Frequently Asked Questions
How often should AC systems be serviced in Louisiana?
AC systems in Louisiana should be serviced at least once per year, ideally before summer heat arrives. The humid climate and heavy usage demand seasonal tune-ups including refrigerant checks, coil cleaning, and filter changes. At Possum's Air Repair, we recommend spring maintenance to extend system lifespan and prevent mid-summer breakdowns.What's the difference between a heat pump and a furnace?
A heat pump transfers heat from outside air to warm your home, while a furnace generates heat by burning fuel or using electric resistance. Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, making them ideal for mild Louisiana winters. Furnaces deliver more powerful heat for colder climates but require separate AC systems for cooling.How does proper system sizing affect AC efficiency?
Proper sizing ensures your AC runs efficiently without short cycling or struggling to cool your space. An oversized unit wastes energy and fails to dehumidify properly, while an undersized system runs constantly and wears out faster. At Possum's Air Repair, we perform professional load calculations to match system capacity to your home's exact cooling needs.When should you replace an old heating system?
Replace your heating system if it's over 15 years old, requires frequent repairs, or no longer heats efficiently. Outdated units waste energy and may pose safety risks, especially with gas or oil systems. Upgrading to a modern furnace or heat pump improves comfort, lowers utility bills, and includes full safety inspections.What are the benefits of a ductless mini-split system?
Ductless mini-splits provide zoned heating and cooling without ductwork, perfect for home additions, garages, or older homes. They're energy-efficient, easy to install, and allow independent temperature control in each room. Wall-mounted, ceiling cassette, and multi-zone configurations offer flexible comfort solutions for Louisiana's variable climate.How do seasonal tune-ups extend HVAC equipment lifespan?
Seasonal tune-ups catch small issues before they become costly failures, keeping systems running smoothly for years longer. Regular filter changes, system cleaning, and safety checks reduce wear, improve efficiency, and maintain manufacturer warranty coverage. At Possum's Air Repair, maintenance plans include priority scheduling and service discounts for hassle-free care.What causes an AC to lose cooling performance?
Low cooling performance typically results from refrigerant leaks, dirty coils, clogged filters, or failing compressors. Thermostat issues and blocked airflow also reduce efficiency. Fast diagnosis identifies whether your system needs refrigerant recharge, coil cleaning, or component replacement to restore full cooling capacity.Can a hybrid heating system work in Ville Platte?
Yes, hybrid systems combine a heat pump with a gas or electric furnace, automatically switching based on outdoor temperature and efficiency. In Ville Platte's mild winters, the heat pump handles most heating needs, while the furnace activates during rare cold snaps. This setup maximizes energy savings and comfort year-round.What's involved in walk-in cooler maintenance?
Walk-in cooler maintenance includes leak detection, refrigerant management, temperature calibration, and performance tuning to ensure consistent cold storage. Regular servicing prevents costly product loss and keeps units running efficiently. Possum's Air Repair services commercial refrigeration for restaurants, convenience stores, and businesses needing reliable cooling.Why do HVAC systems need safety inspections?
Safety inspections detect gas leaks, carbon monoxide risks, electrical hazards, and combustion problems in heating systems. Furnaces using gas, electric, or oil require thorough checks of burners, ignition systems, and ventilation. Full setup and testing during installation ensures your system operates safely and meets manufacturer standards.What should you do before an AC installation?
Before installation, ensure your electrical panel can handle the new system's load and clear the installation area for technician access. Discuss system sizing, brand preferences, and energy efficiency goals with your contractor. At Possum's Air Repair, we provide professional recommendations and handle all setup, testing, and performance verification.How quickly can emergency HVAC repairs be completed?
Emergency repairs often happen the same day, depending on the issue and parts availability. Fully stocked service vehicles allow technicians to fix most heating, cooling, and refrigeration failures on the first visit. At Possum's Air Repair, 24/7 response ensures rapid diagnosis and fast comfort restoration for residential and commercial clients.