Kitty Hawk HVAC on the Outer Banks | Tips and How To's

Heating, air conditioning & ventilation tips & how To's

How salt air affects your home on the Outer Banks?

Salt is highly corrosive and permeates everything outdoors as well as attic spaces, utility rooms and even indoors if windows are left open a lot. This is especially hard on heat pumps and air conditioning equipment with many moving parts with coil condition so critical to efficiency on the Outer Banks.

When should you use your Emergency Heat?

Emergency Heat is used when the heat pump itself is not working properly (iced-up,not running,not heating). This function allows the use of the
auxiliary heat (2nd stage supplemental) as the primary heat source, in essence an electric furnace. Aside from this usage, more heat is
available with the normal heat mode.

How often should you have your Air Conditioning Unit Checked?

Heat pumps should be checked twice a year on the Outer Banks, spring once temps are above 65 and fall once temps are below 60.

What temperature should I set my A/C or Heat on to conserve on my electric bill?

Ideally, winter temperature should be set at 68 degrees and a/c setting should be 75. Warmer settings in heat will drastically increase energy usage and in a/c mode,can magnify other problems as well as increase energy use.

What do I do if my AC unit has frozen up?

TURN SYSTEM OFF. If in a/c mode, check to make sure filters are not clogged. If they are replace them, wait until no water is coming out of drains,then return to operation. If there is further trouble or if filters are ok, call for service. The coil must be clear of ice for diagnosis and repair. If heat pump in heat mode, TURN THE SYSTEM TO EMERGENCY HEAT, wait for ice to dissipate. If the ice seemed uniform it is probably a defrost problem and may require service. After the ice is gone, return to operation. If problem reoccurs, call for service. If the ice seems thicker in bands it is a charge problem and will require service.