CMAGS HVAC Inc.

Frequently Asked Questions

Basics

How do I register my equipment?

You don't have to! We will do it for you once the system is installed and paid for!

How do I know if my new system is rebate eligible?

We will note it on your estimate.

What information do I need to submit for the rebate, if eligible?

We submit it for you! We take all the necessary information and send you the confirmation! As of now, processing times for National Grid rebates are 6-8 weeks.

How much will it cost to install my furnace/AC/mini split?

Due to the many different makes, models and customer needs, price is an issue that can only be solved by doing a thorough evaluation of your home and existing equipment. There is no charge for an in-house replacement proposal.

How often should I replace my filters?

We recommend to replace it every two months. If you have a pet in your home, then we recommend changing it every month.

Furnace/Boiler

How long will my new furnace last?

The life expectancy of a furnace, per the manufacturer, is 10-15 years. Anything beyond that could lead to possible breakdown.

How often should I have maintenance done on my furnace?

We recommend having maintenance done on your furnace once a year. We start performing our annual heat inspections in the fall, once the weather is below 60°F.

Why can't I use my existing furnace and add on the AC?

Cmags always recommends furnace replacement when an existing furnace is over 10 years old with new AC installation due to efficiency capacity. A furnace and AC share a blower and should be replaced at the same time. If you match a new AC system with an old, inefficient furnace, it can potentially decrease the lifespan of the new AC. In order to get the correct amount of airflow and most of the new AC system, we always recommend replacing your furnace. Additional note: New AC systems matched to older furnace can have issues with warranty claims.

My pilot has turned off and now the heat won't work. Is there anything I should check before calling CMAGS?

You can check your thermostat and make sure that, if it runs on batteries, it is working. Additionally, make sure your emergency switch did not get flipped (which is the red switch usually found in a stairwell or closet). Finally, check that the unit itself is not turned off (emergency shut off).

I wanted a larger AC unit, why did you recommend a smaller one?
Oversizing a system can cause it to short cycle (on and off) and end up causing wear and tear. It will also cause lack of humidity being removed from the area. Oversized air conditioners don't run for a long time because they satisfy the cooling load quickly and then shut off. When we quote an AC system, we quote the appropriate size based on what is needed for your home to ensure that is cools the home and dehumidifies as well. It will not properly cool and dehumidify if it is oversized.

How often should I have maintenance done on my air conditioner?

We recommend having maintenance done on your air conditioner once a year. We start performing our annual AC inspections in the early spring, once the weather is over 65°F.

Why is R22 more expensive and hard to find?
R22 has been in the process of phasing out, per the United States Environmental Protection Agency - for more detail, please click here.

My AC is not cooling/my AC is not cooling to the desired temperature. Is there anything I can do before calling CMAGS?

Make sure all your brakers are on. Additionally, check that your windows are all closed (while this may seem like an obvious fix, we have seen it happen).

Mini Splits & Heat Pumps

How often should I have maintenance done on my mini split system?

We recommend having maintenance done on your mini split system once a year; because your mini split system performs both as a heat source and cooling source, you can schedule your maintenance any time within the year.