Welcome to the New Comfort HVAC FAQ page. We know that heating and cooling systems can be confusing – from understanding what SEER2 ratings mean to knowing when it’s time to replace vs. repair. That’s why we’ve compiled straightforward answers to the questions our customers ask us most, so you can make informed decisions about your home comfort.

Whether you’re dealing with a broken furnace, an AC that won’t cool, or just want to understand your HVAC system better, we’ve put together answers to the most common HVAC frequently asked questions we hear from homeowners across Chicago’s western suburbs.

Browse the categories below or contact us directly – we’re always happy to answer your questions in person.

How does New Comfort stand out from other HVAC providers?
+

We set ourselves apart through honesty, speed, and quality. We use only the highest-grade parts coupled with modern technology to deliver efficient and dependable HVAC solutions. Our NATE-certified team receives continuous training, and we operate with 100% transparency – if a repair will do, we won’t push a replacement. We’re locally owned, based in Justice, IL, and we answer our phone 24/7.

What HVAC services do you provide?
+

We offer a full range of heating and cooling services: furnace repair, maintenance, and replacement; AC repair, maintenance, and replacement; HVAC zoning systems; smart thermostat installation; humidification systems; and indoor air quality solutions. Whether it’s residential or commercial, we customize every job to your specific needs.

What areas do you serve?
+

We’re based in Justice, IL and serve Chicago’s western suburbs including Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Clarendon Hills, Willow Springs, Orland Park, La Grange, Palos Heights, Western Springs, Indian Head Park, Homer Glen, Darien, Hickory Hills, Bridgeview, Burr Ridge, Hinsdale, Oak Brook, Naperville, and many more. See our full coverage area.

Do you offer emergency HVAC service?
+

Yes. We offer 24/7 emergency heating and cooling service. If your furnace dies in the middle of a freezing night or your AC goes out on the hottest day of summer, call us at 708-717-9995 and a technician will be dispatched right away.

Do you offer financing for HVAC installations?
+

Yes. We offer financing options through Synchrony to help make new system installations affordable. A full replacement doesn’t have to break the bank – we’ll walk you through the options so you can choose what works for your budget.

How often should I have my HVAC system serviced?
+

At minimum, once a year – ideally your furnace in the fall and your AC in the spring, before each season starts. Regular maintenance prevents breakdowns, lowers energy bills, extends equipment life, and keeps your manufacturer’s warranty valid. Most warranties require annual professional maintenance.

How do I know if my HVAC system needs maintenance?
+

Watch for unusual noises like rattling or buzzing, a noticeable decrease in heating or cooling performance, longer run times, increased energy bills, uneven temperatures between rooms, or strange smells coming from your vents. Any of these signs mean it’s time to call a professional.

How often should I change my HVAC filter?
+

Standard 1-inch filters should be replaced every 1-3 months. Thicker 4-5 inch media filters last 6-12 months. If you have pets, allergies, or a dusty home, change them more frequently. A dirty filter restricts airflow, forces your system to work harder, drives up energy costs, and can cause premature equipment failure.

Should I have my air ducts cleaned?
+

Not on a fixed schedule. Duct cleaning makes sense if you see visible mold growth, signs of pests, or heavy dust and debris blowing out of the registers – for example after a renovation. In most homes, changing filters on time and sealing leaky ducts does more for comfort and air quality. The EPA explains when cleaning is worth it in its guide Should You Have the Air Ducts in Your Home Cleaned?

Should I cover my outdoor AC unit in winter?
+

A full plastic wrap is not recommended because it traps moisture and invites rodents. If you want protection from falling ice and leaves, a breathable cover over the top only is enough. Keep the area around the unit clear of snow drifts, and never cover a heat pump – it keeps running through the winter.

What are the benefits of a smart thermostat?
+

Smart thermostats let you control your heating and cooling remotely from your phone, learn your schedule to optimize energy use, and can reduce energy bills by 10-15%. They also provide usage reports so you can see exactly where your money is going. We install and configure smart thermostats as part of our thermostat services.

My HVAC system isn’t heating or cooling properly. What should I do?
+

Start with the basics: check that your thermostat is set correctly, make sure all vents are open and unobstructed, and check your air filter – a clogged filter is the most common cause of poor performance. If the problem persists, call a certified HVAC technician. The issue could be low refrigerant, a failing compressor, a faulty ignitor, or ductwork problems that require professional diagnosis.

