FAQs

For service, how much do you charge per hour?  Do you break down your service calls into parts and labor? 

Our invoices are broken down into two categories:

Service Fee which includes travel time, diagnostic evaluation, and estimating the repair price if needed.  In El Paso County, our service fee is a flat $85.00.  Outside El Paso country, our service fee is $85/hour, and additional fuel charges apply.

Contract Price for Repair:  This is an upfront price for repairs that includes parts, labor, overhead, and taxes.  When you authorize the diagnosed repairs for the upfront price, you will not pay a penny more for the repair, which means no surprises on the bottom line.

Can you diagnose a problem with my heating or AC over the phone?

In order to stand by our upfront prices, we must see and diagnose the situation before quoting a price.  If it was possible we would, but there are too many variables to give ballparks “guesses” on repairs.

What if I need a part installed?  Will your technician have that part on the truck?

Our technicians carry a truck stock of common items needed for repairs.  However, due to the large number of makes and models of residential units, some parts may have to be purchased at a local supplier or ordered rom another source.  Shipping and time to pick up parts will be included in the “not to exceed” Contract Price for Repair.

If I authorize the necessary repairs for my equipment, will you waive the Service Fee?

Our service fee is charged whether you choose to repair your system or not.  Our company strives to make things as simple and transparent as possible.  We need to pay our highly-qualified technicians for their expertise in trouble-shooting and diagnosing your heating or cooling problem.  This benefits you with the assurance that our technicians have your best interest at heart, and that they will not try to “sell” you on a repair you don’t need, just so our company gets paid.  Experience has taught us that companies that waive this fee, more than likely work that price into the repair.

How often should I change my furnace filter?

The frequency depends on several things. A good rule of thumb is to change your filter monthly if:

• Your furnace or a/c is running frequently during its peak season.
• You have pet(s) with hair, fur or dander.
• You live on a dirt road or have a lot of dust.
• The manufacturer’s warranty requires it.

Otherwise, change your filter at the beginning, middle and end of the heating season. You can always look at the filter to determine if it needs to be changed more frequently.

What type of filter should I buy?

Always look in your owner’s manual for the recommended type for your unit. In general, we recommend buying the “cheapest” pleated filter…usually around $3. We are always happy to provide you with a year’s supply at your annual furnace maintenance.

How often should I have my equipment serviced?

Heating and air conditioning equipment should be serviced at least once a year. If you own both a furnace and air conditioner, the best scenario is to have the furnace checked in the Fall and a/c checked in the Spring. At a minimum, have them checked at the same time at the beginning of the cooling season.

At what temperature should I keep my thermostat?

Keep your thermostat at the lowest temperature that you are comfortable.

What temperature should I turn my thermostat to when I am sleeping or gone for the day?

To be most efficient, Colorado Springs Utilities recommends that you do not turn your thermostat down more than 4 degrees. The energy cost to get the temperature back to a comfortable level (recovery) is more than you’ll save if you turn it down more than 4 degrees.  IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTAT, you can have us install one. Call for an estimate.

*If you own a boiler, it does not make sense to change the temperature throughout the day.

When will I need to replace my furnace? Two things to consider…

1. Frequency of breakdowns: The average furnace lasts 16-20 years. A furnace that is cleaned and serviced annually may last 5-10 years longer. At some point you will notice more frequent break-downs…kind of like have an old car. If you are getting nickled and dimed, it might be time.
2. Your furnace has a pilot light: This means the efficiency of your furnace is 70% or less. Today’s furnaces are as efficient as 95% or more. If you are considering an upgrade, we would be happy to calculate your return on investment in fuel cost.

What size heating and air conditioning system do I need?

Many factors go into determining the correct size of your system. Factors such as square footage, type of walls, windows, insulation, how the home is oriented and so on. Our indoor comfort professional has 30+ years in this industry to ensure your home is properly surveyed.