How-To Hub
HVAC How-To Guides for Homeowners
Plain-English, step-by-step guides for the jobs a homeowner can safely do, written by the HVAC technicians who service Elgin and the Fox Valley. Start with a guide below, or call us when a job is better left to a pro.
Home Comfort Basics
The one job every homeowner should know how to do, and do on time.
Filters
Change your air filter
Find the filter, read its size, match the new one and set it with the arrow pointing the right way. Includes how often to change each type. Open the air filter guide.
Amana Smart Thermostat Guides
Six short guides for the Amana brand smart thermostat and the SkyportHome app. The thermostat help center explains what the thermostat does and links to each one.
Automation
Set up geofencing
Let your phone’s location tell the thermostat when you leave and return. Geofencing guide.
Voice
Link Alexa or Google
Control the temperature by voice once the app is linked. Voice control guide.
Fixes
Restart or update
Restart the thermostat and check for software updates when it acts up. Restart and update guide.
Know When to Call a Pro
A how-to guide is the right tool for filters, settings and apps. These signs mean the job is for a technician:
- Ice on the indoor coil or refrigerant lines, or water pooling around the furnace or air handler.
- A burning smell, a gas smell, or a carbon monoxide alarm. Leave the home and call 911 or the gas company first.
- The system short cycles, blows weak air or runs constantly even with a clean filter.
- Anything that involves refrigerant, gas piping or electrical wiring. Those jobs need licensed, certified technicians.
Keep Learning
More places to look when you want to understand your system before you decide.
Answers
HVAC FAQ
Short answers to common questions about furnaces, AC, heat pumps, refrigerants and warranties. Read the FAQ.
Terms
HVAC glossary
Plain-English meanings for SEER2, AFUE, R-454B and the rest of the jargon. Browse the glossary.
How-To Hub FAQs
Can I do my own HVAC repairs?
Some jobs are safe for homeowners: changing the filter, adjusting thermostat settings, keeping vents and outdoor units clear, and checking that the system has power. Work on refrigerant, gas lines, electrical parts and internal components should be done by licensed technicians. Handling refrigerant legally requires EPA certification.
Do the thermostat guides work for other brands?
They are written for the Amana brand smart thermostat and the SkyportHome app. Other brands use different menus, so check that thermostat’s manual. If you want help choosing or installing a different one, see our smart thermostat installation service.
How often should I change my air filter?
Standard 1-inch filters usually need changing every one to three months. Thicker media filters last longer. The full chart is in our air filter guide.
Where can I find what an HVAC term means?
Our HVAC glossary explains common terms in plain English, and the FAQ answers the questions we hear most.
Rather Have a Technician Handle It?
Call or book online and we will take care of it, from a filter check to a full tune-up.
See our furnace maintenance and AC maintenance visits, or the maintenance plan.
These guides are general homeowner information and are not a substitute for the manufacturer’s manual or a licensed technician’s advice. Amana is a registered trademark of Maytag Corporation or its related companies and is used under license.
