Vortex Heating & Cooling FAQ

Have an HVAC-related question? We have the answer. Check out these FAQs and call Vortex Heating & Cooling today for more information and a free estimate for new installs!

If you have a question not listed here please send us a contact form with your question and we’ll get you the answer!

With our 20 years experience, we want to help you understand as much (or as little) as you want. If you want to try to fix it yourself, we will try to help you, if you don’t and just want us to fix it we are happy to help and can always come out quickly for your a/c or heating needs!

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of filter is best for my HVAC system?

In order to avoid needing emergency AC repair, we recommend having no lower than a MERV 8 filter. MERV 11 is good as well, but no higher than MERV 13. Even if it says it's a 90-day filter, do not go 90 days without changing it, especially during the summer when your AC is running almost all day and night.
We recommend you change it every month in the summer and not use the same filter for more than 60 days in the cooler months.

You can order your filters online, with free shipping & autoship so you never have to remember to buy filters again bit.ly/Orderairfilters
How often should I change my filter?

In order to avoid needing urgent AC repair, we recommend changing your filter every month. A good reminder is to change it every time you pay your electric bill.

You can order your filters online, with free shipping & autoship so you never have to remember to buy filters again bit.ly/Orderairfilters
How often should I have maintenance done on my AC unit?

In order to avoid needing urgent AC repair, we recommend having your system serviced twice a year. You should have one service at the beginning of the year to make sure everything is working well for the hottest months and another service at the end of the year to test your heating elements and make sure those are working when you need them.
Why is it important to have regular maintenance?

Performing routine maintenance will keep your drain line clear, catch minor problems before they become major problems, and extend the life of your AC system. It will also help you avoid needing emergency AC repair.
What can I do in between maintenances to help prevent drain line backups?

You can pour a quarter cup of white vinegar down your drain line cleanout tee once a month when you change your filter. Should you need an AC repair, be sure to call us.
How can I flush my own drain line?
1. Turn your AC system off.
2. Hook up a shop vacuum to the drain line outside. While the shop vacuum is sucking, pour hot water down the clean-out tee inside the air handler until you hear the shop vac well through the pipe.
3. If it does not break free, call us to come out with more tools to clear it for you.
4. If it does break free and you hear it really well, remove the shop vacuum outside. Pour half a gallon of water down the clean-out tee to prime it.
5. Check the safety switch to see if there’s water in there. If so, remove it and then put the switch back in place.
6. Turn your AC back on.
7. If the system backs up again, you may have bigger issues. In that case, give Vortex Heating & Cooling a call for reliable 7 Days a Week AC repair.
I want to change my own thermostat—what tips can you give?

To change your thermostat, first shut off both breakers (air handler/heat and condenser/air conditioner). Be sure to take pictures of the thermostat wiring before removing anything. Then, wire up the new thermostat correctly for your unit (heat pump or straight cool, 1 or 2 stage). Should you need 7 Days a Week AC repair, be sure to call us!
Can I clean my own evaporator coils?

No, we do not recommend it. Be sure to call us when you need AC repair, 7 Days a Week.
What are some reasons I should consider replacing my AC system?

One reason to consider replacing your AC system is if you have high electric bills. This could be the result of an inefficient system.
Another reason would be if you have had numerous minor repairs and breakdowns. This is because the aggravation and costs will continue to increase.
Additionally, if you have a major breakdown and your system is out of warranty, the cost may be so high that it makes more sense to replace it. Be sure to call us if you’re in need of AC repair, available 7 Days a Week.