refrigerant levels checked. To keep your system running optimally, annual professional inspections are recommended.

Residential Package HVAC Systems

What is a residential package HVAC system?

When all components of an HVAC system are packaged into a single outdoor unit, it is called a residential package HVAC system. Typically, these units are installed outside of the home or on the roof.

How does a split system differ from a package unit?

A split system has an indoor and an outdoor unit. A package system houses all the components in one unit—the compressor, condenser, evaporator, and air handler.

What are the advantages of a package HVAC system?

Package units save space, and they are easier to install, especially if your home doesn’t have a crawlspace or basement. Installation costs can be lower, and maintenance is simplified since all components are housed in one unit.

What are the disadvantages of a package unit?

They may have a slightly lower energy efficiency than traditional split systems. With exposure to weather, the lifespan can be reduced if not properly maintained. You may experience more noise outside.

How long do residential package HVAC systems last?

The average lifespan with proper maintenance and service is 12-15 years. Climate and usage can affect their lifespan. We recommend servicing your unit twice yearly, spring and fall, to keep the unit running efficiently, and to catch any potential issues.

Ducted Mini-Splits

What is a ducted mini-split system?

It’s a type of HVAC system that uses short runs of ductwork to distribute cooling and heating from a central indoor air handler which is connected to an outdoor condenser. A ducted mini-split system combines the efficiency of ductless HVAC systems with the discreetness of ducted airflow.

How is a ducted mini-split system different from the traditional central HVAC system?

Ducted mini-splits use shorter, more targeted ducts. Traditional HVAC systems have longer duct runs. Ducted mini-splits are also usually more energy-efficient, quieter, and zoned for comfort.

How is a ducted mini-split different from a ductless mini-split?

Ductless mini-splits are either wall or ceiling mounted indoor units. They can serve one room or several rooms, even a whole house. A ducted mini-split uses small ducts to serve multiple rooms through the use of a concealed air handler. This offers a more traditional appearance without visible indoor units.

What are the benefits of a ducted mini-split system?

With proper maintenance and servicing, these systems can last 15-20 years. Besides energy efficiency, zoned temperature control, quiet operation and minimal visible equipment, installation is flexible, serving multiple rooms, as well as the whole house.

Forced Air Furnace

What is a forced air furnace?

A forced air furnace heats your home using air as the heat transfer medium. It heats air inside the furnace and then distributes the heat throughout the home through ducts and vents.

How does a forced air furnace work?

It heats air using either a gas burner, electric heating element, or oil burner. Then a blower fan pushes the heated air through the ductwork and throughout the house. A forced air furnace can also be used with a central air conditioner for cooling.

What are the benefits for a forced air furnace?

Fast, even heating! Plus, it can easily be combined with central air conditioning. Forced air furnaces offer affordable installation in homes with existing ductwork. And, when paired with air filtration, can improve the indoor air quality of your home. With proper maintenance and servicing, a forced air furnace can last 15-20 years.

How often should I have my forced air furnace serviced?

We recommend a professional inspection and tune up annually, especially before winter begins.

Indoor Air Quality—EnviroWise System

What is EvniroWise® system?

EvniroWise® is American Standard’s line of environmentally friendly HVAC solutions which include, geothermal systems, air exchangers, energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) and whole home dehumidifiers. All are designed to improve indoor air quality and efficiency.

How does EvniroWise® geothermal system work?

To transfer heat into the home in winter and remove heat in the summer, EvniroWise® uses stable temperatures underground. This offers high efficiency and lower energy costs.

What are the benefits of EvniroWise® products?

EvniroWise® products offer lower utility bills, improved air quality, durable, long lasting systems, and they are environmentally friendly. Additionally, many EvniroWise® geothermal and ventilation systems qualify for federal tax credits and local utility rebates. 

What’s more, energy recovery ventilators and dehumidifiers can integrate with existing HVAC systems. Geothermal units require special installation.

Indoor Air Quality—AccuClean™

What is AccuClean™?

This is American Standard’s whole home air filtration system. It removes 99.98% of airborne particles such as pet dander, mold, dust, pollen, bacteria, and some viruses.

How does AccuClean™ work?

AccuClean™ uses an electronic filtration process that charges airborne particles and captures them in a reusable collection cell. This filter captures particles as small as 0.1 microns which is far superior to standard 1-inch filters. It is also up to 100x more effective than a 1-inch throwaway filter. The filter also improves airflow efficiency while filtering more effectively. There is no need to replace AccuClean™ filters, but they should be cleaned every 6-12 months.

Can AccuClean™ help with asthma and allergies?

Yes because it captures those micro fine allergens and pollutants that standard thruway filters can’t. AccuClean™ is often recommended for those with allergies, asthma, or respiratory sensitivities. AccuClean™ is also certified to be ozone-free. That makes it safe for sensitive households.

Aprilaire Indoor Air Products

What is Aprilaire?

Aprilaire is a leading brand offering indoor air quality solutions including dehumidifiers, humidifiers, ventilation systems, thermostats, and air purifiers. The company is known for their high efficiency, durability, and the ability to capture fine particles many standard filters miss.

Can Aprilaire products help with asthma and allergies?

Yes. The company’s line of products significantly reduces airborne allergens, dust, mold spores, as well as pollutants. This creates a cleaner, healthier indoor environment.

What’s the difference between a portable air purifier and Aprilaire’s whole home air purifier?

Aprilaire’s whole home system is integrated into your HVAC ductwork which then filters air throughout the entire house.

How does an Aprilaire humidifier help with indoor air quality?

The humidifiers maintain indoor humidity levels between 30%-50%. This can prevent respiratory discomfort, static electricity, and prevent dry skin. It also protects wood floors and furniture and reduces the spread of airborne viruses.