Boothe’s HVAC provides reliable heating and cooling services for homes throughout Hollywood, MD and Annapolis. This FAQ page covers common questions about HVAC systems, maintenance, repairs, and installation to help Maryland homeowners make informed decisions about their home comfort systems.
How often should I change my HVAC air filters?
Most air filters need replacement every 1-3 months, though Maryland’s humid subtropical climate often pushes this toward the shorter end. Standard fiberglass filters (MERV 1-4) capture only about 20% of airborne particles and need monthly changes, while pleated MERV 11-13 filters trap 95% of PM2.5 particles and can last 60-90 days under normal conditions.
Several factors affect how quickly your filter gets dirty:
- Homes with pets experience faster buildup from pet dander and fur
- High-dust environments or frequent candle use accelerate clogging
- Running your system continuously during peak summer or heating season
- Proximity to construction or unpaved roads
Signs you need early replacement include visible dirt accumulation, reduced airflow from vents, dustier surfaces throughout your home, or your system running longer than usual. A clogged filter increases static pressure to 0.5 in. w.c. or higher, reducing efficiency by 5-15% and increasing your energy bills unnecessarily.
What size HVAC system do I need for my home?
Proper sizing requires far more than multiplying your square footage by a standard number. A 2,000 square foot home in Annapolis might need anywhere from 2 to 4 tons of cooling capacity depending on construction details and occupancy patterns.
Key factors affecting system size include:
- Home square footage and ceiling heights
- Insulation R-values in walls, attic, and floors
- Window quantity, size, orientation, and glazing type
- Number of occupants and heat-generating appliances
- Local climate data specific to Southern Maryland
An oversized AC system creates serious comfort problems. It cools too quickly, shutting off before adequately removing humidity—leaving your home feeling clammy despite reaching the thermostat setpoint. Short-cycling (under 10-minute cycles) doubles compressor wear and increases energy use.
Undersized equipment runs constantly without reaching comfortable temperatures, driving up energy bills while failing to provide proper temperature control. Boothe’s HVAC performs Manual J load calculations to determine exact requirements, preventing the 20-25% efficiency loss that comes from improper sizing.
What are the most common HVAC problems in Maryland?
Maryland homeowners from Hollywood to Annapolis encounter several recurring issues tied to our regional climate:
- Refrigerant leaks. Low refrigerant (under 100 psi suction pressure) causes poor cooling performance and potential compressor damage. Professional detection using electronic sniffers is required under EPA 608 certification.
- Dirty coils and filters. High humidity accelerates buildup on evaporator and condenser coils, reducing heat transfer efficiency by 20-30%.
- Frozen evaporator coils. Restricted airflow from dirty filters or low refrigerant charge causes ice formation, blocking cold air distribution entirely.
- Capacitor and electrical failures. Summer heat stress and frequent cycling wear electrical components faster in our climate.
- Drainage problems. Condensate lines clog with algae and mold growth, common in humid conditions, causing water damage or system shutdowns.
- Poor airflow from duct issues. Leaky or poorly insulated ductwork wastes up to 30% of conditioned air before it reaches living spaces.
Seasonal patterns show AC unit problems peak June through August when systems run near-continuously, while heating system issues emerge in November through February when furnaces and heat pumps resume operation after months of dormancy.
How often should I schedule HVAC maintenance?
Twice-yearly professional maintenance delivers the best results for Maryland homes: once in spring before cooling season and once in fall before heating season. This schedule addresses both sides of your HVAC system when they matter most.
Spring AC tune-ups typically include:
- Checking refrigerant levels and pressure
- Cleaning evaporator and condenser coils
- Inspecting electrical connections and capacitors
- Testing thermostat calibration
- Clearing condensate drain lines
- Measuring airflow and static pressure
Fall heating system checks cover:
- Inspecting heat exchangers for cracks
- Testing ignition and safety controls
- Checking gas connections or heat pump reversing valves
- Measuring combustion efficiency
- Verifying carbon monoxide safety
Regular proper maintenance prevents the 20-30% cost increases associated with neglected systems. Maryland’s demanding climate—hot humid summers reaching 90°F+ with 70%+ relative humidity and winter temperatures dipping below 20°F—puts significant stress on HVAC systems that annual service alone can’t adequately address.
