Controlled Air

	Operating Your Trane System Efficiently Frequently Asked Questions Maintaining Your System



	Cooling

	1. Set the thermostat as high as comfort will permit. 2. Make sure attics are adequately ventilated to relieve heat buildup. If necessary, improve airflow by adding or enlarging vents. 3. When building a new house or renovating an old one, choose light-colored roof shingles to reflect more of the sun's heat. 4. During moderate weather, don't use the air conditioner unnecessarily. 5. Draw blinds or drapes to block the sunlight during the hottest part of the day. 6. Install awnings over windows exposed to direct sunlight. 7. In the cooling season, don't run kitchen and bath exhaust fans longer than necessary. 8. Don't place lamps, TV sets or other heat producing devices beneath a wall-mounted thermostat. Rising heat from that equipment may cause the air conditioning system to overcool your house.

	Heating

	1. Locate the thermostat on an inside wall away from windows and doors. 2. Set the thermostat as low as comfort permits. Each degree over 68°F can add 3% to the amount of energy needed for heating. 3. People generate heat. So lower the thermostat a degree or two when expecting a large group of guests.

	Insulation

	1. Make sure your home is properly insulated. This is the single most important step in conserving energy. Thermal insulation should be specified in terms of thermal resistance (R-values). R-30 (10") is recommended for ceilings, R-11 (3-1/2) for exterior walls and floors over unheated areas. In colder climates, consider additional insulation. 2. Infiltration of humid outside air is your heating and air conditioning system's worst enemy - it could account for 15 to 30% of air conditioning energy requirements. Find the places where air can sneak into the home and plug them with caulking, weather-stripping or plastic. Also, weather-strip and caulk around all entrance doors and windows. 3. Cut heat transfer through your windows by 40 to 50% with double glazing (two panes of glass separated by a sealed air space) and low-e glass. 4. Use wood- or metal-frame storm windows even if single-glazed windows are high quality. The extra layer of glass and the layer of still air will cut heat transfer considerably. 5. Install storm doors at all entrances to your house. 6. Keep all windows and doors closed. 7. Remember that by increasing the glass area, you increase the amount of heat added in summer and lost in winter. 8. Make sure fireplaces have tight-fitting dampers, which can be closed when the fireplace is not in use. 9. Invest in a humidifier to conserve energy in winter. The air in your home won't be as dry, so you stay comfortable at a lower temperature setting.



	How often should I change or clean my filters?

	Filters should generally be replaced every month when the system is running. Replace filters with the same kind and size as the original filter. If your filter is not disposable, follow the manufacturer instructions for cleaning. If you're using a high-density filter such as an electrostatic filter, check with your local independent Trane dealer, who can raise the external static pressure of your system. If the external static pressure exceeds the design criteria of your system, it can negatively impact the performance and life of your equipment.

	Where is my filter located?

	Your air filter should be located in either the blower compartment of the furnace, in an attached filter case, or in a return air grille in a wall of your home. If you cannot find the air filter, contact your local independent Trane dealer for assistance.

	Where can I purchase filters?

	If you are unable to find the appropriate-size air filter at your local hardware outlet, they may be able to cut-to-fit filters that will also work, or you can contact your local independent Trane dealer.

	What services need to be performed for preventative maintenance on my heating and air conditioning equipment? How often should this maintenance be performed?

	We recommend you have your local independent Trane dealer perform preventative maintenance before the winter heating season and before the summer cooling season. Many local independent Trane dealers offer service agreements that may include reduced rates on labor and parts and provide priority response. Service/maintenance agreements may include cleaning indoor and outdoor coils, tightening electrical connections, checking supply voltage and operating current, checking refrigerant charge, measuring temperature differential at supply and return registers, cleaning blower wheel and motor, inspecting and adjusting burner, checking heat exchangers, cleaning drain lines and pan, checking ductwork for leaks and insulation, and checking thermostat.

	Should I cover my outdoor unit in the winter?

