# Frequently Asked Questions

[ About Us ](#about) [ Emergency HVAC Needs ](#emergency) [ AC Repair &amp; Install ](#ac-repair) [ Heating ](#heating) [ Preferred Partner Plan ](#plan) [ Financing &amp; Rebates ](#financing) [ Indoor Air Quality ](#iaq) [ Insulation ](#insulation) [ Water Heaters ](#waterheaters) [ Commercial ](#commercial) [ Company Trust &amp; Credentials ](#trust) [ New STL Home Owner ](#newhome) [ Pricing &amp; Service Calls ](#pricing)##  About Air Comfort Service 

 Q: How long has Air Comfort Service been in business? **A:** Air Comfort Service has been serving the St. Louis area since 1969 and has been a family-owned and operated heating and cooling company from day 1. We've grown through the decades by earning our customers' trust one home at a time by treating our customers' homes as if they were our own.

 Q: Is Air Comfort Service a reputable HVAC company? **A:** Yes. Air Comfort Service is a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer and an 11-time winner of the Carrier President's Award - the highest honor Carrier bestows. We've also been named a St. Louis Post-Dispatch Top Workplace and hold an A+ rating with the BBB. Our reputation is built on more than five decades of honest service to St. Louis homeowners. [Learn more about our story here.](https://www.aircomfortservice.com/about/)

 Q: What areas does Air Comfort Service serve? **A:** We serve the greater St. Louis metro area, including St. Louis City, St. Louis County, St. Charles County, parts of Jefferson County, and the Metro East. Communities served include Arnold, Chesterfield, Ballwin, Kirkwood, Creve Coeur, Fairview Heights, Festus, Florissant, St. Peters, Troy (MO), Washington, Wentzville, and many more. [Visit here for our full service area.](https://www.aircomfortservice.com/our-service-areas/)

 Q: Is Air Comfort Service family-owned? **A:** Yes. Air Comfort Service has been family-owned and operated since 1969. We're not a franchise or a private equity-backed chain - we're a locally rooted company that has grown because St. Louis families keep coming back and referring their neighbors. [Learn more about our story here.](https://www.aircomfortservice.com/about/)

 Q: What brands of HVAC equipment does Air Comfort Service work on? **A:** We service all major brands of heating and cooling equipment. For new installations, we are a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer and install Carrier systems, but our technicians are trained and equipped to repair any brand already in your home.

 Q: How do I schedule service with Air Comfort Service? **A:** You can call us at (314) 819-0028, [schedule online here](http://aircomfortservice.com/book-online/), or request [a free HVAC replacement quote here](http://aircomfortservice.com/get-a-free-quote/). We're available 24/7 for emergency service, and our team is ready to help Monday through Friday 7:30am-4:30pm, with Saturday hours as well.

##  Emergency HVAC Service 

 Q: Does Air Comfort Service offer 24/7 emergency HVAC service? **A:** Yes. Air Comfort Service provides 24/7 emergency heating, cooling, and water heater service, 365 days a year. If your AC goes out in the middle of a St. Louis summer night or your furnace stops working in January, we pick up - and we show up. Call us any time at (314) 819-0028.

 Q: My AC stopped working. What should I do? **A:** Sometimes, an AC can stop working for something as simple as a thermostat setting or a dirty filter. If the system isn't cooling, don't suffer through it, call Air Comfort Service at (314) 819-0028. If you notice ice or water pooling by your indoor or outdoor unit, turn it off and let it thaw before a technician arrives. We offer same-day emergency AC repair throughout the St. Louis area, and our technicians provide upfront pricing before any work begins. You can also visit our [emergency AC page](http://aircomfortservice.com/emergencyac/) to schedule online. Want to learn more about why your AC could be struggling?

 Q: How fast can Air Comfort Service respond to an HVAC emergency? **A:** We prioritize same-day emergency service. If we're not able to get to you the same day, we typically will be able to in 24 hours. Preferred Partner Plan members receive priority scheduling, meaning they move to the front of the line. All customers calling with a broken AC or no heat can expect a same-day response. We understand that a heating or cooling emergency isn't something that can wait.

