Top 20 HVAC & Plumbing FAQs
1. Is HVAC maintenance really necessary every year?
Yes. HVAC maintenance is one of the most important steps homeowners can take to keep their heating and cooling system operating safely and efficiently.
Most HVAC systems should receive two professional maintenance visits per year — one focused on heating and one focused on cooling.
At STAR Heating Cooling Plumbing, we also inspect the indoor HVAC unit every six months, because the indoor components operate during both heating and cooling seasons. Regular inspections help:
- Maintain proper airflow
- Catch electrical issues early
- Improve energy efficiency
- Extend equipment lifespan
- Reduce the likelihood of breakdowns
Skipping maintenance can lead to higher energy bills, reduced comfort, and unexpected system failures.
Learn more about HVAC maintenance services:
https://www.starheatcool.com/ac-maintenance-fishers-in/
2. How often should HVAC filters be changed?
Most HVAC filters should be replaced every 1–3 months, depending on the filter thickness and conditions in the home.
A helpful guideline is the “inch rule.”
- 1-inch filter → about every 1 month
- 2-inch filter → about every 2 months
- 4-inch filter → about every 4 months
Homes with pets, candles, cooking oils, aerosols, construction dust, or open windows may require more frequent filter changes.
Replacing filters regularly helps maintain airflow, improves system efficiency, protects HVAC components, and improves indoor air quality.
3. Why is my furnace blowing cold air?
A furnace blowing cold air can happen for several reasons, including:
- Dirty or clogged air filters
- Thermostat settings set to fan instead of heat
- Ignition problems
- Gas supply interruptions
- Blower motor issues
Sometimes the system may simply be in the startup cycle, where the blower runs briefly before the burners ignite.
If the furnace continues blowing cold air, it should be inspected by a professional HVAC technician.
Learn more about furnace repair:
https://www.starheatcool.com/furnace-repair-fishers-in/
4. Why is my AC running but not cooling my house?
If your air conditioner is running but your home is not getting cooler, several issues may be responsible:
- Low refrigerant levels
- Frozen evaporator coils
- Dirty condenser coils
- Airflow restrictions from clogged filters
- Thermostat problems
- Duct airflow issues
Because many different problems can cause this symptom, a professional diagnostic is usually needed to determine the exact cause.
Learn more about AC repair services:
https://www.starheatcool.com/ac-repair-fishers-in/
5. How long do HVAC or Plumbing systems last?
The lifespan of HVAC or plumbing equipment varies depending on installation quality, usage, and maintenance.
Typical lifespans include:
- Furnaces: 15–20 years
- Air conditioners: 12–15 years
- Heat pumps: 10–15 years
- Tank water heaters: 8–12 years
- Tankless water heaters: 15–20 years
With proper maintenance and timely repairs, many systems can last longer than the average range.
6. Why does my house feel humid even when the AC is running?
Your air conditioner removes humidity while cooling your home, but several issues can reduce its ability to control moisture.
Common causes include:
- Oversized HVAC systems
- Dirty evaporator coils
- Short cycling
- Poor airflow
- High outdoor humidity levels
If your home consistently feels humid even when the AC is running, an HVAC technician should inspect the system and airflow.
7. Why is my air conditioner freezing up?
Air conditioners may freeze when airflow across the evaporator coil becomes restricted or when refrigerant levels are low.
Common causes include:
- Dirty air filters
- Blocked vents or return air grills
- Low refrigerant
- Dirty evaporator coils
- Blower motor problems
If ice forms on the system, the unit should be turned off and inspected to prevent further damage.
8. Why does my furnace keep turning on and off?
When a furnace turns on and off frequently, the condition is called short cycling.
Short cycling may occur due to:
- Dirty air filters
- Thermostat placement problems
- Overheating components
- Restricted airflow
- Improper system sizing
Short cycling increases wear on the system and should be addressed quickly.