	Covering the unit is not necessary. Air conditioners are manufactured to withstand all possible climate changes. In fact, rain helps keep your unit clean. Of course, because heat pumps run all year long, they should never be covered.

	How close to the outdoor unit should I plant shrubs or flowers?

	Manufacturers generally agree that plants should not be closer than 18 inches. Air conditioners need intake and exhaust air to operate efficiently. If air cannot circulate, the unit could build up heat and require service.

	What are the average life expectancies for heating and air conditioning equipment?

	The average expected life of an air conditioner is approximately 15 years. The average expected life of a heat pump is approximately 10 to 12 years, since it operates year round. The average expected life of a gas furnace or air handler may be longer. Units in corrosive environments, such as, but not limited to coastal installations, will tend to have shorter lives.

	Is there any advantage to setting my thermostat fan to "ON" so the fan runs constantly?

	Yes, there are a couple. The first is that you get constant filtering of the air in your home. The second is that because the air is moving, you have a more even temperature throughout the home. However, continuous fan mode during COOLING operation may not be appropriate in humid climates. If the indoor air exceeds 60% humidity or simply feels uncomfortably humid, it is recommended that the fan be used in AUTO mode.

	I've heard a lot about new refrigerants. Do I need to think about them when buying a system?

	We do not advise homeowners to choose home comfort systems based on the refrigerant they use. The Clean Air Act does not allow ANY refrigerants to be vented into the atmosphere. They must be reclaimed, recycled and reused. Units using the current refrigerant, R-22, will always be serviced with R-22. They will not need to be changed to a different refrigerant. The scheduled phased-out of R-22 allows for plenty of refrigerant to be available to service all cooling units and heat pumps that use R-22 for the life of the equipment. We do offer limited lines of high efficiency comfort systems using R-410A refrigerant. Our gradual introduction of these products has allowed servicers in the field the opportunity to adapt to the required installation and service techniques, to ensure homeowners continue to receive the comfort and value they have chosen. As the HVAC industry gradually and confidently transitions to a new refrigerant, we encourage homeowners to maintain their focus on purchasing energy efficient home comfort products that best meet their comfort needs. Purchasing higher-efficiency air conditioning and heating systems and better sealing our homes will not only improve comfort and reduce energy costs, but will also improve our environment.

	Can I get technical support from Trane to troubleshoot/repair my own equipment?

	No. It is critical that our products and Original Equipment Manufacturer replacement parts be installed and serviced by licensed, qualified independent Trane dealers who have access to product data, service updates, and distributor training. As a manufacturer, we feel that it is in both our customers' and our best interest to ensure that our product delivers the quality, durability, and comfort we advertise and you expect. Please contact your local independent Trane dealer for assistance. Independent Trane dealers are listed in your local Yellow Pages or type in your ZIP code at our Web site's Dealer Locator for a partial list of independent Trane dealers in your area.

	Why do my lights flicker when my air conditioner turns on?

	Light flicker associated with the starting of appliances usually does not pose any safety problems and does not damage appliances. Proper wire connections and grounding are necessary to reduce flicker. Contractors and homeowners should check with their local utility regarding the appropriate wire size and transformer servicing the home. In cases where light dimming is related to the starting of a central air conditioner, and the previously discussed steps have not resolved the situation, manufacturers offer start assist kits that can be purchased which may help reduce flicker. Please contact your local independent Trane dealer for assistance. Independent Trane dealers are listed in your local Yellow Pages or type in your ZIP code at our Web site's Dealer Locator for a partial list of independent Trane dealers in your area.

	How much coverage do I have under the Manufacturer's Limited Warranty?

