Heating System FAQs

Furnaces and boilers can last 15-30 years, while heat pumps typically last 10-15 years. Annual maintenance, proper installation, climate and usage all significantly impact how long a system operates effectively. 

If you are concerned about the age or condition of your heating system, our HVAC technicians can perform an inspection and provide you with details about its health and energy efficiency, even if we didn’t install it. Contact us or call (757) 833-0058 to schedule an appointment.

Furnaces and heat pumps should be professionally serviced at least once a year, with heat pumps often requiring two service calls annually in the spring and fall to cover both heating and cooling seasons. Scheduling service before you need your system ensures it will be ready for peak season.

Extreme Climates offers affordable Maintenance Plans to save you money and ensure your heating system is professionally inspected, cleaned and tuned-up seasonally.

HVAC air filters should be changed regularly according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, usually every 1-3 months. And air ducts should be professionally cleaned every 3-5 years.

Yes, heat pumps are well-suited for areas where the winters are mild, including the Virginia Peninsula. Some homeowners may choose to install a supplemental heat source, such as a gas furnace or electric backup, when using a heat pump in the northern parts of Virginia. However, for the Hampton Roads Region, a heat pump alone is often sufficient.

Extreme Climates installs both heat pumps and ductless heat pumps, and provides heat pump maintenance and repairs in Yorktown, Williamsburg, Gloucester and throughout the Virginia Peninsula. Contact us for an estimate on heat pump installation, or call (757) 833-0058 for heat pump maintenance and repairs.

While the ideal temperature will depend on your home’s insulation and personal comfort level, it’s generally recommended to set your thermostat at 68°F when you are home and awake. To lower your energy bills as much as 10%, consider lowering the temperature by 7-10°F when you are away or sleeping.

If you’re interested in replacing or upgrading your thermostat with a model that offers more features, such as wi-fi and smarthome compatibility or energy usage tracking and learning capabilities for enhanced energy efficiency, Extreme Climates is here to help. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

The most common reason a heating system isn’t working properly is a dirty air filter, which can restrict airflow and cause reduced efficiency, constant running, overheating, or even a complete system shutdown. Faulty thermostats are also a common culprit.

To save yourself a service call, we recommend changing your filter, checking the circuit breaker for your HVAC system, and replacing the batteries in your thermostat first. If those quick fixes don’t resolve the problem, give us a call at (757) 833-0058 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for heating system service and repairs in Yorktown, Williamsburg, Gloucester and throughout the Virginia Peninsula.

If your system is nearing the end of its lifecycle, it’s usually better to replace the unit rather than repair it, but for a newer system, heating repairs may be all you need. A good rule of thumb is to multiply the repair estimate by the age of the system. If it exceeds $5,000, replacing it may be more cost-effective.

At Extreme Climates, we’re dedicated to keeping your costs low. We are not in the business of selling you something you don’t need. If you’re heating system isn’t working properly, we’ll determine the cause of the problem and discuss the options with you, making sure you fully understand the costs and benefits of repairs and/or replacement.