Why is my furnace blowing cold air?
+

Common causes include a dirty air filter restricting airflow, a malfunctioning thermostat, a pilot light or ignitor that’s gone out, or an overheated system that’s shut down as a safety measure. Check your filter and thermostat settings first. If neither is the issue, call us – it may be a flame sensor, gas valve, or heat exchanger problem that needs professional attention.

Why is my AC freezing up?
+

A frozen AC is usually caused by restricted airflow (dirty filter or blocked vents), low refrigerant levels from a leak, or a malfunctioning blower fan. Turn the system off and let it thaw completely before turning it back on. If it freezes again, there’s an underlying issue that needs a technician to diagnose and fix.

What should I do if I smell gas or my CO alarm goes off?
+

Leave the house right away with everyone, including pets. Do not switch lights or appliances on or off, and do not try to find the source yourself. Call your gas utility or 911 from outside. Once the home has been declared safe, call us at 708-717-9995 so a technician can inspect the furnace, water heater and venting before they are used again.

My AC is running but the house is not cooling down. Why?
+

First check that the thermostat is set to Cool, the filter is clean, and the outdoor unit is running and free of debris. If the outdoor fan is not spinning, the refrigerant lines are frozen, or the air from the vents is barely cool, the cause is often a failed capacitor, a refrigerant leak or a dirty coil. Turn the system off if you see ice and call for service – running a frozen system can damage the compressor.

Why are some rooms in my house hotter or colder than others?
+

Uneven temperatures are usually caused by ductwork issues (leaks, poor design, or blockages), inadequate insulation, or a system that’s the wrong size for your home. An HVAC zoning system can solve this by letting you control temperatures independently in different areas. We offer zoning system installation to eliminate hot and cold spots.

How long does an HVAC system typically last?
+

Furnaces typically last 15-20 years and air conditioners 10-15 years with proper maintenance. Without regular service, those numbers drop significantly. Factors like usage frequency, humidity, installation quality, and whether you keep up with filter changes all affect lifespan.

How do I know when it’s time to replace vs. repair my system?
+

Consider replacement if your system is over 15 years old, needs frequent repairs, your energy bills keep climbing, it uses R-22 refrigerant (phased out), or the repair cost exceeds 50% of a new system’s price. We always try to repair first – we won’t push a replacement if a fix makes more sense for your situation.

Is installing a new HVAC system expensive?
+

Cost depends on your property size, the system type, and installation complexity. While the upfront investment can be significant, modern high-efficiency systems deliver much lower energy bills and pay for themselves over time. We provide free estimates for all installations and offer financing through Synchrony to make it manageable.

What size HVAC system does my home need?
+

Size should be calculated, not guessed from the old unit’s label. A proper load calculation looks at square footage, insulation, windows, air leakage and how the home faces the sun. An oversized system short-cycles, wastes energy and leaves the house humid in summer; an undersized one runs nonstop and struggles on the coldest and hottest days. We size every new HVAC system for the home it will serve.

Are heat pumps a good option for Chicago-area homes?
+

They can be. Modern cold-climate heat pumps keep heating efficiently well below freezing, and many homeowners pair one with a gas furnace in a dual-fuel setup – the heat pump handles mild weather, and the furnace takes over during deep cold snaps. Whether it is the right heating and cooling choice depends on your home, your ductwork and your energy rates, and we’re happy to walk through the numbers during a free estimate.

What is a SEER2 rating and why does it matter?
+

SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2) measures how efficiently an air conditioner cools your home. The higher the number, the less energy it uses. Older units might be rated 8-10 SEER. New minimum standards require 14-15 SEER2, and premium units reach 20+. Upgrading from a 10 SEER to a 16 SEER2 system can cut cooling costs by nearly 40%.

“Called for emergency AC repair and they arrived in under 1 hour. The tech was professional, knowledgeable, and fixed the issue quickly at a fair price. Highly recommend!”

“Very professional, diagnosed the problem quick, the workers were very professional and nice. Got the job done quickly. Would recommend over and over.”

“New Comfort is responsive and timely. Tomasz and his team provide higher quality work at market pricing. When you need things done right the first time, New Comfort is the way to go.”

“The New Comfort team did an excellent job troubleshooting my HVAC issues. They were both professional and cost conscious. Highly recommend to anyone needing HVAC work.”

“I appreciated how quickly they came to help me out with my air conditioning issues. Really attentive and fast service.”

“Called when our A/C went out on the first 95+ day on a Saturday. They came out same day and took care of the problem within an hour. Professional, efficient, and friendly.”