Frequently Asked Questions
At Comfort Air, Inc. Mechanical and Plumbing Contractors, our Stockton plumbers and HVAC contractors offer installation, repair, and maintenance services. We understand customers have questions, so here are answers to common inquiries.

HVAC FAQs
Find answers to common HVAC questions, including maintenance tips, system lifespan, energy efficiency, troubleshooting issues, and when to repair or replace your heating and cooling system for optimal performance.
How Often Should I Change My Air Filter?
This is something you can easily do yourself. In general, you should check the filter every month, and replace it if it’s dirty or clogged. If your home isn’t as dusty, consider changing the filter every two or three months.
When Should I Schedule HVAC Service?
We recommend having your heating and cooling system serviced twice a year—once in the fall and once in the spring. Scheduling a tune-up lets us prepare your system for the season and avoid breakdowns. It also helps prevent expensive repairs and increase system lifespan.
How Do I Know Whether to Repair or Replace My System?
An HVAC technician can tell you if it’s worth repairing an air conditioner or furnace. Repairs are often worthwhile unless your system is near 15 years old and the cost of fixing it would be 50% of its value or the cost of a new system. If you’re not getting effective heating or cooling, the system stops working, or is significantly damaged, consider replacement.
What Are the Benefits of Carrier HVAC Systems?
Carrier cooling systems offer a range of benefits, including high energy efficiency, durability, and quiet operation. They also provide consistent comfort, with options like variable speed technology and two-stage models offering precise temperature control. Furthermore, Carrier systems can be paired with furnaces for dual-fuel systems, improving efficiency in colder climates.
How Much Will My New AC Cost?
A new HVAC system is an investment. The exact cost varies based on numerous factors, including the type of AC, the unit’s size, and whether you need updates to ductwork or your electrical system.
What System Size Do I Need?
It’s very important to choose the right sized system. Otherwise, it won’t run efficiently and can require more repairs. Size depends on your home’s square footage, the type/condition of ductwork, number and size of windows, and the type of insulation installed. Local climate is also a factor.
How Long Will My AC/Furnace Last?
Most home HVAC systems last from 10 to 15 years. With regular maintenance and proper use, some systems last longer. If you start seeing major problems after 10 years, a replacement can save you in the long run, especially considering the higher efficiency of modern systems.
Why Is Maintenance So Important?
There’s an old saying “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Maintenance can prevent A/C and furnace breakdowns, improve efficiency, and lower utility bills. It can also avoid the pitfalls of neglecting a furnace, such as inconsistent heat, expensive repairs, and the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. In short, maintenance improves safety and saves money.
Plumbing FAQs
Explore answers to common plumbing questions about leak detection, pipe maintenance, water heater issues, drain cleaning, emergency services, and how to prevent costly plumbing problems in your home or business.
Should I Repipe My Home?
If you have galvanized or copper pipes installed prior to 1946, it is a good idea to replace them. Deteriorating pipes can leak and affect water quality. We can prevent flooding, mold, and property damage by using high quality materials that are strong and corrosion resistant.
How Do I Know I Have Leaking Pipes?
Signs of leaky pipes include low water pressure, restricted flow, discolored walls and ceilings, and water damage. You might see or smell mold and mildew. Over time, leaks can increase water bills, cause structural problems, and trigger respiratory issues due to mold and high humidity.
Why Do I Need a Plumber to Unclog Drains?
People often use plungers, drain snakes, or worse, liquid drain cleaners, to try to unclog drains. Even if these methods work initially, they’re often not a long-term solution. Our Stockton plumbers use the latest techniques to clear out drains, including mechanical augers and water jetting.
How Do I Stop Pipes from Clogging?
Don’t pour grease or oil down the drain, and rinse away any grease from dishes with hot water. Run your garbage disposal with cold water and, if you don’t have a disposal, use a drain strainer. When flushing the toilet, only flush waste and toilet tissue. If you have a septic tank, have it pumped out every two or three years.
How Do I Get My Water Heater To Last Longer?
If you’re lucky, your water heater can last up to 12 years or so. Scheduling regular maintenance can get more life out of your system. From minor repairs to flushing the tank of sediment and minerals every year, our technicians provide high-quality service.
Is Excavation Necessary to Repair a Sewer Pipe?
Traditional methods of sewer repair involve tearing up yards. We use trenchless sewer repair methods in Stockton that save time and money while minimizing disruption. Specialized linings are used that harden in place and can last for decades.
How Do I Protect My Plumbing from Tree Roots?
Tree root intrusion is a common cause of sewer line damage. It can be addressed by removing the trees affecting pipes or installing a root barrier around new trees. Other methods include camera inspection to detect invasive roots and hydro jetting that can cut through roots and other clogs.
Is My Plumbing Issue Considered an Emergency?
You can call us 24/7 when multiple drains clog up, a pipe is leaking, or bursts. A flood is definitely an emergency, whether it occurs inside or outside your home, as it can quickly lead to mold, bacteria growth, and structural damage.
Service FAQs
Check out our Service FAQs to understand scheduling, service areas, response times, warranties, pricing, and what to expect before, during, and after a service visit for a smooth customer experience.
Do You Offer a Maintenance Plan?
Yes, our Comfort Air, Inc. Plan is available for one annual fee. It includes A/C and furnace tune-ups twice a year with complete inspections.
Do You Offer Financing?
Our financing plans give you flexibility in paying for a new air conditioner or a plumbing overhaul. Pay over time with low interest rates, no down payments, and promotional specials. You can replace or upgrade equipment sooner, and avoid paying high repair costs.
STILL HAVE A QUESTIONS?
Feel free to reach out. Our knowledgeable team is here to assist you. Contact us anytime; we're just a call or message away.