 Q: My furnace stopped working in the middle of the night. Who do I call? **A:** Call Air Comfort Service at (314) 819-0028. We have technicians available around the clock for emergency furnace and heating repairs throughout the St. Louis metro. We'll give you an accurate diagnosis and upfront pricing with no surprises.

 Q: Does Air Comfort Service charge extra for after-hours emergency service? **A:** After-hours emergency service does carry an additional fee. Our standard Trip &amp; Diagnostic fee for Service Calls is $99. After hours, the rate is $199. Preferred Partner Plan members receive a 50% discount on after-hours emergency fees as part of their plan benefits.

##  Air Conditioning - Repair &amp; Installation 

 Q: How do I know if my air conditioner needs to be repaired or replaced? **A:** In the HVAC industry, the $5,000 rule states that if the age in years of your system multiplied by the cost of a repair is over $5,000, you should replace it. However, if your AC system is under 10 years old and the repair cost is less than half the cost of a new system, repair usually makes sense. Keep in mind, the average HVAC system lasts 12-15 years. We offer free second opinions on costly repairs like AC compressors and heat exchangers. Should you repair or replace? [Use this free tool to make an informed decision.](https://www.aircomfortservice.com/repairorreplace/)

 Q: What are the signs my AC needs repair? **A:** Common signs include: the system is running but not cooling the house, you hear unusual noises (grinding, banging, or squealing), your energy bills have jumped unexpectedly, the system is short-cycling (turning on and off frequently), or you notice ice forming on the unit. If you're experiencing any of these, call us at [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) for a diagnosis.

 Q: How much does AC repair cost in St. Louis? **A:** AC repair costs vary depending on the diagnosis. Minor repairs can be quite affordable; major component repairs cost more. Air Comfort Service always provides upfront pricing before beginning any work - you'll know what it costs before we touch anything. Call [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) or [book online](http://aircomfortservice.com/book-online) to schedule a diagnostic visit.

 Q: Does Air Comfort Service offer free estimates on new AC systems? **A:** Yes. Air Comfort Service provides free estimates on all new equipment installations, like AC and furnaces. Call [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) or visit [our get a quote page](/get-a-free-quote/) to get started.

 Q: What is a SEER2 rating and why does it matter when buying a new AC? **A:** SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2) is the updated federal standard for measuring air conditioner efficiency. A higher SEER2 rating means the unit uses less energy to cool your home, which translates to lower utility bills. Missouri's climate - hot, humid summers with cold winters - makes efficiency especially valuable. When Air Comfort Service installs your new system, we'll explain the SEER2 options available and help you find the right balance of upfront cost and long-term savings.

##  Heating - Furnace &amp; Heat Pump 

 Q: How do I know if my furnace needs to be repaired or replaced? **A:** In the HVAC industry, the $5,000 rule states that if the age in years of your system multiplied by the cost of a repair is over $5,000, you should replace it. However, if your furnace is under 10 years old and the repair cost is less than half the cost of a new system, repair usually makes sense. Keep in mind, the average HVAC system lasts 12-15 years. We offer free second opinions on costly repairs like AC compressors and heat exchangers. Should you repair or replace? [Use this free tool to make an informed decision.](/repairorreplace/)

 Q: Does Air Comfort Service repair all furnace brands? **A:** Yes. Our technicians are trained to diagnose and repair all major furnace brands. Whether you have a system installed by us or inherited one from a previous homeowner, we can help.

 Q: What is a heat pump and is one right for my St. Louis home? **A:** A heat pump is an all-in-one heating and cooling system that moves heat rather than generating it - making it significantly more energy efficient than a traditional furnace and AC combination. Modern cold-climate heat pumps perform well in St. Louis winters. Call [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) or [visit our pump page](/air-conditioning/heat-pump/) to learn more.

 Q: Does Air Comfort Service offer boiler repair and service? **A:** Yes. We repair and service boiler systems in the St. Louis area. [Visit our boiler repair page](/heating/boiler-repair/) or call [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) to schedule service.

