FAQ

Frequently Ask Questions

Below are some of the more common questions that we answer from customers. If you can’t find the answers that you need please give us a call or drop us an e-mail, our “Contact” page lists a variety of ways to get a hold of us. We’ll strive to do our very best to answer all of your Heating and Cooling questions so you can make an informed decision on your needs.

At this time we cover approximately a 30-40 mile radius from Bay City.

We install and service commercial rooftop units and complete boiler systems. We also do custom sheet metal work. Contact Jim or Mike for more information.

We have maintenance plans available for both residential and commercial customers. The plan is called Energy Saving Agreement (ESA). Details on the ESA plan is located on our “Services” page.

We accept Master Card, Visa and Discover card.

Filters should generally be replaced every month when the system is running. Replace filters with the same kind and size as original filter. If your filter is not disposable, follow the manufacturer instructions for cleaning.

The federal government requires all air conditioning and heating equipment to be rated as to efficiency. The higher the rating, the more efficient the model. For cooling, the rating is SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating); heat pump heating is HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) and gas furnaces are rated with AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). All of these ratings can be compared by asking your Ryczek Heating and Cooling representative, utility or referencing the ARI Directory.

The answer is “That depends.” There are many factors which must be considered: the efficiency of the equipment, the size of your home, is the duct work installed and in good condition, do you need a thermostat or electronic air cleaner. In most cases, replacing your whole system, indoor and outdoor components, will result in a more efficient, longer lasting system but will also cost a little more. Contact us for a cost estimate.

Humidity is a problem in many areas. The best way to control excessive humidity is to have a system that runs longer at lower speeds. Variable speed air handling equipment runs at very low speeds, which keeps the air circulating against the cooling coil and removes much more moisture than conventional systems. At these low speeds, the variable speed motor uses much less electricity than conventional motors.

There are a couple. One is that you get constant filtering of the air in your home. The other is that because the air is moving, you have a more even temperature throughout.

Manufacturers generally agree that plants should not be closer than 18 inches. Air conditioners need to take in and exhaust air to operate efficiently. If air cannot circulate, the unit could build up heat and require service.

Air conditioners are designed as matched systems, with an efficiency rating given for the whole system. If you replace only one part, you do not get the advantage of many technology changes that make the system work efficiently to ensure comfort. Also, the indoor system contains a cooling coil which may be partially blocked by particles that will decrease efficiency. Further, if your whole system is replaced, you will be less likely to need service in the near future.

There are many things which will determine the size (capacity) system your home requires. Some of these are: square feet to be cooled, climate, humidity, number of windows, insulation factors, which direction your home faces, heat producing appliances, and even the number of people who will be in the home. Your Ryczek Heating and Cooling representative can do an energy analysis on your home and help you decide what your particular needs are for your lifestyle.

A limited warranty covers specific parts (i.e. compressor, coil, electronics, etc.); therefore, it is limited by the language in the warranty. Extended warranties are generally purchased in addition to the equipment. Extended warranties cover all parts and may also include the labor for the service call. An extended warranty protects you from unexpected and unbudgeted service calls for the duration of the warranty.