Should I repair or replace my HVAC system?
Air conditioners and heat pumps typically last 15-20 years, while furnaces can reach 20-25 years with proper care. However, age alone doesn’t determine the answer.
Consider replacement when:
- Your system is over 10-15 years old AND requires repairs exceeding 50% of replacement cost
- Repairs are becoming frequent (multiple service calls per year)
- Energy bills have increased significantly despite maintenance
- Your system uses R-22 refrigerant (phased out, increasingly expensive)
- Comfort problems persist despite repeated repairs
Modern equipment offers substantial improvements. New HVAC systems achieve SEER ratings of 14-28 compared to older units at 8-10 SEER, potentially cutting cooling costs 30-40%. Variable-speed compressors and ECM blower motors provide 20-30% energy savings while delivering more consistent temperatures.
Heat pumps now qualify for $2,000 federal IRA rebates, making replacement more financially attractive. Boothe’s technicians provide transparent assessments comparing repair costs against new system benefits for your specific situation.
Why is my HVAC system making strange noises?
Different sounds indicate different problems, and knowing which require immediate attention can prevent costly damage:
- Grinding or metal-on-metal usually indicates failing motor bearings or a loose blower wheel. Shut down the system and call for service to prevent motor burnout.
- Banging or clanking often means a broken or disconnected component inside the air handler or outdoor compressor. This requires immediate attention.
- Squealing or screeching typically worn belts or motor issues. While not immediately dangerous, continued operation accelerates wear.
- Rattling may indicate loose panels, debris in the outdoor unit, or deteriorating ductwork. Often repairable during a routine service call.
- Clicking during startup normal for most systems, but persistent clicking without the system starting suggests electrical or control problems.
- Bubbling or gurgling could indicate low refrigerant levels or a refrigerant leak requiring professional diagnosis.
Unusual noises warrant prompt inspection. What starts as a minor issue often escalates quickly—a $150 repair can become a $1,500 problem if ignored.
What is the HVAC installation process?
Professional installation involves considerably more than swapping equipment. A systematic approach ensures your new HVAC system performs at maximum efficiency for its full lifespan.
- In-home evaluation – Technicians assess your current system, measure ductwork, evaluate electrical capacity, and perform Manual J load calculations to determine proper system size.
- System selection – Based on the evaluation, you’ll receive recommendations matching your home’s requirements, comfort goals, and budget. Options include standard split systems, ductless mini split systems, or heat pumps.
- Removal of old equipment – The existing indoor unit, outdoor unit, and any obsolete components are disconnected and properly disposed of, including environmentally responsible refrigerant recovery.
- New system installation – The indoor unit and outdoor compressor are positioned and connected. This includes refrigerant line installation, electrical connections, and condensate drainage setup.
- Ductwork modifications – If needed, technicians seal leaks, repair damage, or modify connections to optimize airflow for the new equipment.
- System testing – Comprehensive checks verify refrigerant charge, electrical operation, airflow measurements, and thermostat communication.
- Final walkthrough – Technicians explain system operation, thermostat programming, filter locations, and maintenance requirements. All warranty documentation is reviewed.
How long does HVAC installation take?
Standard replacement installations—where a similar system replaces existing equipment using current ductwork—typically complete in one day, usually 6-10 hours.
Factors extending installation time include:
- Switching from one system type to another (furnace to heat pump, for example)
- Adding or modifying ductwork
- Electrical panel upgrades
- Zoning system installation
- Ductless mini split installations requiring multiple indoor units
- Difficult access to installation locations
Complex projects may span 2-3 days. Boothe’s HVAC provides clear timeline estimates before work begins, keeping you informed if circumstances require adjustments.
Can I install my own HVAC system?
HVAC installation requires specialized training, tools, and certifications that make DIY installation impractical and potentially dangerous.
