Skip to main content

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions About Our Services

Have questions? You’re not alone. At Home Therapy, we believe clear answers help you make confident decisions about your plumbing and HVAC needs. Here are some of the most common questions we get from homeowners across the Tampa Bay Area about our service offerings and Therapy Plans.

Air Conditioner Repair Technician Measuring Pressure Gauges
Home Therapist Hero Bottom Triangle Mask
What Warranty do you Offer?

We offer 1 year labor warranty for most repairs, some maintenance related repairs like drain line flush only receive 3 months of warranty. When installing a new system, you receive 10 years of warranty on parts and 2 years on labor. 

All of our jobs are backed by our satisfaction guarantee. 

Are you Licensed and Insured?

We are licensed to do HVAC work in the state of Florida, our license is CAC1819196. We are also insured. 

How often should I do AC Maintenance?

It is recommended to have your AC unit maintained at least once a year, preferably before the start of the summer season when the AC is used more frequently. 

Regular AC maintenance helps to ensure that the unit is operating efficiently and effectively, and it can also help to extend the lifespan of the unit. During a maintenance service, an HVAC technician will inspect and clean the unit, check for any potential issues, and perform any necessary repairs or adjustments. 

In addition to annual maintenance, it’s also important to regularly change the air filter in your AC unit, which can help to improve indoor air quality and ensure proper airflow.

What maintenance is required for AC?

Regular maintenance keeps your AC running efficiently and extends its lifespan. Key tasks include:

Is a water heater flush necessary?

Flushing your water heater helps keep it efficient, safe, and long-lasting. Here’s why it matters:

  • Removes Sediment: Buildup at the bottom of the tank reduces efficiency, causes strange noises, and can shorten the unit’s lifespan.

  • Improves Water Quality: Sediment can lead to discolored water, odd smells, or a metallic taste.

  • Prevents Performance Issues: Flushing helps maintain steady hot water temperatures and reduces pressure buildup risks.

  • Saves Money: A clean tank uses less energy, lowering your utility bills.

  • Helps Catch Problems Early: Flushing lets you spot issues like corroded parts before they cause major damage.

Experts recommend flushing your water heater once a year—more often if you have hard water or heavy usage.

How often should a water softener be serviced?

Maintenance needs vary by water usage, hardness, and softener type. Here’s a quick guide:

  • Check Salt Levels: Monthly – Ensure the brine tank has enough salt and no salt bridge has formed.

  • Refill Salt: Every 4–8 weeks – Based on usage. Low salt means poor softening.

  • Clean Resin Bed: Once or twice a year – Prevents buildup and keeps softening effective.

  • Replace Filters: Every 6–12 months – Follow manufacturer recommendations.

  • Annual Inspection: Catch hidden issues before they become costly problems.

  • Manual Regeneration: Do as needed if water isn’t soft—acts as a quick fix.

  • Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Helps maintain performance and protect warranties.

Offering water softener maintenance as part of your service plans ensures better performance and longer system life.

How often should I service my AC or heating system?

We recommend HVAC maintenance twice a year—once in the spring for cooling and once in the fall for heating. This keeps your system efficient and prevents costly breakdowns.

How long does an HVAC system last?

Most systems last 12–15 years, though regular maintenance can extend their lifespan closer to 20 years.

What are signs I need HVAC repair?

Uneven temperatures, strange noises, weak airflow, and rising energy bills are all signs your system needs service.

Does Home Therapist offer HVAC warranties?

Yes. We provide manufacturer warranties of 10–12 years plus workmanship guarantees ranging from 1 to 12 years depending on the installation package.

What is considered an HVAC emergency?

No heating or cooling, burning smells, loud banging, refrigerant leaks, or system shutdowns all qualify as emergencies.

How much does emergency HVAC repair cost?

Costs vary depending on the issue, but typical repairs range from 0–0. We provide upfront, flat-rate pricing.

How much does ductwork repair cost?

Most duct repairs cost 0–0 depending on damage and accessibility.

When should ductwork be replaced?

Air ducts generally last 20–25 years. If your ducts are over 15 years old and showing leaks, rust, or poor airflow, replacement is recommended.

Do leaky ducts increase my energy bills?

Yes. Leaky ducts can waste up to 30% of conditioned air, driving up your energy costs.

What types of ductwork do you install?

We install sheet metal ducts for durability, flex ducts for efficiency and ease, and antimicrobial options for improved air quality.

How often should air ducts be cleaned?

Every 3–5 years, or sooner if you have allergies, pets, or notice dust buildup.

What are signs my ducts need sealing?

Uneven room temperatures, high energy bills, whistling noises, or visible gaps in duct joints.

How much does duct sealing cost?

On average, duct sealing ranges from 0–,000, depending on system size.

What plumbing emergencies require immediate service?

Burst pipes, overflowing toilets, sewer backups, major leaks, and no running water all require emergency plumbing repair.

How much does emergency plumbing cost?

Typical emergency plumbing visits cost 0–0, depending on severity and time of day.

Do plumbers replace drains and sewer lines?

Yes. We perform full drain replacement, sewer line repair, and trenchless replacements across Tampa Bay.

How much does drain cleaning cost?

Professional drain cleaning in Tampa Bay typically costs 0–0.

Do chemical drain cleaners damage pipes?

Yes. Products like Drano can corrode pipes. We recommend professional cleaning instead.

What dissolves hair in a clogged drain?

Enzyme-based cleaners are safe, but severe clogs require professional snaking or hydro-jetting.

How long do water heaters last?

Traditional tank heaters last 8–12 years, while tankless water heaters can last 20 years or more.

How much does it cost to replace a water heater?

Replacement ranges from ,200–,500, depending on type and size.

What is a water softener and do I need one?

A water softener removes minerals like calcium and magnesium, preventing scale buildup and extending the life of plumbing and appliances.

How much does a water softener cost?

Installation ranges from ,500–,000, depending on the system.

What’s the difference between a water softener and a water filter?

Softeners remove hardness (scale), while filters remove contaminants like chlorine, heavy metals, and sediment. Many Tampa Bay homes benefit from both.

Does Home Therapist offer maintenance plans?

Yes. Our Therapy Maintenance Plans provide annual tune-ups, water heater flushes, discounts on repairs, and priority scheduling.

How much does a membership cost?

Plans start at just /month per system and include exclusive perks.

What’s included in the Premium Plan?

The Premium Plan includes two AC tune-ups per year, a water heater flush, 10% off repairs, free estimates, and a 60-day drain line guarantee.

Is Home Therapist licensed and insured?

Yes. We are a fully licensed HVAC and plumbing contractor in Florida with ,000,000 coverage for your protection.

Do you offer free estimates?

Yes. We always provide free, upfront estimates with no hidden fees.

What areas do you serve?

We serve all of Tampa Bay, including Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Brandon, Riverview, Largo, and surrounding areas.

More Questions? Contact Us Today!

Contact Home Therapist
About Your Next Project

Call Home Therapist Logo Right Facing