Welcome to FlowState Air Heating & Cooling. We’ve put together answers to some of the questions homeowners ask most often about heating, cooling, HVAC maintenance, repairs, replacements, and indoor comfort.
If you don’t see your question answered below, contact FlowState Air Heating & Cooling and we’ll be happy to help.
General HVAC Questions
What HVAC services does FlowState Air Heating & Cooling provide?
FlowState Air Heating & Cooling provides heating and cooling services for residential customers. Depending on your needs, our services may include HVAC repair, maintenance, installation, system replacement, troubleshooting, and other heating and cooling solutions.
Contact us to learn which services are available for your home.
How do I know if my HVAC system needs to be repaired?
Common signs that your HVAC system may need professional attention include:
The system isn’t heating or cooling properly.
Airflow from the vents is weak.
The system turns on and off frequently.
Your energy bills have increased unexpectedly.
You hear unusual noises.
You notice unusual odors.
Certain rooms are consistently too hot or too cold.
The system is leaking water.
The thermostat isn’t maintaining the desired temperature.
Your system won’t turn on.
If something doesn’t seem right, having the system inspected early may help identify a problem before it becomes a larger repair.
How often should my HVAC system be serviced?
Regular professional maintenance can help keep your system operating efficiently and identify potential problems before they become major issues.
ENERGY STAR recommends professional pre-season checkups, generally with cooling equipment checked in the spring and heating equipment checked in the fall.
How often should I change my HVAC filter?
Check your air filter regularly, especially during periods of heavy heating or cooling use.
ENERGY STAR recommends checking filters monthly and replacing or cleaning them as needed, with many systems requiring replacement at least every three months. The appropriate schedule can vary depending on the filter, equipment, home, pets, occupants, and indoor air quality conditions.
Why is my HVAC system running constantly?
A system that runs for long periods may be dealing with a variety of issues, including:
Extremely hot or cold outdoor temperatures;
A dirty air filter;
Restricted airflow;
Ductwork problems;
Low refrigerant;
Thermostat issues;
An improperly sized system;
Insufficient insulation or air sealing; or
A mechanical problem.
Long run times aren’t always a sign of a malfunction, particularly during extreme weather. If your system runs continuously without maintaining a comfortable temperature, however, it’s worth having it evaluated.
Air Conditioning Questions
Why isn’t my air conditioner cooling my house?
There are several possible causes, including:
A dirty air filter;
Restricted airflow;
Thermostat problems;
Dirty coils;
Refrigerant problems;
Electrical issues;
Ductwork problems;
A failing compressor; or
Other mechanical issues.
Because several different problems can produce similar symptoms, a professional diagnosis is usually the best way to determine the cause.
Why is my AC blowing warm air?
If your air conditioner is running but blowing warm air, check that your thermostat is set correctly and that the system is actually calling for cooling.
If the problem continues, possible causes include airflow restrictions, refrigerant issues, electrical problems, compressor problems, or other component failures.
A professional inspection can determine what’s causing the problem.
Why is my air conditioner freezing up?
Ice on an air conditioner can be caused by restricted airflow, refrigerant problems, dirty components, or other issues.
If your AC is frozen, continuing to operate it can potentially make the problem worse. Turn the system off and contact an HVAC professional for guidance.
Why is my AC leaking water?
Water around an indoor HVAC unit can have several causes, including a clogged condensate drain, a drain-pan problem, frozen equipment, or another issue with the system.
A condensate drain is an important part of an air conditioning system, and ENERGY STAR recommends having it inspected as part of routine maintenance.
Why is my air conditioner making strange noises?
Different sounds can indicate different problems.
Grinding, squealing, rattling, buzzing, banging, or unusual clicking may indicate a loose component, electrical problem, motor issue, debris, or another mechanical problem.
If your system suddenly develops an unusual or severe noise, it’s best to have it inspected rather than continuing to operate it if doing so could cause damage.
