FAQ
Questions we hear first.
Plain answers. If yours is not here, a person answers the phone.
Quick checks
Before the truck rolls.
My heat or AC stopped. What should I check before I call?
Three things: the thermostat is set to heat or cool and has fresh batteries, the breaker for the system has not tripped, and the filter is not clogged. If it still will not run, call us. We are open 24/7 for emergencies.
Why is my AC blowing warm air?
Start with the simple causes: a dirty filter, the thermostat set to fan only, or a tripped breaker for the outdoor unit. If those check out, or you see ice on the lines, turn the cooling off and call us.
Why is there ice on my AC lines?
Usually not enough airflow (a clogged filter or closed vents) or a refrigerant problem. Turn the cooling off, run the fan to thaw it, change the filter, and call us if it ices again.
Why is my furnace blowing cold air?
Make sure the thermostat is on heat and the fan is on auto, not on. If the air stays cold after that, call us: ignition and safety switch problems are a job for a technician.
What size system does my house need?
That takes a load calculation on your house, not a rule of thumb or the size of the old unit. We do one before we recommend any system.
Service calls
Before you call.
Do you offer emergency HVAC service?
Yes. Patriot Heat & Air is open 24/7 for emergency heating and cooling service across Southwest Missouri to Northwest Arkansas. Call us at (417) 320-6444.
What does a service call cost?
Our residential diagnostic visit is $89: a technician comes out, pulls out his tools and goes through your entire system, with a no-pressure quote for any repair. If you replace your system with us, the $89 residential diagnostic is credited back to you. Replacement estimates are free.
How often should I service my HVAC system?
Twice a year: in spring for your air conditioner and in fall for your heating. Regular tune-ups prevent breakdowns, improve efficiency and extend the life of the system.
What areas do you serve?
Southwest Missouri to Northwest Arkansas, from our offices in Hollister and Springfield: Branson, Hollister, Springfield, Branson West, Kimberling City, Forsyth, Ridgedale, Reeds Spring, Blue Eye, Kirbyville, Walnut Shade, Lampe, Omaha, Nixa, Ozark, Battlefield, Harrison and more. Not sure we come to you? Call us and we will tell you straight.
Do you offer financing?
Yes, for repairs as well as new systems. We work with Synchrony and Wells Fargo to offer monthly payment options for qualified homeowners. Subject to credit approval. Ask for details. We also offer commercial leasing for businesses.
Who owns Patriot Heat & Air?
Miranda Rought founded Patriot Heat & Air after years of working in the HVAC industry. It is locally owned in Hollister, Missouri, with a year-round crew of about twenty.
Heat pumps in winter
Cold-weather questions.
Why does my heat pump run constantly when it's extremely cold outside?
Heat pumps move heat from the outdoor air into your home, even in cold weather. As it gets colder, your home loses heat faster and the heat pump may need to run much longer. Long run times can be normal, but if your home can't hold a reasonable temperature, your system may need attention.
Why does my outdoor heat pump look like it's smoking?
It may actually be steam! In cold, damp weather, frost can build up on the outdoor unit. The heat pump runs a defrost cycle from time to time to melt it, sometimes making clouds of white vapor. Dark smoke, sparks or a burning smell should never be ignored.
Why does my thermostat say AUX HEAT?
AUX HEAT means your system is using backup heat to help your heat pump keep you comfortable. It's common in very cold weather, and it can also come on after a big thermostat setback or during defrost. Running a lot of auxiliary electric heat can raise energy costs.
What temperature should I set my heat pump thermostat to in winter?
For many households, 68 to 72 degrees is a comfortable place to start, but the best setting depends on you, your home and your equipment. Some heat pumps run more economically at a fairly steady setting than with big temperature changes.
Should I turn my heat pump down at night to save money?
It depends on your system. A big setback can make some heat pumps turn on auxiliary electric heat when they warm the house back up in the morning, which can cancel out the savings. Newer variable-speed systems and compatible smart thermostats may handle setbacks better.
How can I improve my heat pump's performance in winter?
Keep up with professional maintenance, check your air filters, keep the outdoor unit clear, seal drafts, and pay attention to changes in how the system runs. These simple habits help comfort and prevent wasted energy.
Why does my heat pump keep tripping the breaker?
Repeated breaker trips can mean faulty wiring, a failing motor or compressor, a problem with the electric backup heat, or another electrical issue. Don't keep resetting a breaker that trips. Leave it off and have the system inspected.
How much space should I leave around my outdoor heat pump?
Your outdoor unit needs room to breathe! Many manufacturers recommend at least 1 to 2 feet of clearance around the sides, with more above and around service access. Always follow your equipment's installation requirements, and keep snow, leaves and plants from blocking airflow.
What is a TXV, and what does it do?
A thermostatic expansion valve, or TXV, controls how much refrigerant goes into your system's indoor coil. Think of it as a traffic controller! It adjusts the flow to match operating conditions, which helps the system cool efficiently and protects the compressor.
Filters
Filter questions.
Do I really need to change my air filter every 30 days?
Not necessarily! Every home is different. A household with pets, children or lots of dust may need a new filter every month, while other homes can go 60 to 90 days. We recommend checking your filter every 30 days and following the filter maker's replacement guidelines.
How long do 4-inch and 5-inch media filters last?
These thicker filters hold more dust than a standard 1-inch filter. Many last 3 to 6 months or longer, depending on the filter and your household. Check them monthly when they're new to learn how quickly they load up.
How can I remember when to change my air filter?
Know your filter size, keep replacements on hand, and set a monthly reminder on your phone. Another simple trick: write the date on the edge of the new filter when you put it in, so there's no guessing when it was last changed.
Replacement
Before you buy a system.
How do I know if I need a repair or a replacement?
We look at your system’s age, how it is performing and what the repair would cost, then walk you through both paths with honest, no-pressure guidance. Sometimes the repair is the right call, and we will say so.
How much does a new HVAC system cost?
It depends on the size of your home, the type of system and what the installation needs. Replacement estimates are free, and we offer financing through Synchrony and Wells Fargo for qualified buyers, subject to credit approval. Ask for details.
Do you register the warranty?
Yes. Every system we install is registered with the manufacturer, and extended warranty options are available.
What happens to my old system?
We haul it away when the new one is in, so it is never left for you to deal with.
Can you help with rebates?
Yes. We submit rebate paperwork on your behalf, so you are not chasing forms after the install.
Which brands do you install?
We are an American Standard Platinum Dealer, a Mitsubishi Electric Elite Diamond Contractor and a WaterFurnace geothermal contractor, and we will recommend what fits your home, your goals and your budget.
Ready when you are.
Book the $89 residential diagnostic, get an instant quote, or call us.