frequently asked questions



Over the years, the technicians at VETAIR  have heard and seen some pretty unbelievable things when it comes to commercial HVAC and residential HVAC. If you are looking for a professional air conditioning and heating company that who knows how to get things done right the first time, you are in the right place. Here are the answers to some of the many frequently asked questions (FAQs) we get from time to time.

general hvac knowledge, history and technology information

  • When was the first air conditioner invented?

    The first modern air conditioner was invented in 1902 to solve a humidity issue causing a commercial printer’s magazine pages to wrinkle.


    Read more at:

    https://www.energy.gov/articles/history-air-conditioning 

  • Who invented the first mobile air conditioning unit?

    Ohio native and veteran Frederick McKinley Jones invented the first mobile air conditioner. His vehicle-based innovation transformed how perishable goods are delivered across the country, ensuring freshness and quality for all. As a result, he became the first Black member of the American Society of Refrigeration Engineers and was the first Black American to be awarded with the National Medal of Technology.


    Read more at:


    https://www.invent.org/inductees/frederick-mckinley-jones

  • When was the first central heating system developed?

    The ancient Roman hypocaust was an innovative engineering marvel designed to provide central heating throughout buildings.


    This remarkable underfloor heating method utilized hot air generated by furnaces, circulating it beneath the floors and through the walls. The hypocaust is a true testament to the ancient ingenuity.

extending the life of your air conditioning and heating system

  • How do I mount a HVAC heat pump outdoors?

    Because each Florida hurricane season is so unpredictable, it is critical to choose the right foundation for your HVAC system's heat pump. Although pavers or bricks might look appealing, they are insufficient for this task. Instead, choose a hurricane pad.


    It is purposefully designed to withstand wind and rain during hurricanes, offering maximum stability resilience in the face harsh weather. This helps minimize movement which would disrupt system performance.

  • Should I buy a high quality air filter?

    Many people wonder if a more expensive air filter will be worth the money. Remember that with air filters, you are investing in both cleaner air and higher HVAC system efficiency - which saves you money in the long run.


    In priority order, here are the things to consider if you want to improve indoor air quality:


    1. Airflow
    2. Filtration level
    3. Price

    You have to find the right balance, based on your health and the health of your family. Higher-rated filters have better dust and allergen capture but at what cost? 


    That’s why we recommend a MERV rating of 8-10 for optimal performance in your home or business. And don't forget to change your air filter every 1-3 months, based on it's published replacement period.



  • How can I stop my condensation line from clogging up?

    Keeping your system running in tip-top shape is essential for indoor air quality, comfort and cost-savings. One easy maintenance pro tip is to sanitize your condensation drain line each month. 


    By pouring a diluted mixture of vinegar or bleach down the line, you can clear out build-up and prevent gunky clogs that lead to system downtime, costly repairs, or even a wet vac intervention. 


    Stay ahead of the game and don’t let a small issue turn into a major problem. A little proactive upkeep goes a long way! 

  • Where do I switch off the HVAC system power?

    Safety is paramount in air conditioning maintenance. If VETAIR or another reputable HVAC company installed your system, there should be a high-voltage cut-off installed directly on or adjacent to the main unit.


    That location provides immediate access for HVAC technicians to swiftly disconnect or reconnect power as needed, significantly reducing the risk of electrocution during repairs. If there is not a cut-off mounted in the direct vicinity of your indoor blower unit, we strongly recommend adding one.


    Removing electrical hazards by prioritizing safety provides peace of mind, enables operational efficiency, and helps protect lives. Not to mention avoiding potential liability.

  • How do I stop my evaporator coil from freezing up then thawing and leaking?

    The key is to keep your HVAC system's evaporator coil clean. That will provide optimal airflow performance and stop the freeze and thaw cycles. But there are more reasons than that to keep it clean:


    Consistent Comfort - Maximizing airflow through the coil prevents hot or cold spots, ensuring every corner of your home or office remains comfortable year-round.


