Frequently Asked Questions

In Houma's humid, subtropical environment, HVAC systems should be serviced at least twice a year—once before cooling season and once before heating season. This proactive maintenance helps prevent breakdowns during peak demand and extends system lifespan. At Coastal Mechanical Contractors, we recommend seasonal tune-ups to maintain efficiency and catch issues early.

Boilers generate heat by warming water or creating steam for heating, while chillers remove heat to cool water for air conditioning and refrigeration. Each system serves opposite temperature control needs. Commercial and industrial facilities often use both systems to manage year-round climate control efficiently.

Geothermal systems use underground loops to exchange heat with the earth, which stays at a stable temperature year-round. In summer, heat is pulled from your building and transferred underground; in winter, warmth is drawn from the ground into your space. At Coastal Mechanical Contractors, we design and install geothermal solutions for long-term energy savings.

System size, efficiency rating, installation complexity, ductwork condition, and equipment brand all impact installation cost. Larger spaces or multi-zone setups require more capacity and labor. Proper sizing and design are critical—undersized or oversized systems waste energy and reduce comfort.

Yes, ductless mini-split systems are ideal for older homes, additions, and retrofits where installing ductwork would be impractical or costly. They provide zoned comfort control and energy-efficient heating and cooling without tearing into walls. At Coastal Mechanical Contractors, we handle professional setup and system testing for reliable performance.

Skipping regular filter changes and annual professional tune-ups is the most common mistake. Dirty filters reduce airflow, strain equipment, and spike energy bills. Neglected maintenance shortens system life and increases the risk of emergency breakdowns during extreme weather.

Most standby generator installations take one to three days, depending on electrical upgrades, fuel source setup, and permitting requirements. Load calculations, automatic transfer switch installation, and system testing are essential steps. At Coastal Mechanical Contractors, we ensure code-compliant installations and reliable backup power during outages.

Yes, tankless water heaters typically reduce energy costs by 20–30% because they heat water on demand instead of maintaining a full tank. They also last longer and take up less space. Savings depend on household usage and installation quality.

Most Level 2 EV chargers require a 240-volt circuit and dedicated breaker, which may involve panel upgrades or capacity expansions if your system lacks space or power. Code-compliant installation and permitting are essential. At Coastal Mechanical Contractors, we assess your electrical infrastructure and deliver future-ready charging solutions.

Backflow preventers protect the public water supply from contamination caused by reversed flow from commercial plumbing or irrigation systems. Local and state regulations require installation, annual testing, and certification to ensure compliance and safety. Coastal Mechanical Contractors provides certified backflow installation, testing, and repair.

If your system is over 15 years old, requires frequent repairs, or has lost significant efficiency, replacement is often more cost-effective. Modern systems offer better energy savings and reliability. At Coastal Mechanical Contractors, we help you weigh repair costs against long-term performance and comfort.

Zoned systems let you heat or cool individual rooms or areas independently, reducing energy waste and improving comfort. They're ideal for multi-story homes, offices, or spaces with varying occupancy. Ductless mini-splits and advanced thermostats make zoning simple and efficient.