Heating Questions
Why isn’t my furnace heating my home?
Potential causes include:
A dirty filter;
Thermostat problems;
Ignition or electrical problems;
Restricted airflow;
Burner problems;
A malfunctioning safety control;
Ductwork problems; or
Other mechanical failures.
A professional diagnosis can determine the actual cause.
Why does my furnace keep turning on and off?
Frequent cycling can have several causes, including restricted airflow, thermostat problems, an improperly sized system, overheating, or a mechanical issue.
If your furnace repeatedly starts and stops without maintaining a comfortable temperature, have it inspected.
Why does my furnace smell when I turn it on?
A brief dusty smell can sometimes occur when heating equipment is first used after sitting idle.
However, unusual, strong, burning, electrical, or gas-related odors should not be ignored.
If you smell gas or suspect a dangerous condition, leave the area when appropriate and contact the appropriate emergency or utility service. Do not rely on website information to diagnose an immediate safety hazard.
What should I do if my carbon monoxide alarm goes off?
Treat a carbon monoxide alarm as a potential emergency.
Leave the affected area and contact the appropriate emergency services or utility provider according to your local emergency procedures. Do not attempt to diagnose or repair a suspected carbon monoxide problem yourself.
Once the immediate safety issue has been addressed, a qualified HVAC professional may be able to inspect applicable heating equipment.
HVAC Maintenance
Is HVAC maintenance really necessary?
Regular maintenance can help identify problems, maintain equipment performance, and potentially reduce unexpected breakdowns.
Routine maintenance may include inspecting electrical connections, controls, airflow, condensate drains, coils, and other system components What can I do myself to maintain my HVAC system?
Homeowners can perform some basic maintenance, including:
Checking the air filter regularly;
Replacing or cleaning the filter as appropriate;
Keeping the outdoor unit clear of leaves, grass, and debris;
Keeping supply and return vents unobstructed;
Checking thermostat settings; and
Scheduling professional maintenance.
More technical work should be handled by a qualified HVAC professional.
Should I cover my outdoor AC unit during winter?
In many cases, a central outdoor AC condenser does not need to be completely covered.
A full cover can potentially trap moisture and create conditions that aren’t ideal for the equipment. Follow your equipment manufacturer’s recommendations and ask your HVAC professional if you’re unsure what is appropriate for your particular system.
How can I improve my HVAC system’s efficiency?
Start with the basics:
Keep filters clean;
Schedule regular professional maintenance;
Keep outdoor equipment clear;
Make sure vents aren’t blocked;
Address ductwork problems;
Maintain appropriate thermostat settings; and
Make sure your HVAC equipment is properly sized and installed.
ENERGY STAR notes that duct sealing, proper airflow, regular maintenance, and correctly sized equipment can all contribute to improved comfort and efficienc
HVAC Replacement Questions
How do I know when it’s time to replace my HVAC system?
Replacement may be worth considering when a system is older, requires frequent repairs, has become unreliable, isn’t maintaining comfort, or operating costs have increased.
The age of the equipment is only one factor. The system’s condition, efficiency, repair history, comfort performance, and cost of continued operation should also be considered.
ENERGY STAR identifies older equipment, frequent repairs, rising energy bills, uneven temperatures, humidity problems, and other performance issues as signs that homeowners may want to evaluate replacement options.
Should I repair or replace my HVAC system?
There isn’t one answer that works for every home.
A repair may make sense when the equipment is otherwise in good condition and the problem is relatively minor. Replacement may make more sense when the equipment is older, repairs are becoming frequent or expensive, or the system no longer provides reliable comfort.
FlowState can evaluate your system and explain your available options.
How long does an HVAC system last?
HVAC equipment doesn’t have a guaranteed lifespan. Actual service life depends on equipment type, installation quality, maintenance, operating conditions, usage, and other factors.
If your system is aging and experiencing repeated problems, a professional evaluation can help you determine whether continued repairs or replacement makes more sense.