 Q: What should I do if my furnace stops working? **A:** Check your thermostat and make sure it's set to 'heat' and above the current room temperature. Check your air filter - a clogged filter can cause a furnace to shut down as a safety measure. Call Air Comfort Service at [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028). We offer 24/7 emergency heating repair throughout St. Louis.

 Q: Does Air Comfort Service offer a free second opinion on heat exchanger failures? **A:** Yes. Heat exchanger diagnoses can sometimes be a significant repair or replacement recommendation. Air Comfort Service offers a free second opinion on heat exchanger and compressor diagnoses, so you can be confident in the recommendation you've received. Should you repair or replace? [Use our free Repair or Replace tool to make an informed decision.](/repairorreplace)

##  HVAC Maintenance &amp; the Preferred Partner Plan 

 Q: What is the Air Comfort Service Preferred Partner Plan? **A:** The Preferred Partner Plan (PPP) is our HVAC maintenance membership, starting at $19/month. It includes two annual system checks (both cooling and heating are checked on both visits), priority scheduling, 50% off after-hours emergency service fees, and discounts on repairs and equipment. It's a 12-month contract with monthly or annual payment options - if you pay monthly, your 12th month is free.

 Q: Why do I need regular HVAC maintenance? **A:** Your HVAC system needs regular maintenance like your car. Regular maintenance keeps it running efficiently, prevents unexpected breakdowns, extends the life of your equipment, and keeps your manufacturer's warranty intact. In St. Louis, where you might run your air conditioning and your heat in the same week, staying on top of maintenance makes a real difference.

 Q: What is included in an AC clean &amp; check from Air Comfort Service? **A:** Our AC clean &amp; check is a comprehensive inspection of your air conditioning system. Our technician checks refrigerant levels, inspects electrical components, cleans the condensate drain, checks the blower and motor, inspects the evaporator and condenser coils, and tests overall system performance. You'll receive a full report of the system's condition and any recommendations.

 Q: What is included in a furnace clean &amp; check? **A:** Our furnace clean &amp; check covers a thorough inspection of your furnace. This includes checking the heat exchanger, burners, ignitor, safety controls, blower motor, filters, and flue connections, and verifying proper operation and efficiency. We also provide heat pump and boiler clean &amp; checks.

 Q: How is the Preferred Partner Plan HVAC System Check different from a one-time clean &amp; check? **A:** The Preferred Partner Plan HVAC system check has the same quality inspection and cleaning as a clean &amp; check, but includes both heating and cooling systems. This way, the timing of your service is less important because both sides of your system are maintained on each visit.

 Q: Does Air Comfort Service cover multiple HVAC systems under one plan? **A:** Yes. We offer multi-system discounts for homes with more than one HVAC system. Contact us at [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) or visit [our partner plan page](/preferred-partner-plan/) for details.

 /preferred-partner-plan/ **A:** Most standard 1-inch filters should be replaced every 30-60 days, especially in St. Louis during peak heating and cooling seasons. Thicker media filters (3-5 inches) typically last 3-6 months. If you have pets, run your system frequently, or anyone in the household has allergies, replace filters more frequently.

##  Financing &amp; Rebates 

 Q: Does Air Comfort Service offer financing on new HVAC systems? **A:** Yes. Air Comfort Service offers flexible financing through Wells Fargo with approved credit. Options include convenient monthly payments, fast credit decisions, and easy online account management. We also offer 0% APR financing options on qualifying equipment purchases for qualified borrowers. Call [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) or visit [our financing page](http://aircomfortservice.com/financing/) to apply.

 Q: Are there rebates available on new HVAC systems in St. Louis? **A:** Yes. Carrier frequently offers seasonal rebates. To see what Cool Cash rebates are available right now, visit [our Cool Cash page](http://aircomfortservice.com/coolcash) or call [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028).

 Q: Can I get a tax credit for a new heat pump in Missouri in 2026? **A: No.** The Residential Clean Energy Credit expired December 31, 2025.

