FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Get quick answers to common queries in HVAC solutions.
1. What is HVAC?
HVAC refers to the systems and technology used to control the temperature, humidity, and air quality in buildings. HVAC systems aim to provide a comfortable and healthy environment for occupants, while also improving energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
2. What services do you offer?
We offer a wide range of HVAC services, including:
- Installation, Repair, and Maintenance of air conditioning systems
- Ductwork design and installation
- Indoor air quality solutions (air purifiers, humidifiers, dehumidifiers)
3. How often should I have my HVAC system serviced?
We recommend having your HVAC system serviced at least twice a year. For optimal performance and to prevent breakdowns, it’s ideal to schedule a maintenance check before the start of each heating and cooling season.
4. What are the signs that my HVAC system needs repair?
Common signs that your HVAC system may need repair include:
- Uneven cooling
- Unusual noises (grinding, squealing, etc.)
- Reduced airflow or poor performance
- Frequent cycling on and off
- Ice formation on coils / water dripping
- High energy bills without a clear explanation
5. How can I improve the efficiency of my HVAC system?
To improve efficiency:
- Clean air filters regularly (once in 15 days)
- Change air filters regularly (every 12 months).
- Ensure that vents and registers are not blocked.
- Seal any leaks in ducts and windows.
- Use a programmable thermostat to manage temperatures more effectively.
- Schedule regular maintenance checks with a professional.
6. What should I do if my HVAC system is not working?
If your HVAC system is not working:
Check the thermostat settings to ensure they are correct.
Make sure the system is receiving power (check circuit breakers and fuses).
Inspect air filters and clean / replace them if they are dirty.
Is the timer switched on?
Is there any error on the IDU display?
Check for any visible issues with the unit or ductwork. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, contact us for a professional inspection and repair.
7. How long does an HVAC system last?
The lifespan of an HVAC system can vary based on the type and how well it is maintained.
Air conditioners typically last 10-15 years. Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your system.
8. How do I choose the right HVAC system for my home?
Choosing the right HVAC system depends on several factors, including the size of your home, your budget, and your specific heating and cooling needs. Our experts can perform a load calculation and provide recommendations based on your home’s requirements.
9. Can I cover the front of the outdoor unit to make it less visible?
The outdoor unit of a split AC must have sufficient clearance around it to perform properly.
If you would like to cover your outdoor unit, consult a Milestone engineer service expert to see if it can be done in some way without affecting it's performance.
10. Should one buy a Split AC or a Window AC?
A room air conditioner is ideal for rooms up to 200 sq. ft. where one of the walls is exposed to the outside. In the case of budget and space constants, one could go for a window AC.
Though window ACs are cheaper and easy to install, split ACs are quieter in operation, more aesthetically appealing, and have better air distribution. If there are no exposed walls, a split AC is the only option for purchase. split ACs have two units - a compressor unit outside and an indoor unit inside. Since the compressor is kept outside, noise levels are lower in a split air conditioner as compared to the window air conditioner. However, installing split ACs may require some renovation work, which implies a monetary investment.
11. What is the right AC tonnage for my room?
To know the right tonnage of AC to buy, one needs to do a heat load calculation of the room to be air-conditioned. Very often, a thumb rule of 100 sq. ft. = 1 Ton is applied to calculate the room AC tonnage. However, this method may not always be accurate.
The size of the windows, location of the walls (west or east facing), floor, and number of people expected to occupy the room, other gadgets in the room, and lighting, amongst others, all play a role in calculating the right tonnage for the room. It is recommended to request a technician to visit the room and allow him to do a heat load calculation.
Identifying the right AC tonnage is a critical step, since buying an undersized Air Conditioner may provide inadequate cooling with perhaps the compressor never cutting off, and buying an oversized one may result in high power bills.
12. What is an Inverter AC?
Fixed Speed Window and standard Split Air Conditioners have a compressor that runs at a fixed speed. The compressor is therefore either on or off depending on the set temperature.
