Best heating and air conditioning pros near Lewiston, ME

The standard HVAC warranty is around five years. Still, many brands offer an extension to 10 years if you register the product within a specific timeframe, typically 60 to 90 days post-purchase or HVAC installation. Over the past decade, warranty periods have substantially increased, shifting from 3-5 years in the 90s to the now-prevalent 10+ year warranties. Both warranty types cover parts failing due to manufacturer defects, incurring no additional costs. Some manufacturers provide extended warranties surpassing the usual 15- to 20-year window, though these often involve extra fees. 

The length of an AC cycle depends on the settings in your thermostat and the unit you have. Central AC doesn't constantly run at full blast the way that a window unit does. A cooling cycle in most homes is 15 to 20 minutes. Then, the unit stays off for seven to 10 minutes to circulate the cold air in the house before the cycle repeats. It should repeat two or three times per hour. A short cycle lasts less than 10 minutes and then turns off.

At a minimum, an HVAC system should be serviced once per year. However, a twice-a-year service schedule—once in the spring for the cooling system and once in the fall for the heating system—is often recommended, especially for older systems, heat pumps, or in climates with extreme temperatures. Regular service, which includes inspection, cleaning, and maintenance, ensures the system runs efficiently, helps prevent costly breakdowns during peak seasons, and can extend the unit's lifespan. You can also schedule a service if you notice issues like poor performance or strange noises.

When first installed, flex ducts shouldn’t cause airflow problems in your home. However, because flex ducts aren’t the sturdiest and require extra support, they lose their durability over time and begin to sag, which can inhibit airflow down the road. Also, if your flex ducts aren’t tight enough, your HVAC could work twice as hard for the same air pressure. If you’re worried about the airflow in your home, a rigid duct may be your best bet.