Frequently Asked Questions

General HVAC Questions

What is HVAC?

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It’s the technology used to control the temperature, humidity, and purity of the air inside your home or building.

How often should I have my HVAC system serviced?

We recommend a professional tune-up at least twice a year—once in the spring for your air conditioner and once in the fall for your furnace or heating system. This helps ensure optimal performance, efficiency, and longevity.

How long do HVAC systems typically last?

With proper maintenance, a typical HVAC system can last between 15 and 20 years. Regular tune-ups are key to extending its lifespan and preventing premature failure.

What is the difference between an air conditioner and a heat pump?

An air conditioner can only cool your home by removing heat and moving it outside. A heat pump can both cool and heat your home. In the summer, it works like an AC. In the winter, it reverses the flow of refrigerant to extract heat from the outside air and bring it inside.

Why is the size of my HVAC unit important?

An air conditioner can only cool your home by removing heat and moving it outside. A heat pump can both cool and heat your home. In the summer, it works like an AC. In the winter, it reverses the flow of refrigerant to extract heat from the outside air and bring it inside.

Products & Technology

What is a SEER rating?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It’s a measure of an air conditioner’s cooling efficiency. A higher SEER rating indicates a more energy-efficient unit, which can lead to lower utility bills.

What is a heat pump?

A heat pump is an HVAC system that provides both heating and cooling by moving heat. In the summer, it moves heat from inside your home to the outside; in the winter, it reverses the process, extracting heat from the outdoor air to warm your home.

What are the benefits of a smart thermostat?

Smart thermostats provide enhanced control and energy savings. They can be programmed to adjust temperatures automatically, can be controlled remotely from your phone, and can even learn your heating and cooling preferences. This helps reduce energy waste and lower your utility costs.

What is a mini-split system?

A mini-split, or ductless system, is a heating and cooling system that doesn’t use traditional ductwork. It consists of an outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor air handlers. Mini-splits are ideal for cooling additions to a home, converted attics, or older homes that lack ductwork.

What is the difference between a SEER and SEER2 rating?

Both are ratings of an air conditioner’s energy efficiency. SEER2 is a newer, more rigorous testing standard that accounts for factors like a home’s ductwork and static pressure, providing a more accurate real-world efficiency rating. A higher number for both ratings indicates a more efficient unit.

HVAC Services

What are the signs that my HVAC system needs a repair?

Look out for common signs like unusual noises (banging, hissing, or grinding), poor airflow, inconsistent temperatures throughout your home, strange odors, or a sudden spike in your energy bills.

Do you work on all brands of HVAC systems?

Yes. We service all major HVAC brands, including Amana, Daikin, Goodman, Trane, Carrier, Lennox, and more.

What services do you provide?

We offer heating installation and repair, AC installation and repair, indoor air quality solutions, HVAC maintenance, ductwork cleaning, and dryer vent cleaning.

Do you install new heating and cooling systems?

Yes, we handle complete system installations and replacements for both heating and air conditioning units.

Do you repair HVAC systems?

Absolutely. Our technicians are trained to troubleshoot and repair all makes and models.

Do you offer regular maintenance plans?

Yes, we offer scheduled maintenance programs to keep your HVAC system running efficiently year-round.

Indoor Air Quality

How can I improve my home’s indoor air quality (IAQ)?

You can improve IAQ by regularly changing your air filters, using an air purifier, installing a humidifier or dehumidifier to control moisture, and ensuring proper ventilation.

What are the common signs of poor indoor air quality?

Signs can be both physical and environmental. Look for frequent headaches, dizziness, or fatigue; persistent allergy symptoms (sneezing, watery eyes, stuffy nose); or respiratory issues that seem to improve when you leave the house. Environmental signs include musty odors, excessive dust buildup, and visible mold or mildew.

How often should I change my HVAC filter?

We recommend changing your HVAC filter every 1 to 3 months. If you have pets or someone in your home has allergies or a respiratory condition, you should change it more frequently. A clean filter improves air quality and system efficiency.

What’s the difference between an air purifier and an air filter?

An air filter is a passive device that traps larger particles (like dust) as air passes through your HVAC system. An air purifier is an active device that uses technology (such as UV lights or ionization) to actively destroy or neutralize smaller airborne particles like bacteria, viruses, and mold spores that a filter might miss.

What are the most common indoor air pollutants?

Common pollutants include particulates (dust, pollen, pet dander), volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cleaning products and furnishings, mold and mildew spores, and harmful gases like carbon monoxide and radon.

What is a whole-home dehumidifier?

A whole-home dehumidifier works with your HVAC system to remove excess moisture from the air throughout your entire house. Maintaining optimal humidity levels (typically between 30-50%) prevents mold and mildew growth, protects wood furnishings, and makes your home feel more comfortable.

Do you install air purifiers?

Yes. We can install whole-home air purification systems to reduce dust, pollen, and allergens.

Do you offer humidity control solutions?

We install and service humidifiers and dehumidifiers for optimal comfort.

Maintenance Tips

How often should I change my air filter?

We recommend checking it monthly and replacing it every 1–3 months.

How often should I schedule HVAC maintenance?

At least twice a year—once in spring for cooling and once in fall for heating.

What happens during a maintenance visit?

We clean components, check refrigerant levels, test safety controls, and ensure optimal performance.

Heating Services

Do you repair furnaces?

Yes, we provide repair services for gas and electric furnaces.

Do you install new furnaces?

We install energy-efficient furnaces from trusted brands.

Do you offer heat pump services?

Yes. We repair, maintain, and install heat pumps for year-round comfort.

Why is my furnace blowing cold air?

This can be due to thermostat settings, a dirty filter, or more complex issues—call us for diagnosis.

Cooling Services

Do you repair central air conditioners?

Yes. We fix refrigerant leaks, electrical issues, compressor problems, and more.

Do you install new AC systems?

We install high-efficiency cooling systems to help lower your energy bills.

Why is my AC not cooling my home?

Causes range from dirty filters to refrigerant leaks—our technicians can identify and fix the problem.

Do you offer ductless mini-split services?

Yes, we install and service ductless mini-split AC systems.

Energy Efficiency

Can a new HVAC system lower my energy bills?

Yes—modern systems are designed for better efficiency and can significantly reduce monthly costs.

What is the best thermostat for my home?

We recommend programmable or smart thermostats for maximum comfort and energy savings.

How can I improve my home’s HVAC efficiency?

Routine maintenance, sealing ductwork, upgrading insulation, and installing a smart thermostat all help.

Costs & Payments

How much does HVAC repair cost?

Costs vary depending on the issue. We provide upfront, honest estimates before starting work.

Do you offer financing?

Yes, we offer financing options for new HVAC systems.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, cash, and check.

Scheduling & Emergency Service

How do I schedule an appointment?

Call us or fill out our online contact form to schedule service.

Do you offer 24/7 emergency HVAC service?

Yes, we provide emergency repair services for urgent heating and cooling issues.

How quickly can you respond to a service call?

In most cases, we offer same-day service, especially during peak seasons.

Company Information

Who is Ireland Heating & Cooling, Inc.?

We’re a family-owned and operated HVAC company serving Radcliff, Kentucky, and surrounding areas since 1968.

Where is Ireland Heating & Cooling located?

Our office is at 211 Atcher Street, Radcliff, KY 40160.

What areas do you serve?

We proudly serve Radcliff, Elizabethtown, Vine Grove, Fort Knox, and surrounding Hardin County communities.

Are you licensed and insured?

Yes. We are fully licensed, insured, and owner-verified to perform heating and cooling work in Kentucky.

How long have you been in business?

We have been serving our community since 1968.