How do I choose the right size HVAC system?
Bigger isn’t necessarily better.
An HVAC system that is improperly sized may cycle too frequently or struggle to maintain comfort. Proper sizing should take the home’s characteristics into account rather than relying solely on a simple rule of thumb.
ENERGY STAR recommends that contractors use appropriate load calculations, including Manual J, when determining the heating and cooling requirements of a home.
Will a new HVAC system lower my energy bills?
A newer, properly sized and installed system may improve efficiency compared with older equipment, but actual savings vary.
Your home’s insulation, ductwork, thermostat settings, weather, equipment selection, installation quality, maintenance, and usage habits can all affect energy consumption.
For that reason, FlowState cannot guarantee a specific reduction in your utility bills unless expressly provided in a written agreement.
Heat Pump Questions
What is a heat pump?
A heat pump is an HVAC system that can provide both heating and cooling.
In cooling mode, it removes heat from your home. In heating mode, it moves heat into your home from the outdoor environment.
Modern heat pumps can provide year-round heating and cooling from one system.
Are heat pumps good for heating and cooling?
Heat pumps can provide both heating and cooling and may be an efficient option for many homes.
Whether a heat pump is appropriate for your home depends on factors such as climate, existing equipment, ductwork, electrical service, home design, and your comfort and efficiency goals.
A qualified HVAC professional can evaluate whether a heat pump is a good fit.
Can a heat pump replace my air conditioner and furnace?
In some homes, a heat pump can provide both heating and cooling.
Other homes may benefit from a dual-fuel or supplemental heating arrangement. The appropriate setup depends on the home, existing system, climate, equipment, and homeowner preferences.
How long does a heat pump last?
Heat pump lifespan varies based on equipment quality, installation, maintenance, operating conditions, and usage.
Regular maintenance and proper installation can help support reliable operation and performance.
Indoor Air Quality
Can my HVAC system affect indoor air quality?
Your HVAC system plays an important role in moving and filtering air throughout your home.
Indoor air quality can also be affected by ventilation, filtration, humidity, ductwork, household activities, outdoor air, and other factors.
If you’re experiencing excessive dust, odors, humidity problems, or other indoor comfort concerns, FlowState can help determine whether your HVAC system may be contributing to the issue.
What type of air filter should I use?
The appropriate filter depends on your HVAC equipment and the needs of your home.
A filter that is too restrictive for a particular system can reduce airflow, while an inadequate filter may not provide the desired level of filtration.
Check your equipment manufacturer’s recommendations or ask an HVAC professional before changing to a significantly different filter type.
Why is my house dusty even though I have a new filter?
Dust can come from many sources besides the HVAC system.
Possible contributors include duct leakage, air leaks, inadequate filtration, construction materials, carpets, pets, outdoor air, and normal household activity.
An HVAC professional can help determine whether your ductwork, filtration, or system airflow may be contributing to the problem.
Thermostat Questions
Why isn’t my thermostat reaching the temperature I set?
Possible causes include:
A thermostat problem;
A dirty filter;
Restricted airflow;
HVAC equipment problems;
Ductwork issues;
An improperly sized system;
Insufficient insulation or air sealing; or
Extreme outdoor temperatures.
If the system runs continuously without reaching the desired temperature, professional troubleshooting may be needed.
Should I upgrade to a smart thermostat?
A smart thermostat can provide additional scheduling, remote-control, and monitoring features.
Whether it will benefit your home depends on your existing equipment, thermostat wiring, usage habits, and comfort goals.
Not every HVAC system is compatible with every thermostat, so compatibility should be confirmed before installation.
Service and Scheduling
How do I schedule HVAC service with FlowState?
You can contact FlowState through the information provided on our website or submit a service request through our online scheduling or contact form, if available.
Submitting an online request does not necessarily mean an appointment has been confirmed. Appointment confirmation may require communication from FlowState.