 Q: What does 'Carrier Cool Cash' mean? **A:** Carrier Cool Cash is a manufacturer rebate program that allows St. Louis homeowners to save on qualifying new Carrier HVAC equipment installations. These are limited-time seasonal promotions. As a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer, Air Comfort Service participates in these programs and passes the savings along to our customers. Check [our Cool Cash page](http://aircomfortservice.com/coolcash/) for current offers.

##  Indoor Air Quality 

 Q: How can I improve the air quality in my St. Louis home? **A:** Air Comfort Service offers a full range of indoor air quality solutions, including whole-home air purifiers, UV germicidal lamps, whole-home humidifiers, dehumidifiers, and Aeroseal duct sealing. The right solution depends on your specific concerns - whether that's dust, allergens, humidity control, or biological contaminants. Call [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) or visit [our Air Quality page](http://aircomfortservice.com/air-quality/) for a consultation.

 Q: What does a whole-home humidifier do, and do I need one? **A:** St. Louis winters are dry, and low indoor humidity causes dry skin, cracked wood floors and furniture, increased static electricity, and can make respiratory issues worse. A whole-home humidifier connects to your HVAC system and automatically maintains your home's humidity at a comfortable level all winter long. It's more effective and lower-maintenance than portable units, and it protects your home's structure and finishes. Visit [our Humidifier page](http://aircomfortservice.com/air-quality/humidifiers/) for more information.

 Q: What is Aeroseal duct sealing and how does it help? **A:** Aeroseal is a patented duct sealing process that seals leaks from the inside of your ductwork using aerosol-based sealant particles. Studies show that the average home loses 20-30% of conditioned air through duct leaks. Aeroseal can recover much of that lost efficiency, reducing your energy bills and improving comfort in every room. Air Comfort Service is certified to perform Aeroseal treatments in the St. Louis area. Visit [our Aeroseal duct sealing page](http://aircomfortservice.com/air-conditioning/aeroseal-duct-service/) or call [314-819-0028](tel:aircomfortservice.com/air-conditioning/aeroseal-duct-service/).

##  Insulation 

 Q: Does Air Comfort Service install attic insulation? **A:** Yes. Air Comfort Service offers complete attic insulation services in St. Louis, including removal of old or damaged insulation, installation of new insulation, and air sealing to close gaps where conditioned air escapes. Air Comfort Service offers blown-in fiberglass and cellulose insulation. Proper attic insulation is one of the most cost-effective upgrades a St. Louis homeowner can make - it can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 30%. Visit [our insulation page](http://aircomfortservice.com/insulation/) or call [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) for a free estimate.

 Q: How do I know if my attic insulation needs to be replaced? **A:** Signs that your insulation may need attention include uneven temperatures throughout the house, high energy bills that don't reflect your usage habits, drafts near the ceiling or in upper-floor rooms, ice dams forming on the roof in winter, or insulation that is visibly thin, damaged, wet, or more than 15 years old. Many St. Louis homes - particularly those built in the 1970s, '80s, and '90s - have insulation that no longer meets current efficiency standards. Visit [our insulation page](https://www.aircomfortservice.com/insulation/) to see how to measure your insulation R value and to find out what you could save with attic insulation.

 Q: Can attic insulation qualify for a tax credit in 2026? **A No.** The Residential Clean Energy Credit expired December 31, 2025.

##  Water Heaters 

 Q: Does Air Comfort Service repair and install water heaters? **A:** Yes. Air Comfort Service installs and services water heaters throughout the St. Louis metro, including traditional tank-style water heaters and tankless (on-demand) water heaters. We can help you choose the right size and type for your household. Note: we are unable to service Kenmore, Whirlpool, or Menards brand water heaters, and we cannot install water heaters within St. Louis City limits.

