When you call Applegate for all your home comfort needs you’ll receive the same customer friendly service that Mid Michigan and the surrounding areas have relied on since 1952. At Applegate we don’t just want your business today we will do everything we can to maintain your trust and maximize your energy dollar.
Air Conditioning
| What does "SEER" rating mean? |  |
SEER stands for "Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio" which is used to describe the efficiency level of a particular equipment system. The higher the SEER rating the more efficient the system will run, and the more efficient the system runs the less energy it will consume.
| What should I know about the new refrigerants? | |
The new refrigerants are chlorine free and are the environmentally friendly alternative to the old refrigerant.
| Should I replace my furnace at the same time I add air conditioning? | |
It is most cost effective to replace your furnace at the same time. A big cost of any "in home" project is the expense of getting a company to your door step. The more done at once the less cost for the project.
| Why is the upstairs of my two story home always hotter than the first floor? | |
Two main reasons, first your thermostat is normally on the first floor, it does not get a reading of the second floor. Secondly, the second floor is up in the more extreme wind, sun, and temperature. Ask about a "zone" system to take care of this issue.
Heating
| Will my new furnace work differently than my old one? | |
The industry is always striving to make the blower motor less noisy therefore the new furnace should be quieter. Also the efficiency level will increase which will save you money. Although these are reason to change a furnace be aware that a new furnace is not the cure all of your comfort needs!
| What is a two stage furnace? | |
Unlike typical single stage furnaces that run at full capacity with each call for heat, a two-stage furnace will start out by running in its first stage which uses only 2/3 of its capacity in the more mild winter days. As the temperature drops the furnace will meet the extra demand for heat by raising to the second stage.
| What is a variable speed furnace? | |
Variable speed refers to the blower motor which has multiple speeds. The blower motor will start on a particular speed and automatically raise and lower based on the runtime of the equipment. This will conserve energy and therefore save money.
| What is and how does a heat pump work for the heating mode? | |
A heat pump in the heat mode works like a reverse air conditioner. Instead of the hot air being expelled outside in the summer this air is now expelled into the house when there is a call for heat.
Insulation
| How much insulation does my attic need? | |
According to the U.S. Department of Energy a R-Value of 49 to 60 is recommended. This would equate to 15 to 18 inches of Applegate "Class One" Cellulose insulation.
| Does Applegate Cellulose insulation make homes safer? | |
All residential structures contain large amounts of wood. Cellulose insulation is the only wood based construction material that is normally treated for fire retardancy. This treatment makes cellulose insulation one of the safest materials used in home construction.
| Can you insulate sidewalls of new or existing homes? | |
Yes, installing Applegate cellulose insulation in new or existing homes is one of the best decisions you can make for yourself and your family. New home applications involve the custom fit Applegate wall spray system. Existing home applications involve removing sections of siding, blowing the insulation into the wall cavities, and reinstalling the siding.
| Is Applegate Insulation a "Green" Product? | |
Yes, Applegate cellulose insulation is made from recycled wood fiber, primarily newspaper. When you choose Applegate insulation, you help protect the environment. Manufacturing Applegate cellulose insulation uses one-fifth the energy required to make fiberglass and generates one-fifth the carbon dioxide. Applegate insulation is made from 80% post-consumer recycled newsprint gathered by fundraisers by churches and schools.
Service/Indoor Air Quality
| Why is it important to have regular maintenance on my heating/cooling equipment and how frequently is it recommended? | |
The cost of a dirty furnace or air conditioner can be significant. This is why every manufacturer recommends once a year check and clean in order to maximize the units efficiency this will also help minimize energy bills and increase the life of the system.
| How do I know what indoor air quality products are right for me? | |
The most effective way to know what indoor air quality products are right for you is to sign up for a free Air Advice Test. This will eliminate the guess work and give us a clear plan as to what will be needed to improve your indoor air quality.
| How often should I change my air filter and are all air filters created equal? | |
At the very least the furnace filter should be changed one time before air conditioning season and twice during the winter. Air cleaners should be changed yearly. Changing these filters will guarantee that they are working and ensure you they are not making the indoor air dirty.
| How do I know if I need a humidifier? | |
The most common way to know you need a humidifier is to experience frequent static in your home. Another important reason to have a humidifier is to decrease the moisture in the air to protect wood products such as furniture, desks and tables.
