Frequently Asked Questions
Real Answers to Real HVAC Questions
The questions below come from actual conversations we have with homeowners across Los Angeles County.
If you don’t see your question here, reach out, we’re happy to walk through anything specific to your home.
Mini Splits & Central Air
What Is the Difference Between a Mini Split and Central Air?
Central air uses a single outdoor unit, an indoor furnace or air handler, and a network of ducts to cool the whole house from one thermostat. A mini split is ductless: each indoor unit cools the room it’s installed in, with its own thermostat. Mini splits are typically more efficient and easier to install in homes without existing ductwork.
Which System Is Better for My Home?
That depends on the home. Central air usually makes sense for larger houses with existing ductwork in good shape. Mini splits work better for older homes, room additions, ADUs, or anywhere ductwork would be expensive to install. During an evaluation, we look at your space, layout, and how you use each room before recommending one over the other.
How Many Rooms Can a Mini Split System Cover?
A single outdoor unit can support anywhere from one to eight indoor units depending on the model. A multi-zone setup with five or six rooms is common for whole-home coverage. Each indoor unit runs independently, so you’re not forced to cool rooms you aren’t using.
What Is the Difference Between Wall Mounted, Cassette, and Slim Duct Systems?
Wall mounted units are the most common, installed high on an interior wall with a visible indoor unit. Cassette units recess into the ceiling with a flush grille that distributes air in multiple directions. Slim duct units hide above the ceiling or in a soffit, feeding short duct runs to discreet vents, similar in appearance to central air.
Installation & Requirements
How Long Does Installation Take?
Most standard installations take 2-3 hours. Multi-zone mini split setups, full central air replacements, or projects with electrical or ductwork modifications take longer, typically a full day or two. We give you a clear timeline before work begins.
Do I Need Permits?
Yes, most HVAC installations in Los Angeles County require permits. We handle pulling them and coordinating any required inspections, so you don’t have to navigate that part yourself.
Will I Need an Electrical Upgrade?
Sometimes. Older homes with limited electrical capacity may need a panel upgrade or a dedicated circuit added before a new HVAC system can be installed. We check this during the evaluation and let you know upfront if any electrical work is part of the project.
How Do I Choose the Right Size System?
System size is calculated based on square footage, ceiling height, insulation, window exposure, and how the space is used. Oversized systems cycle too often and waste energy, while undersized systems struggle to keep up. We use a proper load calculation during the evaluation rather than rough estimates, so the system matches the home.
Efficiency & Performance
Are Mini Splits Energy Efficient?
Yes. Mini splits typically carry higher SEER ratings than central air, and because there’s no ductwork, you avoid the 20-30% energy losses ducts often cause. They also let you cool only the rooms you’re using, which lowers consumption further.
Can They Heat and Cool?
Yes. Most modern mini splits are heat pumps, meaning they handle both heating and cooling from the same system. That makes them well-suited to Southern California’s mild winters, where a single mini split can replace both an AC unit and a separate heater.
Cost & Process
Do You Offer Financing?
Yes. We work with GoodLeap, Synchrony, and Snap Finance to offer flexible financing options with comfortable monthly payments. Applications are quick, approvals are typically fast, and we walk you through which lender fits your situation.
Can I Qualify for Rebates?
Often, yes. We’re qualified to assist customers with rebate programs including HEEHRA, Go Zero, and various local and state energy-efficiency programs. Eligibility depends on income, equipment type, and program requirements. We check what you qualify for before any work begins.
What Warranties Are Included?
Every installation comes with both labor and equipment warranties. Equipment warranties vary by manufacturer and model, typically ranging from 5 to 12 years on parts and longer on compressors. We explain the specifics for whatever system you’re considering.
Service
Do You Replace Old Systems?
Yes. Central air and mini split replacements are one of our core services. We assess your current setup, recommend a modern replacement that fits your needs and budget, and handle removal of the old equipment as part of the job.
Do You Remove Old Equipment?
Yes. Haul-away and proper disposal of old furnaces, condensers, and mini splits is included with most replacement projects. You don’t have to deal with the old unit yourself.
Do Systems Require Maintenance?
Yes. Both mini splits and central air benefit from annual or seasonal maintenance: filter changes, coil cleaning, refrigerant checks, and general inspection. Regular maintenance catches small issues early, keeps efficiency high, and extends the lifespan of the system significantly.
General Questions
What Areas Do You Serve?
We serve homes and small commercial properties across Los Angeles County, including residential and light commercial projects.
Are You Licensed and Insured?
Yes. Fime HVAC is fully licensed, bonded, and insured for HVAC work in California.
How Long Have You Been in Business?
Fime HVAC has been operating for 16 years, with a team that brings over 40 years of combined HVAC experience.
How Do I Get Started?
Reach out by phone, email, or through the contact form on our site. We’ll set up an in-person evaluation at a time that works for you, with no obligation to move forward.
Still Have Questions?
We’re happy to answer anything specific to your home or project. Call, email, or send a message and we’ll get back to you with information, not a sales pitch.