 Q: My water heater is making a rumbling noise. What does that mean? **A:** Rumbling or popping sounds are typically caused by sediment buildup on the bottom of the tank - a common issue in the St. Louis area due to mineral content in the water. Over time, this reduces efficiency and can damage the tank. Flushing the tank can sometimes resolve it; if the buildup is extensive, replacement may be the better option. Call Air Comfort Service at [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) for a water heater evaluation.

##  Commercial HVAC 

 Q: Does Air Comfort Service work on commercial HVAC systems? **A:** Yes. Air Comfort Service provides full-service commercial HVAC for businesses throughout the St. Louis metro. Our commercial services include repair and maintenance of rooftop units (RTUs), PTAC units, chillers, water coolers, ventilation systems, controls, and energy management systems. We also offer custom preventative maintenance plans tailored to your facility's equipment and schedule. Call our commercial line at [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) for more information.

 Q: My water heater is making a rumbling noise. What does that mean? **A:** Rumbling or popping sounds are typically caused by sediment buildup on the bottom of the tank - a common issue in the St. Louis area due to mineral content in the water. Over time, this reduces efficiency and can damage the tank. Flushing the tank can sometimes resolve it; if the buildup is extensive, replacement may be the better option. Call Air Comfort Service at [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) for a water heater evaluation.

 Q: Does Air Comfort Service offer commercial HVAC maintenance agreements? **A:** Yes. We offer custom Preventive Maintenance Plans (PMs) for commercial clients. These are tailored to your specific equipment, building schedule, and service requirements. Contact our commercial department at [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) to discuss a plan for your facility.

##  Company Trust &amp; Credentials 

 Q: Does Air Comfort Service offer a referral reward program? **A:** Yes. If you refer a friend, neighbor, or family member to Air Comfort Service and they become a paying customer, you'll receive a $50 check. It's our way of saying thank you for sharing a company you trust. Visit [our referral page](http://aircomfortservice.com/referralrewards/) for details.

 Q: Does Air Comfort Service have good reviews? **A:** Air Comfort Service maintains an excellent reputation across Google, Facebook, and other review platforms. Our customers frequently highlight our technicians by name, praising their professionalism, punctuality, clear communication, and honest pricing.[ You can read verified customer reviews here](http://aircomfortservice.com/reviews).

 Q: Does Air Comfort Service offer upfront pricing? **A:** Yes. We provide upfront pricing before beginning any work. You'll know exactly what a repair or installation costs before we start - no hidden fees, no surprises.

##  New Homeowners in St. Louis 

 Q: I just bought a home in St. Louis. What should I do about the HVAC system? **A:** The first step is a professional system check. When you buy a home, you inherit whatever HVAC equipment - and whatever maintenance, or lack thereof - the previous owners left behind. Air Comfort Service offers cooling system and heating system checks that give you a clear picture of the condition of your equipment, estimated remaining lifespan, and any issues that need attention. Starting with a clean assessment means no surprises down the road. Call [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) to schedule your first visit.

 Q: How long does an HVAC system last in St. Louis? **A:** In the St. Louis climate - where systems run hard in both summer and winter - a well-maintained HVAC system typically lasts 12-15 years.

 Q: What's the first HVAC service I should schedule in my new St. Louis home? **A:** Schedule a clean &amp; check - ideally both a cooling system check and a heating system check within your first year. These inspections give you a baseline understanding of your equipment's condition and help you plan ahead. If you join the Preferred Partner Plan, you'll receive two heating and cooling system checks each year, plus priority scheduling and repair discounts, starting at just $19/month.

##  Pricing &amp; Service Calls 

 Q: How much does an AC clean &amp; check cost? **A:** Our AC clean &amp; check is $98.95 for the first system. If you have a second system, the additional unit is $93.95 -- so two systems are $192.90. This includes a full performance evaluation of your air conditioning equipment. Preferred Partner Plan members receive HVAC system checks (twice annually, both cooling and heating) at no additional charge as part of their membership starting at $19/month. Call [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) or visit [our AC Systems Check page](http://aircomfortservice.com/ac-system-check/) to schedule.