Technical requirements include:
- EPA Section 608 certification for handling refrigerants
- Electrical licensing for high-voltage connections
- Understanding of local building codes and permit requirements
- Specialized tools for brazing, evacuation, and charging
- Knowledge of proper load calculations and system sizing
Risks of DIY installation include:
- Voided manufacturer warranties (most require licensed installation)
- Failed inspections and code violations
- Improper refrigerant charge reducing efficiency 25% or more
- Safety hazards from incorrect electrical or gas connections
- Reduced system lifespan from installation errors
Professional installation ensures your system operates at rated efficiency, maintains valid warranty coverage, meets all code requirements, and receives proper commissioning to verify performance.
Will a new HVAC system save me money?
Yes, particularly if you’re replacing equipment more than 10-15 years old. Maryland homeowners average $1,200 annually in HVAC-related energy costs, and efficient air conditioning units can substantially reduce this figure.
Energy efficiency improvements in modern equipment include:
- SEER ratings of 20+ versus 10-12 in older units (40-50% cooling cost reduction)
- Variable-speed compressors that modulate output rather than cycling on/off
- ECM blower motors using 80% less electricity than older PSC motors
- Improved heat pump performance with COP ratings of 2.5-4.0
A 2,500 square foot Annapolis home upgrading from a 10 SEER system to a 20 SEER heat pump typically saves $400 or more annually—often 35% reduction in heating and cooling costs.
Available incentives include federal IRA tax credits up to $2,000 for qualifying heat pumps, plus potential utility rebates. Beyond utility savings, new systems deliver better humidity control, more consistent temperatures, and reduced repair costs during their first decade of operation.
How do heat pumps perform in Maryland winters?
Modern heat pumps operate efficiently throughout Maryland’s typical winter conditions. While temperatures occasionally drop below 20°F, our region’s moderate climate falls well within heat pump operating range.
Heat pumps extract heat from outdoor air even at low temperatures, delivering 2.5-4 times more heating energy than they consume in electricity (COP of 2.5-4.0). This makes them far more efficient than electric resistance heating and competitive with gas furnaces for overall operating cost.
Performance considerations for Maryland:
- Most days remain above 35°F, where heat pumps operate at peak efficiency
- Below 35°F, efficiency decreases but units continue providing heat
- Supplemental electric heat strips activate during extreme cold or high-demand periods
- Dual-fuel systems pair heat pumps with gas furnaces for coldest conditions
Compared to traditional furnaces (COP of 1.0), heat pumps deliver significant savings during heating season. The 40% growth in heat pump installations from 2015-2025 reflects their proven performance in Mid-Atlantic climates. Boothe’s can assess whether a heat pump suits your specific situation.
What causes poor indoor air quality in Maryland homes?
Several factors common to our region contribute to indoor air quality problems:
- High humidity. Summer relative humidity often exceeds 70%, promoting mold growth and dust mite populations. Homes need consistent 50% RH to prevent these issues.
- Seasonal allergens. Pollen from trees, grasses, and ragweed infiltrates homes through ventilation and normal activity, peaking spring through fall.
- Pet dander and dust. Accumulates in ductwork and recirculates through the home with every HVAC cycle.
- Inadequate ventilation. Tightly sealed homes may not exchange enough fresh air, allowing CO2 and pollutants to accumulate.
- Dirty ductwork. Years of debris buildup distributes particles throughout living spaces.
HVAC solutions for improved air quality include:
- Upgrading to MERV 11-13 pleated filters capturing 95% of fine particles
- Installing whole-home dehumidifiers maintaining 50% RH
- Adding electronic air cleaners or UV light systems that kill bacteria and viruses
- Ensuring proper ventilation rates per ASHRAE standards (7.5 CFM per person)
- Professional duct cleaning and sealing
Boothe’s offers air quality assessments to identify specific issues in your home and recommend appropriate solutions.
How can I improve my HVAC system’s efficiency?
