Best HVAC Atlanta is a free referral service. We connect Metro Atlanta homeowners with independent, licensed and insured HVAC contractors for repairs, replacements, maintenance, and indoor air quality. Below are answers to the questions we hear most about how it works and about heating and cooling in Georgia.
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Frequently asked questions
Is this service free?
Yes. There's no cost to you to request help. HVAC contractors in our network pay for referrals. You only pay the contractor you hire, and you're never obligated to hire anyone.
Are you an HVAC contractor?
No. We're an independent referral service. We pass your request to an independent, licensed and insured HVAC contractor serving your area, and they contact you directly. Any work is contracted between you and that company.
How fast will someone contact me?
For no-cooling or no-heat emergencies, the goal is a call back as soon as possible during business hours and promptly after hours. For tune-ups and replacement quotes, expect contact within a business day or so.
How do I check an HVAC contractor's license in Georgia?
Georgia licenses HVAC contractors as Conditioned Air Contractors through the State Construction Industry Licensing Board. You can look up a license on the Georgia Secretary of State's online verification site. Ask the contractor for their license number and proof of insurance.
How long does a central AC or heat pump last?
Many last around 10 to 15 years, depending on installation quality, maintenance, and how hard they work. In Atlanta's long cooling season, systems put in a lot of hours, so regular maintenance matters.
What temperature should I set my thermostat to in summer?
The U.S. Department of Energy suggests about 78 degrees when you're home and need cooling, and higher when you're away. Every degree warmer saves energy. Use the fan's Auto setting to help the AC remove humidity.
Should I repair or replace my system?
Consider the system's age, the cost of the repair, its refrigerant type, and whether it keeps your home comfortable and dry. For an older system facing a major repair, it's reasonable to get both a repair price and a replacement quote before deciding.
Why is my AC running but blowing warm air?
Common causes include a failed capacitor or contactor that keeps the outdoor unit from running, low refrigerant from a leak, a dirty outdoor coil, or a frozen indoor coil from low airflow. Check the filter and breaker, then call a technician.
What SEER2 rating is required in Georgia?
Georgia is in the federal Southeast region. Since 2023, new split-system central air conditioners installed here must meet at least 14.3 SEER2 for most smaller residential sizes, or 13.8 SEER2 for larger units. Higher ratings are available and can lower operating costs.
Why does my furnace turn on and then shut off?
A dirty flame sensor is a frequent cause: the burners light, the sensor fails to confirm the flame, and the furnace shuts down. Overheating from a clogged filter or a blocked condensate drain on high-efficiency furnaces can also cause short cycling.
Is a heat pump a good choice in Atlanta?
Heat pumps are common in Metro Atlanta because they heat efficiently in typical winter weather and provide cooling all summer. On the coldest nights they may rely on backup electric heat, or you can pair one with a gas furnace in a dual-fuel setup.
How often should I change my HVAC filter?
Check it monthly during heavy use and replace it when it's dirty, often every one to three months. Homes with pets, allergies, or heavy spring pollen may need more frequent changes.
Why is my upstairs so hot?
Heat rises, attics above upstairs rooms get very hot, and many systems weren't designed with enough supply and return air for the second floor. Duct sealing, balancing, added returns, zoning, or a separate upstairs system can help.
What humidity should my house be in summer?
The EPA recommends keeping indoor relative humidity below 60 percent, ideally between 30 and 50 percent. A digital hygrometer can tell you where your home stands.