- HEP Heat and Air
- Indoor Air Quality

Indoor Air Quality
Indoor Air Quality | HVAC Unit Replacement | Heating and Air Conditioning | Tellico Plains
Nestled in the crisp mountain air of Tellico Plains, HEP’s indoor air quality experts make sure the comfort inside your home matches the beauty outside. Our certified technicians evaluate every duct, filter, and thermostat to determine whether simple maintenance or a full HVAC unit replacement will deliver the steady temperatures and healthy airflow your family deserves. From energy-efficient systems that cut utility bills to advanced filtration that removes pollen, dust, and pet dander, we design solutions that keep every breath pure and every room perfectly tempered.
When it’s time to retire an aging furnace or struggling AC, we arrive with transparent pricing, financing options, and a workmanship guarantee backed by decades of East Tennessee know-how. We haul away the old equipment, install the new system to code, and calibrate it for peak performance—often in a single day—so you can get back to enjoying mountain sunsets without worrying about allergy flare-ups or sudden breakdowns. Discover why Tellico Plains homeowners trust HEP for friendly service, spotless clean-ups, and indoor comfort that lasts all year long.
FAQs
How can I tell it’s time to replace my HVAC unit in Tellico Plains?
Most systems last 12–15 years. Warning signs include frequent or costly repairs, rooms that are too hot or cold, rising electric bills, loud operation, or a unit that still uses outlawed R-22 refrigerant. Because Tellico Plains has humid summers and chilly winters, an aging system has to work extra hard, so once repair costs approach 30–40 % of a new system’s price, replacement is usually the smarter investment.
What size HVAC system does my Tellico Plains home need?
Proper sizing is critical for comfort, efficiency, and indoor air quality. A contractor should perform a Manual J load calculation that factors in square footage, insulation levels, window quality, orientation to the sun, and even the number of occupants. Oversized units short-cycle, leaving moisture and pollutants in the air; undersized units run nonstop and still can’t keep up. Never choose equipment strictly by tonnage or square footage averages—let a load calculation guide the decision.
How will a new HVAC system improve my indoor air quality?
Modern systems come with variable-speed blowers that move air more consistently through advanced filtration (MERV 11–13 or higher). Many Tellico Plains homeowners add options such as whole-house dehumidifiers, UV germicidal lights, or energy-recovery ventilators (ERVs) during replacement. These accessories reduce mold spores, pollen, pet dander, and excess humidity—key concerns in our Appalachian climate—while sealed, newly installed ductwork prevents attic or crawl-space contaminants from entering the living area.
How long does an HVAC replacement take, and will I be without heating or cooling?
A straight change-out of an air-conditioning and heating system generally takes 6–10 hours. If ductwork, electrical upgrades, or IAQ accessories are added, the project may extend to a day and a half. Your contractor will reconnect one system at a time, so indoor temperatures are usually affected for less than a workday. Most companies set up portable heaters or spot coolers for vulnerable occupants if extreme weather hits during the swap.
Are there energy-efficient or smart HVAC options suitable for the Tellico Plains climate?
Yes. High-SEER2 heat pumps with variable-capacity compressors excel in our mixed-humid Zone 4A climate, providing efficient cooling in summer and reliable heat down to the mid-20s. Dual-fuel systems pair a heat pump with a gas furnace for the coldest nights. Wi-Fi thermostats let you monitor humidity, filter status, and energy use from your phone, and many models qualify for Energy Star® certification, lowering your electric bills by 20 % or more compared with the older equipment they replace.
What incentives or financing are available for HVAC replacements in Tellico Plains?
Homeowners can claim a 30 % federal tax credit (up to $2,000) under the Inflation Reduction Act for qualifying high-efficiency heat pumps and related IAQ components. The TVA EnergyRight® program often provides $200–$600 rebates for heat pumps with at least 16 SEER2. Local utility companies sometimes add bill credits for smart thermostats. Manufacturers run seasonal rebates, and many HVAC contractors offer 0 % APR financing for 12–18 months, making it easier to upgrade without a large upfront payment.