Several steps help your system works at reduced efficiency less often and maximum efficiency more:
- Optimize thermostat settings. Set to 78°F summer and 68°F winter. Each degree of setback saves 3-5% on energy bills. A programmable thermostat or smart thermostat can automate setbacks during sleep and away periods, cutting energy use 10-20%.
- Maintain clean filters. Replace filters monthly during heavy-use seasons to prevent poor airflow and energy waste.
- Seal air leaks. Weather-strip windows and doors, seal ductwork joints, and address gaps around penetrations. Duct sealing alone can recover 20-30% of lost conditioned air.
- Ensure adequate insulation. Attic insulation to R-49 and wall insulation to R-19 reduce transmission losses significantly.
- Keep outdoor compressor clear. Maintain 2 feet of clearance around the unit for proper airflow.
- Close blinds during peak sun. Reduces solar heat gain of 200 BTU/hr per square foot of window.
Professional services delivering efficiency gains include duct sealing, refrigerant charge verification, coil cleaning, and blower motor upgrades. Annual maintenance catches efficiency losses before they impact your energy bills significantly.
What is HVAC zoning and do I need it?
HVAC zoning divides your home into separate temperature control areas, each with its own thermostat and damper-controlled ductwork. This allows different rooms or floors to maintain different temperatures simultaneously.
Zoning benefits include:
- Eliminating hot and cold spots common in multi-level homes
- Reducing energy use by conditioning only occupied areas
- Accommodating different comfort preferences among family members
- Addressing rooms with high solar gain or poor insulation without overcooling others
Ideal candidates for zoning systems:
- Multi-story homes where upper floors run warmer
- Homes with finished basements or bonus rooms
- Houses with large windows causing uneven solar heating
- Homes where some rooms are rarely used
Zoning systems modulate airflow 30-100% to each zone based on thermostat demands. Energy savings typically range 20-30% compared to conditioning the entire home uniformly. For historic Annapolis homes where adding separate ductless mini split systems might be preferable to extensive duct modifications, both options deliver zone-by-zone control.
How much do HVAC repairs typically cost?
Repair costs vary significantly based on the problem, required parts, and system type. General ranges for common repairs:
- Capacitor replacement: $150-$300
- Refrigerant recharge: $200-$500
- Blower motor replacement: $300-$600
- Compressor replacement: $1,200-$2,500
- Heat exchanger replacement: $1,500-$3,000
Factors affecting pricing include:
- Equipment age and parts availability
- System accessibility
- Refrigerant type (R-410A versus older R-22)
- Whether repairs require permit inspection
- Time required for diagnosis and repair
Boothe’s provides transparent pricing with clear explanations before any work begins. Emergency service during after-hours periods carries additional costs due to technician availability requirements. When repair costs approach 50% of replacement value on older equipment, we’ll discuss whether a new system makes more financial sense.
Do you offer maintenance agreements?
Yes. Boothe’s maintenance agreements provide scheduled tune-ups covering both your cooling system and heating system annually, plus additional benefits that protect your investment.
Plan benefits typically include:
- Priority scheduling during peak seasons
- Discounts on repairs and replacement equipment
- No overtime charges for after-hours service calls
- Comprehensive inspection and cleaning visits
- Filter reminders and replacement assistance
Maintenance agreement members avoid the 20-30% efficiency losses and unexpected breakdowns common in neglected systems. The predictable annual cost helps budget for HVAC care while extending equipment lifespan and maintaining warranty validity.
Can I get same-day HVAC service?
Boothe’s offers emergency service for urgent HVAC failures throughout our service area from Hollywood to Annapolis. Same-day response is available for qualifying situations.
- Emergency situations include:
- Complete loss of heating during winter cold snaps
- AC failure during extreme summer heat
- Water leaking from your system causing damage
- Unusual odors suggesting electrical or gas problems
- Carbon monoxide detector activation
- System making dangerous sounds
Our service area coverage ensures technicians can reach homes throughout Southern Maryland and the Annapolis area promptly. After-hours emergency service is available when comfort or safety issues can’t wait until regular business hours. Contact Boothe’s to discuss your specific situation and get answers to your HVAC concerns quickly.