A. Would you buy an automobile and not have the oil changed? Of course not! But when you don't have maintenance performed on your equipment, you are running the same risk, a breakdown. Maintenance not only keeps your unit operating properly, it can save you money on operating costs. A dirty or inefficient unit costs more to operate and has to work harder to perform the normal tasks it was designed to do.

Q. How often should I have my equipment checked and maintenance performed?

A. The answer to this question depends on the application of the equipment. Generally speaking, a HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system should be checked and maintenance performed no less than twice yearly. Commercial Refrigeration and ice machines should also be checked at least twice yearly, but realistically, need to be checked quarterly for top performance.

Q. I have a home warranty that is supposed to cover my air conditioning unit but I can't seem to get any help with repair. What should I do?

A. We have helped many homeowners with this situation, and can usually provide same-day service. Call us for details.

Q. Why should I sign a Commercial Maintenance Agreement when I can just call whenever I feel like the unit should be checked and maintenance performed?

A. Several reasons. First, with a signed maintenance agreement, you will know how much each inspection will cost beforehand. Second, all Commercial Maintenance Agreement customers are given preferential status on an emergency service call.

Q. Does Colt give free estimates?

A. We give free estimates on system component change-outs, complete system change-outs and new installations.

Q. Is there anything I should check before I call for service call on my equipment?

A. First and foremost, make sure you have checked the system circuit breaker to make sure it has not tripped. Countless times we respond to a service call and all that is required is to turn the breaker back on. A tripped circuit breaker is not always a sign of a mechanical failure. Something as simple as a power surge can be enough to trip a breaker. Another item to check on a HVAC system is the air filter. A dirty air filter can cause the unit to run inefficiently and if it is dirty enough, can actually cause the unit to shut down.

Q. How much is a service call?

A. It depends upon the customer's location and type of equipment. Call our office to determine how much it will cost.

Q. Will a technician respond to an emergency call after hours?

A. Colt offers service 365 days per year. Call us at 602-712-1244. If you receive the answering service, leave a message and a technician will respond within 30 minutes. We take our customers needs very seriously and will always respond.

Q. If I know my unit is low on refrigerant, why can't I just have the technician install refrigerant in it when it needs it? Why do I need to have the leak found and repaired?

A. The EPA requires that we not continually just "charge" a unit with refrigerant without searching for the source of the leak.