Allentown HVAC FAQ

If your system is over 10–15 years old, requires frequent repairs or causes unusually high energy bills, replacement is usually the smarter choice. Allentown’s hot, humid summers and long freezing winters put extra strain on systems, shortening their effective lifespan.

If your unit still uses R-22 refrigerant (Freon), replacement is strongly recommended, as it’s now phased out and expensive to refill!

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures cooling efficiency and AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) measures heating efficiency. The higher the rating, the more efficient the system, which leads to lower operating costs.

Pennsylvania requires SEER 14 or higher for new installations. In Allentown, where weather swings are extreme, opting for a higher SEER (like 15–18) can be well worth the investment, especially for homes with limited insulation or direct sun exposure.

Spikes in energy bills often point to dirty filters, leaky ducts, aging equipment or humidity control issues.

During summer, your AC works harder not only to cool but also to remove moisture from the air, which increases energy use. In winter, heating systems may run constantly to keep up with sub-freezing temperatures.

You can check your energy usage history through PPL Electric’s online tools — sudden increases may be a sign of system inefficiency or impending failure.

IAQ refers to how clean and healthy the air is inside your home. Allentown homes that stay sealed during long winters or humid summers can trap pollutants like dust, pet dander and mold.

Improve your air quality with HEPA filters, air purifiers, proper ventilation and humidity control. Aim to keep indoor humidity between 30% and 50% — anything lower can cause dry skin or respiratory issues, while higher humidity encourages mold and dust mites.

This issue could stem from a clogged air filter, low refrigerant, malfunctioning thermostat or a failed ignition component. In heat pumps, it may also indicate iced-over coils or a defrost cycle issue.

Start by checking your filter and ensuring your thermostat is set correctly. If air still isn’t flowing properly, confirm the fan setting is on “auto” rather than “on,” and check your circuit breaker before calling a technician.

• Banging, rattling, squealing: Loose or worn-out parts
• Hissing: Refrigerant or valve leak
• Buzzing: Electrical issue
• Burning smell: Possible overheating or wire damage
• Musty smell: Mold in the system

If you notice any of these, shut off the system and call for service. Delaying repairs could damage your unit or create a safety hazard, especially in cases involving electrical components.

Freezing can happen if temperatures drop below 32°F for extended periods and the unit isn’t properly winterized. Blocked airflow from snow, ice or leaves can also cause coils to ice over.

Heat pumps often frost during normal operation but should automatically defrost. If you see ice that doesn’t melt within an hour or two, or builds up significantly, that’s a sign something’s wrong.

Check for leaky ducts, dirty filters or outdated thermostats. Zoning systems offer room-by-room temperature control — great for older homes or multi-level layouts.

If you suspect airflow issues, try holding a tissue near a vent while the system runs — if it flutters inconsistently or not at all, there may be a leak or blockage behind the scenes.

Air filters should be changed every 1 to 3 months, depending on the type of filter, the size of your system and factors like pets or allergies. A clogged filter reduces airflow, strains your system and lowers indoor air quality.

You can buy filters at any local hardware or multipurpose store — just make sure to check the size printed on the old one before heading out to replace it!

• Fall: Schedule furnace tune-up, inspect insulation, check for drafts
• Winter: Set thermostat above 60°F, clear snow from outdoor units
• Spring: Flush condensate lines, clean coils, test AC function
• Summer: Ensure system can dehumidify effectively

These maintenance steps help prolong system life and reduce emergency repairs.