 Q: What is the difference between a clean &amp; check and a diagnostic service call? **A:** A cooling system check ($98.95) is a routine maintenance visit for a system that is running normally -- we inspect, clean, and verify everything is operating correctly. A diagnostic service call ($99) is what we perform when your system has a problem -- it is not cooling, making a noise, or has stopped working. We need to diagnose the issue before we can repair it. If you call for a routine system check, but your system is already malfunctioning, a diagnostic fee applies so we can properly assess and fix the problem. If you are unsure which you need, call us, and we will help you: [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028).

 Q: How much does the Preferred Partner Plan cost? **A:** The Preferred Partner Plan starts at $19/month for one system, which equals $228 per year. If you choose monthly auto-pay, your 12th month is free -- bringing your effective annual cost to $209. For homes with two HVAC systems, the annual rate is $410.40 with multi-system discounts applied. The plan is a 12-month contract with monthly or annual payment options. Call [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) or visit [our Preferred Partner Plan page](http://aircomfortservice.com/preferred-partner-plan/) to enroll.

 Q: What discounts do Preferred Partner Plan members get on repairs? **A:** Preferred Partner Plan members receive 50% off diagnostic fees, 50% off after-hours diagnostics, 15% off repairs, and 5% off new equipment purchases. Combined with priority scheduling and two included HVAC system checks per year, the plan typically pays for itself with just one repair visit. Call [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) for details.

 Q: Will skipping regular maintenance void my HVAC warranty? **A:** Possibly, yes. Most HVAC manufacturers require documented annual maintenance to keep the warranty valid. If your system fails and you cannot show records of routine maintenance, the manufacturer may deny a warranty claim. The Preferred Partner Plan includes two system checks per year and documents each visit -- which protects your warranty coverage. This is especially important for newer systems still within the manufacturer warranty period. Call [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) if you have questions about your specific equipment.

 Q: My AC has ice or frost forming on the lines or coils. What should I do? **A:** Turn off your air conditioning immediately and switch the thermostat fan setting to fan-only mode (not auto). This lets the ice melt without damaging the compressor. A frozen coil is usually caused by one of two things: a dirty air filter restricting airflow, or low refrigerant. Check and replace your filter first -- if the system still freezes after thawing and running again, call Air Comfort Service at [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028). Low refrigerant requires a technician and should not wait.

 Q: My AC is running but not cooling the house. What could cause that? **A:** The most common causes are a dirty or clogged air filter, low refrigerant (which can also cause the coil to freeze), a dirty outdoor condenser unit blocked by debris, a tripped circuit breaker, or a failing compressor. Start by checking your filter and making sure the outdoor unit is clear of leaves and debris. If the system still is not cooling, call us at [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) -- we offer same-day service throughout St. Louis and will diagnose the problem with upfront pricing before any repairs begin.

 Q: When should I repair my HVAC system versus replace it? **A:** The HVAC industry has a $5,000 rule: multiply the cost of your repair by the age in years of your system. If the result is over $5,000, you may want to replace. However, the average HVAC system lasts 12-15 years, so if your system is on the younger side, that may change your thinking. Use our free tool to help make an informed repair or replacement decision: <https://www.aircomfortservice.com/repairorreplace/> .

 Q: I heard an ad about a free second opinion on my HVAC. What does that cover? **A:** Air Comfort Service offers a free second opinion specifically on heat exchanger failures and compressor diagnoses -- two of the most expensive recommendations you can receive from an HVAC technician. If another company has told you your heat exchanger is cracked or your compressor has failed, we will send our own technician to verify that diagnosis at no charge. For replacement quotes, we also offer free in-home estimates. Call [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) to learn more.

 Q: My AC has water dripping or leaking inside the house. Is that serious? **A:** It can be. The most common cause is a clogged condensate drain line -- the tube that carries moisture collected by your AC out of the house. When it clogs, water backs up and can overflow the drain pan, potentially damaging ceilings, walls, and floors. In the short term, turn off your system to stop the overflow. Call Air Comfort Service at [314-819-0028](tel:314-819-0028) to schedule a service visit.