The inverter AC thinks and adjusts according to your needs. The compressor has a variable speed and changes its frequency according to the ambient load. As the frequency changes, the speed of the compressor also changes. This eliminates any temperature fluctuations and helps maintain a comfortable temperature. For example, a 1.5 Ton inverter AC can decrease its capacity to 1 Ton or increase its capacity to 1.75 Ton, as per the requirement. As there is no cut-in and cut-off, the inverter AC saves up to 30% more power.
13. What are some other useful points to keep in mind while purchasing an AC?
One should look out for various types of filters available in an AC, such as an anti-microbial filter and a PM 2.5 catching filter which traps dust particles, and mites as well as eliminates bacteria and viruses. Thus, the air inhaled is pure and healthy.
Most air conditioning units also have a dehumidifier, which reduces humidity in the air, making it cooler and more comfortable.
Also, one should check the noise level of the model, which usually ranges from 30-60 decibels.
The sleep mode of an AC is an intelligent feature as it creates less noise and automatically adjusts the temperature during the night so that it is comfortable throughout.
An auto restart facility to help restore the original setting after a power break.
Having a timer in the AC enables the users to turn it on or off on schedule.
A feature called ‘iFeel’ helps in maintaining the set temperature around the person rather than the air conditioner. A sensor on the remote signals the thermostat in the unit, which adjusts the cooling accordingly, making it more comfortable.
14. Why does a higher star AC cost more? How to calculate the payback period?
High energy efficiency design involves increased components in the heat exchange area due to which input costs increase. Hence, a higher-star AC, such as a 5-star AC, costs more than a 2-star one.
To make an informed choice related to energy and monetary benefits in an AC, one needs to calculate the energy and corresponding monetary savings. Payback period in years = incremental higher price/energy saving in a year over a lower star AC.
Buying a 5 Star AC is a good decision in the long term, especially given the fact that consumers nowadays use their ACs for much longer periods and the power tariff is likely to increase over the years.
15. Can I use perfumes with my AC?
While perfumes do create a good atmosphere, they should be used cautiously as some people can be allergic to them.
The best way to keep the foul smell out is to open windows and use fans to bring in a lot of fresh air before the AC is switched on. Keeping the AC room clean is also equally important.
16. What is the ideal location for installing a Window AC?
The window AC should be installed at a height of 5 feet behind the user. The air draft from the AC should not hit the user directly.
17. To what distance will a Window AC or Split AC throw air?
A normal window AC or split AC will throw air up to 15 feet. However, special split units are able to throw air up to 50 feet.
18. Does one need a 3-phase electricity supply to install an AC in the house?
Window ACs and split ACs of lower tonnage work on a single phase. However, it is better to have a 3-phase supply and distribute the other loads like geysers, washing machines, pumps and lights in the other 2 phases.
19. Do I have to necessarily buy a voltage stabiliser when I buy an AC?
The compressor, which is the most critical component in the AC, works between 190- 240 V. With voltages in most parts of India going well below 190 V, a voltage stabiliser is recommended for an AC.
20. How can one maximise the AC output in the room?
Once installed, the AC needs fresh air to work efficiently, so one needs to ensure that the outdoor unit is not blocked. Also, the moisture from the room, collected as water, needs to be drained out properly.
The outdoor unit should be made of corrosion-resistant galvanised steel.
Providing curtains/blinds/sun film on windows reduces heat input into the room. Protecting the AC from direct sunlight can boost its efficiency by almost 5%. Also, a false ceiling or insulation of the ceiling reduces heat input in the room. The filter should be easily accessible so that it can be removed and cleaned regularly as an unclean filter obstructs optimal cooling as well as increases energy consumption by 10%.
For every degree less than 24℃, the AC will consume 3-5% more energy. So, the thermostat should be set at a comfortably high temperature, preferably 25℃.