What should I have ready when requesting HVAC service?
If possible, be prepared to provide:
Your name and contact information;
Property address;
A description of the problem;
Whether the issue affects heating, cooling, or both;
Any unusual noises, odors, or leaks;
The thermostat setting and current indoor temperature; and
Equipment information or model numbers, if readily available.
Photos can also be helpful when appropriate.
Do I need to be home for HVAC service?
Whether someone needs to be present depends on the type of service, access requirements, and arrangements made with FlowState.
When scheduling your appointment, ask what access will be required.
What happens during an HVAC service visit?
The process depends on the reason for the visit.
A technician may inspect the equipment, discuss the symptoms you’ve noticed, perform appropriate diagnostic tests, identify potential problems, and explain recommended solutions.
If additional work is recommended, FlowState can discuss the scope and applicable pricing before proceeding, subject to the terms of your service agreement.
Cost and Estimates
How much does HVAC repair cost?
HVAC repair costs vary significantly depending on the equipment, diagnosis, parts, labor, accessibility, and scope of work.
The best way to determine the cost is to have the system evaluated and receive an estimate for the recommended work.
Do you provide free estimates?
Whether an estimate is free may depend on the type of project or service requested.
Please contact FlowState to confirm the current estimate policy for your specific situation.
Do you offer financing?
Financing availability, terms, eligibility, and approval requirements may vary.
If FlowState currently offers financing, ask our team about available options and applicable terms.
Financing may be provided through a third-party financing company and may be subject to credit approval and separate terms.
Are rebates or tax credits available for new HVAC equipment?
Certain HVAC equipment may qualify for manufacturer, utility, local, state, or federal incentives, depending on the equipment and the customer’s circumstances.
Eligibility requirements and available programs can change.
FlowState can help identify potential options, but customers should verify eligibility and applicable requirements with the relevant program administrator or a qualified tax professional.
Emergency HVAC Questions
What should I do if my HVAC system stops working?
First, check simple items such as:
The thermostat settings;
The circuit breaker;
The air filter; and
Whether the system has power.
If the problem isn’t resolved, contact FlowState for professional assistance.
Do not attempt electrical, gas, refrigerant, or other hazardous repairs yourself.
What should I do if I smell gas?
If you smell gas or suspect a gas leak, treat the situation as a potential emergency.
Leave the area when appropriate and contact your local gas utility or emergency services according to your local emergency procedures.
Do not attempt to locate or repair a gas leak yourself.
Can FlowState help during extreme weather?
HVAC demand can increase significantly during periods of extreme heat or cold, which may affect appointment availability.
Contact FlowState as soon as you notice a problem rather than waiting until your system fails completely.
About FlowState
Why should I choose FlowState Air Heating & Cooling?
Our goal is to provide professional heating and cooling services with a focus on comfort, reliability, clear communication, and solutions appropriate for each customer’s home.
We encourage homeowners to ask questions, understand their options, and make informed decisions about their HVAC systems.
Does FlowState service my area?
Our service area may vary depending on the type of service and current availability.
Contact FlowState with your property address or ZIP code to confirm whether your home is within our current service area.
What brands of HVAC equipment does FlowState service?
HVAC systems can include equipment from many different manufacturers.
The brands FlowState services or installs may vary. Contact us with your equipment’s manufacturer and model information to confirm whether we can assist with your system.
Do you work on both heating and cooling systems?
Yes. FlowState Air Heating & Cooling is focused on residential heating and cooling needs, including troubleshooting, repair, maintenance, and system replacement where applicable.
Contact us to discuss your specific equipment.
Still Have Questions?
We’re happy to help.
If you have a question about your HVAC system, aren’t sure whether you need a repair or replacement, or simply want professional advice about your home’s comfort, contact FlowState Air Heating & Cooling.
FlowState Air Heating & Cooling
Phone: +1816-814-2251
Email: support@flowstateair.com
Service Area: KCMO Metro