FAQs

Empire Air and Heat
  • How often does my AC need professional maintenance?

    In Florida's climate, your air conditioning system operates significantly harder than units in cooler regions. Empire Air and Heat advises scheduling professional maintenance once per year to maintain optimal system efficiency, prevent biological accumulation in the condensate drain line that could lead to water damage, and detect small problems before they escalate into costly emergency repairs during peak summer heat.
  • What is the typical lifespan of an air conditioner?

    With appropriate maintenance, most air conditioning systems function for 10 to 15 years. Florida's demanding climate conditions can impact system longevity, which makes routine service critical to protecting your investment and maximizing operational life.
  • Is it better to leave the AC running or turn it off when I leave?

    For improved energy efficiency, increase your thermostat setting by 4 to 5 degrees when leaving your home instead of shutting the system down entirely. This method decreases stress on your air conditioner and reduces energy expenses while keeping your home from overheating.
  • Why is my air conditioner blowing warm air?

    Warm air from your system can result from multiple issues, including a clogged air filter, insufficient refrigerant, a failing compressor, or thermostat problems. We suggest scheduling a diagnostic inspection with us to pinpoint and correct the issue promptly.
  • How does living near the coast affect my air conditioner?

    Brevard County's coastal environment exposes air conditioning systems to salt-laden air, which speeds up corrosion on exterior components. Consistent maintenance protects your system against these harsh conditions and prolongs its operational lifespan.
  • Why does my AC need an annual tune-up if it's working fine?

    Florida's intense heat requires AC systems to operate at double the capacity of units in northern climates. Annual preventative maintenance ensures your system performs at maximum efficiency, removes biological buildup from the condensate drain line to prevent water damage, and identifies minor component issues before they develop into expensive emergency repairs during the hottest summer months.
  • What is the best thermostat setting for a Brevard County summer?

    For optimal comfort and energy efficiency, set your thermostat to 78°F (25.5°C) when home. To further reduce your Florida Power & Light (FPL) costs, raise the temperature by 4 to 5 degrees when away from home for work or travel.
  • Why is water leaking from my indoor AC unit?

    Water leaks typically indicate a blocked condensate drain line. Your system removes substantial moisture from Florida's humid air during the cooling process. Accumulation of dust and algae can obstruct the drain line, causing water to back up and overflow. If you observe water leaking, shut off your system immediately to avoid ceiling or floor damage and contact us to clear the blockage.