FAQs

Your heating and cooling system keeps your home comfortable through hot summers and cooler winter weather. Below are answers to common heating, air conditioning, heat pump, maintenance, and replacement questions we regularly answer from local homeowners.

HVAC Replacement FAQs

How long does an HVAC system last?

System life depends on the equipment type, installation quality, maintenance history, usage, sizing, and repair record. As a general guide, air conditioners and heat pumps often last about 12 to 15 years, while furnaces may last about 15 to 20 years.

Age alone does not determine whether replacement is necessary. Frequent repairs, poor comfort, declining efficiency, and major component failure also matter.

How much does HVAC replacement cost in Raleigh?

The cost of a new HVAC system depends on the equipment type, efficiency level, home size, system sizing, ductwork condition, electrical requirements, and installation complexity.

We provide free estimates for HVAC installation and replacement, so you can receive options and pricing in just a matter of minutes. Simply fill out our HVAC Install Quote form, and a member of our team—not a computer—will provide a personalized estimate based on your home and heating and cooling needs.

How often should my HVAC system be serviced?

Most Raleigh homeowners should schedule professional HVAC maintenance twice a year: once before the summer cooling season and once before the winter heating season.

The spring visit helps prepare your air conditioner for hot, humid weather, while the fall visit helps ensure your furnace is ready when temperatures drop. Regular maintenance can support efficient performance, reduce unnecessary system strain, and identify small concerns before they become more expensive repairs.

With Jay’s Comfort Plan, you receive two scheduled maintenance visits each year—one for your AC and one for your heating system—plus priority scheduling, preferred pricing, repair discounts, and a complimentary annual ductwork inspection.

What are A2L refrigerants?

A2L refrigerants are newer refrigerants used in modern air conditioning and heat-pump equipment. They have a lower global warming potential than older refrigerant options and require updated equipment designs and safety procedures.

If you are planning an HVAC replacement, our A2L-certified technicians can help ensure your new system is installed properly.

Does Jay’s Heating and Cooling offer HVAC financing?

Yes. We offer financing through Hearth for qualifying customers. Financing can help make a needed HVAC replacement more manageable.

AC FAQs

Why is my AC not cooling my house?

Start by checking that the thermostat is set to “Cool,” the temperature is set below the current indoor temperature, and make sure your air filters are clean. Also make sure supply vents, returns, and the outdoor unit are not blocked.

If your AC is still running without cooling your home, the issue could involve airflow, a frozen coil, refrigerant, electrical components, or the compressor. If you’ve tried the basics and your home still isn’t cooling, it’s time to call our experienced HVAC technicians to diagnose the problem and get your AC back to keeping your home cool and comfortable.

Why is my AC blowing warm air?

Check the thermostat settings, filters, and outdoor unit first. Make sure the fan is set to “Auto” not “On,” since the fan may circulate room-temperature air between cooling cycles.

If warm air continues, turn the system off and schedule service. Running an AC with a frozen coil, refrigerant issue, or mechanical problem can lead to additional damage.

Heating FAQs

Why is my furnace blowing cold air?

First, make sure the thermostat is set to “Heat” and the temperature is above the current room temperature. You can also check the air filter, HVAC breaker, furnace power switch, and whether vents and return grilles are blocked.

If the issue continues, it’s time to schedule a service visit. Cold air may be related to an ignition issue, blower problem, electrical component, safety switch, or fuel-supply concern.

Why won’t my furnace turn on?

Check that the thermostat has power, is set to “Heat,” and is calling for heat. Then check the thermostat batteries, breaker, furnace power switch, air filter, and any error codes on the system. If the furnace still will not start, it’s time to schedule professional service. Our Nate-certified technicians can safely diagnose ignition, electrical, blower, fuel, or safety-control problems.

Why is my furnace running but not heating my house?

A dirty filter, blocked airflow, thermostat issue, blower trouble, ductwork problem, or equipment malfunction can keep your furnace from heating effectively.
Replace the filter if it’s dirty and make sure vents and returns are open. If your home still is not reaching the set temperature, contact us to schedule a service visit.

Should I repair or replace my furnace?

Furnace repair may make sense when your furnace is relatively new, the issue is minor, and the system is otherwise reliable. Furnace replacement may be the better investment for an older furnace with frequent breakdowns, declining efficiency, major component failure, or ongoing comfort problems.

Heat Pump FAQs

What is a heat pump?

A heat pump provides both heating and cooling. In summer, it moves heat out of your home. In winter, it reverses the process and moves heat indoors to help keep your home comfortable.

Is a heat pump a good choice for a Raleigh home?

Often, yes. Raleigh’s hot summers and generally moderate winters can make heat pumps an effective option for efficient heating and cooling.

The best choice depends on your home’s size, ductwork, insulation, comfort needs, current system, and budget. We can help you compare your options for heat pump repair, replacement, and installation.

Why is my heat pump blowing cold air in heating mode?

Heat-pump air often feels less hot than furnace air, which can be normal. But if the air feels truly cold or your home is not warming up, there may be a problem with the thermostat, filter, defrost cycle, refrigerant, airflow, outdoor unit, or auxiliary heat.

Start with the thermostat and filter. If the system still is not keeping up, you will need to schedule a heat pump repair.

Need HVAC Help in Raleigh?

Jay’s Heating and Cooling provides HVAC repair, air conditioning service, furnace repair, heat pump services, seasonal maintenance, and HVAC installation and replacement throughout Raleigh, Wake Forest, and the surrounding areas.

Whether you need service, maintenance, or help planning for a future upgrade, contact us to schedule service or request a free HVAC installation estimate.