	Trane's XR split system outdoor product lines carry an original limited warranty that covers the compressor and outdoor coil for ten (10) years (parts only) and internal functional parts for five (5) years (parts only). Your installing independent Trane dealer is responsible for any warranty part replacement labor for the first year. Trane's XLi split system outdoor product lines carry an original limited warranty that covers the compressor and outdoor coil for ten (10) years (parts only) and internal functional parts for ten (10) years (parts only). Your installing independent Trane dealer is responsible for any warranty part replacement labor for the first two years. Trane 80 percent gas furnaces have an original limited warranty that covers the heat exchangers for twenty (20) years (parts only) and internal functional parts for five (5) years (parts only). Your installing independent Trane dealer is responsible for any warranty part replacement labor for the first year. Trane 90+ percent gas furnaces have an original limited warranty that covers the heat exchangers (parts only) for the lifetime of the original owner or twenty (20) years for a successive owner and internal functional parts for five (5) years (parts only). Your installing independent Trane dealer is responsible for any warranty part replacement labor for the first year.

	What is the difference between a Manufacturer's Limited Warranty and an Extended parts and labor Warranty?

	A limited warranty covers specific parts (i.e. compressor, coil, electronics, etc.); therefore, the warranty language limits it. Extended warranties are generally purchased in addition to the limited warranty. Extended warranties cover all parts and may also include the labor for the service call. An extended warranty protects you from unexpected and unbudgeted service calls for the duration of the warranty.

	How long will it take to receive my Extended Warranty from Trane?

	If you purchased a factory extended warranty, your installing independent Trane dealer submits your application to its regional Trane wholesale distributor. The distributor, in turn, submits it to the Trane Extended Warranty Department. You should receive your warranty within 45 days of installation. If you do not receive a written extended warranty of for further assistance, please contact your installing dealer or call the Trane Extended Warranty department at (800) 554-6413



	Important For Your Comfort - And Peace Of Mind

	During its lifetime, it's only logical to assume your home comfort system might need an occasional "tune up" along the way. Would you drive your car 100,000 miles without oil changes or some kind of maintenance? The same holds true for your home comfort system. Regular preventative maintenance is the best way to ensure trouble-free operation and peak performance. It also keeps your system running at its optimal efficiency levels, which keeps energy usage - and your energy bills - in check. But just as important, preventative system maintenance gives you peace of mind. Pre-season maintenance can help you avoid a system failure on the hottest or coldest day of the year. It can also help you avoid a frantic search for an air conditioning or heating dealer that can repair or replace your broken system. Many servicing dealers provide priority service for their customers who have an annual maintenance or service agreement. Your existing relationship with a servicing dealer is worth its weight in gold when it's a 95-degree July day and your air conditioning system has stopped working.

	Replacing Your System

	If you're thinking about replacing an aging home comfort system, your local independent Trane dealer can offer guidance on proper preventative maintenance as well as annual maintenance and service agreements. At this time, you'll also want to inquire about Trane's Optional Extended Warranties. If your dealer does not offer Trane Optional Extended Warranties, contact one of our independent or company-owned distribution centers for information.

	Air Conditioning and Heating System Maintenance - When To Do It

	If your air conditioning system both heats and cools your home, you should have maintenance performed in the spring and fall. If you have a air conditioning-only or heating-only system, maintenance should be performed at least once a year prior to the heating or air conditioning season. For a list of what you should expect during a preventative maintenance service check-up, check out our suggested pre-season preventative maintenance checklist.

	An Inside Look At System Maintenance

	Expect your servicing dealer to do a complete system operation check in both cooling and heating modes. If you have a heat pump, your dealer should check the defrost operation, as well. All other major components and safety devices should be checked. The air conditioner's coils, both indoors and out, should be cleaned, as well as the indoor blower housing and blower wheel. Most modern residential air conditioning and heating fan motors have permanently-lubricated bearings so no additional lubrication is needed. All Trane residential air conditioning systems produced after 1985 have a direct-drive blower, which means there are no fan belts to inspect. However, if you have an older system with a fan belt, be sure to have the fan belts checked and replaced if needed. Your duct system should also be checked. Inefficient operation can be caused by return air leaks located in non-air conditioned spaces like attics or crawl areas. Hot or cold air is drawn in through the leak, which is then heated or cooled by your system. This decreases your system's ability to heat or cool your home and also increases your energy bill.