9. Why is my HVAC system blowing weak airflow?
Weak airflow can make rooms uncomfortable and reduce system efficiency.
Common causes include:
- Dirty air filters
- Duct leaks
- Blower motor issues
- Blocked vents
- Dirty coils
A professional inspection can identify airflow problems and restore system performance.
10. Why is one room in my house hotter or colder than the others?
Uneven temperatures in a home are often caused by airflow or insulation issues.
Possible causes include:
- Duct airflow imbalances
- Blocked supply vents
- Poor attic insulation
- Duct leaks
- HVAC system sizing issues
An HVAC technician can evaluate airflow and recommend solutions.
11. How much does a furnace replacement cost in Indiana?
Furnace replacement costs vary depending on equipment type, system size, and installation requirements.
Many homeowners in Central Indiana invest between $4,500 and $9,500 for furnace replacement.
The exact cost depends on:
- Furnace efficiency rating
- Home size and duct design
- Installation complexity
- Additional system upgrades
12. How much does a new air conditioner cost?
Air conditioner replacement costs depend on the system size, efficiency level, and installation complexity.
Most homeowners in Central Indiana invest between $5,000 and $12,000 for AC replacement.
Higher-efficiency systems and complex installations can increase the total cost.
13. Do you offer financing for HVAC or plumbing services?
Yes. STAR Heating Cooling Plumbing offers financing options for qualifying projects over $1,000.
Financing may be available for:
- HVAC installations
- System replacements
- Major repairs
- Water heater installations
- Larger plumbing projects
In some cases, HVAC and plumbing work may be combined into a single financed project.
Learn more about financing options:
https://www.starheatcool.com/financing/
14. Why is my water heater not producing hot water?
If your water heater is not producing hot water, several issues may be responsible.
Common causes include:
- Failed heating elements
- Gas supply issues
- Thermostat problems
- Sediment buildup inside the tank
- Electrical problems
A plumbing technician can diagnose the exact cause and recommend repair or replacement.
Learn more about water heater services:
https://www.starheatcool.com/water-heater-repair-fishers-in/
15. How long do water heaters last?
Water heater lifespan depends on the type of system and maintenance.
Typical lifespans include:
- Tank water heaters: 8–12 years
- Tankless water heaters: 15–20 years
Regular maintenance can help extend the life of the unit.
16. Why do my drains keep clogging?
Frequent drain clogs may indicate buildup or deeper plumbing issues.
Common causes include:
- Grease buildup
- Hair accumulation
- Soap residue
- Pipe damage
- Tree root intrusion
Recurring clogs should be inspected by a plumber.
Learn more about plumbing services:
https://www.starheatcool.com/fishers-plumbers/
17. Why is my water pressure suddenly low?
Low water pressure can occur for several reasons.
Possible causes include:
- Plumbing leaks
- Mineral buildup in pipes
- Pressure regulator issues
- Municipal water supply problems
A plumber can determine the source of the pressure drop.
18. What should I do if my HVAC system stops working?
If your HVAC system stops working suddenly, start with a few basic checks:
- Check thermostat settings
- Inspect the air filter
- Check the circuit breaker
- Make sure vents are open and unobstructed
If the system still does not operate, professional service may be required.
Emergency HVAC services may be available depending on availability.
19. Do you offer second opinions on HVAC repairs?
Yes. STAR Heating Cooling Plumbing provides second opinions on HVAC repairs and replacement recommendations.
If you provide proof that you paid another company for a diagnostic, we will waive our diagnostic fee so you can compare our recommendation.
This allows homeowners to make confident decisions before committing to major repairs or replacements.
20. How quickly can HVAC or plumbing service be scheduled?
STAR Heating Cooling Plumbing offers three convenient scheduling windows for advanced appointments, and in many cases we can provide same-day service depending on technician availability.
Because our technicians travel throughout Central Indiana, scheduling is optimized based on geographic routing to serve customers efficiently.