FAQ & Troubleshooting

Check the easy things first. If it is anything more, call (203) 444-8076

Furnace and Filter Questions

Frequently Asked Furnace Questions

Answers from our technicians. A clean filter prevents more problems than anything else.

How often should I change my furnace filter?

It depends on the thickness of your filter. 1 to 2 inch filters: every 1 to 3 months. 3 to 4 inch filters: every 6 to 9 months. 5 to 6 inch filters: every 9 to 12 months.

What happens if I do not change my furnace filter?

The furnace may overheat every time it starts. This is known as short cycling. Dirty filters make your furnace work harder and can damage some parts.

Can I run my furnace without a filter?

No. Never run your furnace or A/C unit without a filter.

Do some units have more than one filter?

Yes. Some larger HVAC systems have more than one filter.

What are some common furnace issues?

Thermostat problems, filter problems, boiler problems and blower problems are the most common. Our YouTube channel has short troubleshooting videos for the simple ones.

Troubleshooting videos

We post short videos that walk you through the simple fixes, like changing a thermostat battery. Watch one here or see them all on our YouTube channel.

Before you call

  • Is the thermostat on, set to Heat or Cool, and set higher or lower than the room temperature?
  • Does the thermostat need a fresh battery?
  • Is the filter clean? A clogged filter can shut a system down.
  • Is the power switch on the unit on, and is the breaker in the panel on?
  • Is the outdoor unit clear of snow, leaves and debris?
Our YouTube Channel Still stuck? Request Service
About Our Service

General Questions

What areas does Advance HVAC Services cover?

We are based in Branford, CT and serve Shoreline Connecticut from Milford to Old Saybrook, including Milford, West Haven, New Haven, East Haven, Branford, North Branford, North Haven, Guilford, Madison, Clinton, Westbrook, Old Saybrook. Call (203) 444-8076 if you are nearby and not sure.

When can I reach you?

We offer 24/7 emergency service. Hours: Every day: Open 24 hours. Call (203) 444-8076 or send a service request from the Contact page.

What do you work on?

Heating, Cooling, Commercial Refrigeration, Home Performance Solutions. Service, repair, maintenance, installation, inspection and estimates on gas and oil furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, central air, mini splits, walk-in coolers and freezers, commercial refrigerators, hot water heaters and more. See the Services page for the full list.

Do you handle commercial jobs?

Yes. We service residential and commercial heating and cooling systems, and we service commercial refrigeration: walk-in coolers, walk-in freezers and commercial refrigerators.

Are you licensed and insured?

Yes. Advance HVAC Services is a licensed and insured HVAC service.

How do I schedule service or get an estimate?

Call (203) 444-8076 or fill in the service request form on the Contact page with your town and the type of system. We will get back to you to set a time.

Can I fix a small problem myself before calling?

Sometimes. Check the FAQ and troubleshooting page and our YouTube channel first: a dirty filter, a thermostat battery or a tripped switch are common and easy fixes. If it is anything beyond that, call us.