    Improved Energy Efficiency - A clean coil without dust or debris enhances heat exchange, reducing energy consumption and saving you on energy bills. 


    Better Air Quality - Preventing dust, allergens and harmful particles off a dirty coil from circulating in your home or place of business promotes a healthier environment for you and everyone else inside.


    Extended Lifespan -  Regular maintenance reduces system strain, prevents wear and tear, minimizes costly repairs, and prolonging your unit’s longevity. 

  • Should I get my HVAC ducts cleaned?

    To clean or not to clean – that is the question, which we get a lot. If you are thinking about cleaning your ductwork it's important that you start by finding out what type you have. 


    If you have sheet metal ducts, cleaning can certainly improve airflow and reduce allergen spread.


    However, sometimes it is better to replace instead of clean. Especially if you have flex ducts which are easily damaged by brushes, vacuums, or chemicals because they are essentially insulated foil skin over a wire skeleton. Poking a hole in flex duct leads to increased cooling costs and moisture damage.


    The same goes for refraining from cleaning ductboard or fiberglass ducts. Running a brush or other agitation over the sides can release fiber and particles. You want to avoid circulating dangerous particles that are harmful to your lungs. 


    So ultimately, it's important to consider your options carefully and protect your health. And that starts with knowing what kind of ducts you have.

  • How do I know whether the reason for my higher energy bills are airflow-related?

    The main reasons for higher HVAC energy bills stem from inefficiency. Either inefficiency of operation, or of insulation.


    Blocking any portion of your return duct will hamper airflow, causing your HVAC system to work harder. This added strain not only lowers efficiency but also shortens the lifespan of the unit. 


    The incorrect configuration of some return ducts can drastically reduce conditioning efficiency by over 20-25% because of the unnecessary airflow restriction. Please, don’t pay 20% more per month due to faulty ductwork installation. 


    Instead, we recommend adding a ductwork transition that removes any unnecessary obstructions to allow for 100% airflow efficiency. 

  • What can I do to stop constantly having to replace minisplits?

    The indoor unit is one part of a greater whole. But because it's visible, it's easy to forget what the constant onslaught of sunshine, rain, and wind can do over time to the exterior components of your HVAC system. That is, until the system fails. 


    Here are some simple steps you can take to protect the connections between an air handler and heat pump:


    1. Make sure any wall penetrations are completely sealed up to avoid water intrusion and leaks. 
    2. Replace disintegrating pipe insulation. 
    3. Cover, shield or shroud exposed wires and pipes properly. 
    4. Secure any hanging cables so they can’t be pulled on, tripped over, or jarred out. 
  • How do I help extend the life of my air handler?

    Like any machine, HVAC components will eventually wear out because they aren't engineered to last forever. One strategy to minimize wear and tear on your air handler is reducing airflow restriction.


    If your system struggles to keep your space comfortable, help ensure it can breathe easy.


    For instance: if there are no family members or guests around that will gawk at your air handler closet, go ahead and open up those louvered doors at consistent times throughout the week.


    When friends come by to visit, perhaps you relocated a bookshelf or chair up against a wall, blocking the majority of the return vent. Don’t make your system suck all of its air through a straw… move that obstruction to the other wall.


    Proper air circulation is crucial for efficient heating and cooling, and a clear return ensures your system functions optimally. This can help extend the life of compoents like your air handler.

  • Why does water keep backing up my drain line?

    If water keeps pooling up from the drain line and you find yourself having to vacuum out your drain line every month, that could be because your condensation drain line does not have a proper pitch for effective drainage. 


    The optimal angle is a 1% slope. Any flatter than that, and you will run into clogs and water backing up to your system. Excessive pitch will reduce self-scouring action, leading to a build-up of residue in your line.


    Make sure to keep it in the right range of between 1/8” and 1/2” per foot of line distance, in order to achieve optimal performance.

greater Jacksonville, Florida metropolitan HVAC service area