Thompson Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. FAQ

Thompson Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc.

What does AFUE stand for? Gas furnaces are rated according to their Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, or AFUE. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the unit.

What is a SEER? Air conditioning equipment is rated by the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating, or SEER. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit.

What is the difference between a split system and a package unit? A split system uses indoor and outdoor components to provide a complete business comfort system. A package unit or self-contained unit requires no external coils, air handlers, or heating units.

When will R-22 refrigerant be phased out?

As a manufacturer we can no longer produce equipment that operates with R-22 refrigerant after January 1, 2010.

R-22 can be manufactured until January 1, 2020. After that time the only virgin R-22 refrigerant available will be stock manufactured prior to January 1, 2020. There should be a supply of Re-claimed refrigerant for some time after this date.
For more detailed information click on the link to go to the EPA web site.

What is a Dual Fuel or Hybrid System?

With energy costs on the rise, many people are evaluating ways to trim their winter heating bill. One option is a dual fuel system, which pairs a gas furnace with an electric heat pump. Dual Fuel systems allow you the choice of using gas or electricity to heat your home.

It’s Comfortable

In colder regions of the U.S., running a furnace at full capacity while temperatures are chilly but mild is a costly choice. With a dual fuel system, homeowners are able to use a heat pump to maintain comfort, eliminating the gas consumption required to operate a furnace.

By using staged heat pumps, homeowners can achieve more even temperatures at a reduced capacity when needed. A two-stage system operates on either high or low. One stage can usually handle the majority of the home’s heating needs, allowing it to run longer. For those located in more moderate climates, staged heating avoids reliance on furnaces only for heating needs.

It’s Efficient

Based on the pricing of either electric or gas, a dual fuel system allows homeowners the flexibility of switching to whichever the lowest priced power option is available at the time. Fluctuations in fossil fuel costs can wreak havoc on budgets, and a dual fuel system allows for maximum control.

If you are in the market for a heating system upgrade this winter and want to invest in a system that will help you save money, selecting a dual fuel system may be right for you!