Question 1

How can I make my AC system more energy efficient?

Accepted Answer

Make sure all air vents are open and unrestricted, get a programmable thermostat, get the system inspected and serviced by an authorized service provider twice per year, and change the filter regularly.

Question 2

Is regular air conditioning maintenance important?

Accepted Answer

Regular preventive maintenance can cut your cooling costs by as much as 15% and it will extend the life of your system. A properly serviced AC will also do a better job of dehumidifying your home and regular maintenance is a warranty requirement.

Question 3

How often should I change my AC filter?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the type of filter, some are meant to be cleaned or replaced once a month, others are designed to last up to 6 months. The conditions inside your home also play a big part, e.g. do you smoke in the house or have pets that shed.

Question 4

Is regular air conditioning maintenance important?

Accepted Answer

Regular preventive maintenance can cut your cooling costs by as much as 15% and it will extend the life of your system. A properly serviced AC will also do a better job of dehumidifying your home and regular maintenance is a warranty requirement.

Question 5

Should I install a programmable thermostat?

Accepted Answer

Used correctly, a programmable thermostat can cut your cooling costs by up to 25%.

Question 6

Should the thermostat fan be set to "auto" or "on"?

Accepted Answer

If you want to keep your cooling costs down, set the fan to “auto” so it only runs when it needs to in order to maintain the set temperature.

Question 7

When should I replace my AC system?

Accepted Answer

If your HVAC system is more than 10 years old, if it’s not cooling as well as it used to or if your electric bill is higher than it should be – it may be time for a new system.

Question 8

Do you offer residential AC service?

Accepted Answer

Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating has been providing residential repair, installation, and maintenance throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties since 2003.

Question 9

Do you offer commercial AC service?

Accepted Answer

Sean McCutcheon’s Air Conditioning and Heating has been providing commercial repair, installation, and maintenance throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties since 2003.

Question 10

How much does a new Air Conditioning system cost?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the size of your home and the type of unit. We would be glad to show you the different options and help you make the best decision for your budget and comfort needs.

Question 11

How do I know if I’m buying the right air conditioning system?

Accepted Answer

We understand that a new HVAC system is a big purchase so we encourage customers to get a second opinion so they feel comfortable with their decision and we’re always ready to provide a free second opinion.

Question 12

Do you offer emergency service?

Accepted Answer

Sean McCutcheon’s is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergency service, but if you call during regular business hours – you will save some money.

Question 13

Why do you charge more for emergency service?

Accepted Answer

Companies that don’t charge more for off-hour service are either desperate for work or they’re charging you emergency rates during regular hours.

Question 14

What is the average lifespan of an air conditioner?

Accepted Answer

Most HVAC systems last between 15 and 20 years. Regular preventive maintenance will keep your system running efficiently for as long as possible.

Question 15

Should I replace my old AC system if it still works?

Accepted Answer

If your system is more than 10 years old, a new AC system can be up to 60% more energy efficient so your old AC could be costing you more than it is worth.

Question 16

What temperature should I set my thermostat to?

Accepted Answer

For the lowest utility bill, set your thermostat to the highest temperature at which you are comfortable when you’re running the AC and the lowest temperature when you’re running the heat.

Question 17

What is the best air conditioning system?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your needs. At Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating, we pride ourselves on taking the time to educate our clients so they can choose the best system for their budget and comfort needs.

Question 18

What is SEER?

Accepted Answer

A higher SEER or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating means that your unit is more efficient. The minimum for new air conditioner is currently 13, but it can go as high as 21.

Question 19

What Is NATE?

Accepted Answer

NATE is the North American Technician Excellence. It is an independent, third-party, non-profit certification body for HVAC and HVAC/R technicians. Make sure the technician you hire is NATE certified.

Question 20

What is Ask The Seal?

Accepted Answer

The Seal performs nationwide criminal background and sex offender checks on the employees that interact with your property or family and it issues photo IDs confirming that these checks have taken place so you know who you’re letting into your home.

Question 21

How do I know if a contractor is licensed?

Accepted Answer

To ensure that you are working with a licensed contractor, visit www.myfloridalicense.com/dbpr and click the "verify a license" button at the bottom of the page.

Question 22

How do I know if my AC is running properly?

Accepted Answer

The best way to ensure peak efficiency is to have your AC system serviced by an authorized service provider twice per year. During a preventive maintenance visit, we’ll run diagnostics to ensure that your system is performing as it should.

Question 23

Can you install a central air conditioning system if I don’t have already have ductwork?

Accepted Answer

If you’re willing to invest in ductwork and make design allowances, the answer is probably yes, but there are more cost effective solutions, like mini splits, available today and we would be happy to discuss them with you.

Question 24

My AC just stopped working, what should I do?

Accepted Answer

Before calling for service, check your circuit breaker and make sure the filter isn’t clogged.

McCutcheon Air Conditioning and Heating Blog

Ceiling Fans

About the author

SMAC

Author's recent posts

Comments

S.M.A.C.

Air Conditioning Services

Air Conditioning Information

Legal

© 2025 Sean McCutcheon's Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Powered by Concept Digital Media