What Is a Zone Control System?
At Ben’s Heating & Air Conditioning, we install zone control systems for Portland, OR homes that divide your living space into separate “zones,” each with its own thermostat. This setup gives you precise control over temperatures in different areas, reducing energy waste and eliminating hot and cold spots.
Ready for personalized comfort? Learn more about zone control system installation or give us a call today.
Why Is My Furnace Filter Wet?
If your furnace filter is wet, it's often due to a clogged condensate drain line, faulty humidifier, or excess humidity—common issues we see in the Portland area’s damp climate. A wet filter can lead to mold and system damage, so don’t wait to get it checked out.
Give us a call for a fast furnace inspection in Portland or nearby.
What Is a Gas Furnace?
A gas furnace uses natural gas or propane to create warm air, which is then circulated through your ducts. It’s one of the most efficient ways to heat homes in Portland and the Willamette Valley, especially during the colder months.
Considering a new furnace? Explore our gas furnace installation services.
What Does SEER Mean?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and it measures how efficiently an air conditioner or heat pump cools your home. A higher SEER rating means better energy savings—which is especially important for keeping utility bills in check during Portland summers.
Want help choosing a high-efficiency system? Contact us for recommendations.
What Is That Smell Coming from My Furnace Vents?
Strange smells from your furnace vents—like burning dust, mildew, or gas—could mean anything from a dirty filter to a dangerous gas leak. If something doesn’t smell right, it’s always safest to shut off the system and call a professional.
We're available for emergency furnace service in Portland and surrounding areas.
What Are the Benefits of Ductless HVAC Installation?
We recommend ductless HVAC systems in Portland homes that lack ductwork or need zoned comfort. Benefits include:
- Lower energy bills
- Individual room control
- Quiet operation
- Improved indoor air quality
- Easy installation
Discover more reasons to go ductless here.
How Does a Ductless Mini Split Work?
A ductless mini split includes an outdoor unit and one or more indoor air handlers. Refrigerant flows between them to move heat in or out of your home depending on the season. It’s an ideal solution for ADUs, home additions, and older homes in Portland without ducts.
Call us today for a free ductless consultation.
Will I Save Money Heating My Home with a Heat Pump Compared to Other Heating Systems?
Yes—especially in the moderate climate of the Portland area, heat pumps can offer significant savings because they transfer heat instead of generating it. That means lower monthly utility bills compared to electric resistance or gas systems.
We can help you compare costs—schedule a heat pump consultation today.
What Are the Different Types of Heat Pumps?
The main types we install in the Portland region include:
- Air-source heat pumps
- Ductless mini splits
Each type has its own advantages depending on your home's size, layout, and energy goals.
Explore our full range of heat pump services here.
What Are Some Signs That Indicate I Need Professional AC Repair?
Wondering why your AC isn’t working like it should? Common signs include:
- Weak or warm airflow
- Frequent on/off cycling
- Strange noises or odors
- Higher energy bills
- Leaks or puddles near the unit
If you're dealing with AC trouble in Portland, give us a call for fast diagnostics and repair.
How Often Do I Need to Schedule Furnace Maintenance Services?
We recommend annual furnace maintenance, ideally in the fall before temperatures drop. Regular tune-ups help your system run more efficiently and safely throughout Portland’s chilly winters.
Join our maintenance plan and never miss a service!
Why Is My HVAC System Stopping and Then Starting Up Again?
If your system keeps turning off and on, it might be short cycling—often caused by a dirty filter, thermostat problems, or incorrect system sizing. It can drive up energy costs and wear out components faster.
We’ll diagnose the issue quickly—schedule service today.
What Can I Do to Keep My Heat Pump Running Efficiently Throughout the Year?
Here’s how to keep your heat pump in top shape:
- Change the filter every 1–3 months
- Keep the outdoor unit clear of debris
- Schedule maintenance twice a year (heating & cooling seasons)
- Check thermostat settings regularly
Sign up for our heat pump maintenance plan for peace of mind year-round.
How Do I Know When I Need Furnace Replacement?
Ask yourself:
- Is your furnace over 15 years old?
- Have repairs become frequent or expensive?
- Are your energy bills rising?
If yes, it may be time to consider a replacement.
Contact us for a free estimate on furnace replacement in Portland.
What Is AFUE?
The AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating tells you how much of your furnace’s fuel is actually converted to heat. A 90% AFUE furnace turns 90% of fuel into usable heat, while wasting just 10%.
Let us help you choose a high-efficiency model for your home and budget.
What Is the Average Life Expectancy of a Furnace?
Most furnaces last 15 to 18 years with proper maintenance. If yours is in that range, it’s a good time to start evaluating your replacement options.
Request a furnace inspection today.
When Will I Need Air Conditioner Replacement?
You’ll want to consider replacement if your AC is:
- Over 10–15 years old
- Breaking down frequently
- Not cooling your home properly
- Using outdated refrigerant (like R-22 or R-410A)
We offer expert AC replacement in Portland and surrounding communities.
How Often Should I Change My AC Filter?
Change your AC filter every 1 to 3 months, depending on usage, pets, and allergies. A clean filter improves airflow and reduces strain on your system.
Need help finding the right filter size? Give us a call—we're happy to help.
What Should I Do If My Heat Pump Isn’t Heating and Cooling My Home Properly?
First, check the thermostat settings and change the air filter. If the problem persists, there could be a refrigerant issue, sensor failure, or dirty coils.
Schedule a professional inspection and we’ll get your comfort back on track.