Met with 4 different contractors regarding the replacement of our furnace and air conditioner. Really got a good feel for what equipment would best serve our needs after Logan explained a few choices and price ranges, right at our kitchen table. Logan wasn't just giving us a sales pitch; he was describing what he was personally going to do the next day. Logan and Shawn arrived right on time, protected the stairs and carpet, carefully removed the old equipment, and professionally installed the new equipment. What a pleasure dealing with people that do what they say they are going to do, and actually exceed expectations.
Thanks Much, Great Job!
AR
Al Runde
Jul 11, 2025
5.0
Our AC unit died on the 3ed of July , Franzen had a tech here to access my situation and we needed a total AC overhaul of our 30 year old unit.
We were quoted a good price and great finance option I qualified for.
We just had our new unit installed by their crew and could not be happier , we signed up for the service on the new unit and our older boiler.
Great service , great techs, 5 stars
al runde
Batavia
CC
CFFRV
Jun 23, 2025
5.0
Outstanding service! Thank you, Franzen Heating & Cooling, for coming out so quickly and repairing our AC unit. Jason did a fantastic job and explained everything. He even took photos and showed me the old part that had burned out. I learned a lot and would highly recommend your company. Thank you so much!
Frequently Asked Questions About Franzen Heating & Cooling
What is carbon monoxide?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, practically odorless, and tasteless gas or liquid. It results from incomplete oxidation of carbon in combustion.
- Burns with a violet flame
- Slightly soluble in water
- Soluble in alcohol and benzene
- Specific gravity: 0.96716
- Boiling point: -190°C
- Solidification point: -207°C
- Specific volume: 13.8 cu. ft./lb. (70°F)
- Auto ignition temperature (liquid) 1128°F
- Classed as an inorganic compound
What are some sources of carbon monoxide?
Sources of CO include:
- Unvented kerosene and gas space heaters
- Leaking chimneys and furnaces
- Back-drafting from furnaces, gas water heaters, wood stoves, and fireplaces
- Gas stoves
- Generators and other gasoline-powered equipment
- Automobile exhaust from attached garages
- Tobacco smoke
Incomplete oxidation during combustion in gas ranges and unvented gas or kerosene heaters may cause high concentrations of CO in indoor air. Worn or poorly adjusted and maintained combustion devices (e.g., boilers, furnaces) can be significant sources, or if the flue is improperly sized, blocked, disconnected, or is leaking. Auto, truck, or bus exhaust from attached garages, nearby roads, or parking areas can also be a source.
What are the health effects associated with carbon monoxide?
Effects at low concentrations include fatigue in healthy people and chest pain in people with heart disease. At higher concentrations, effects include impaired vision and coordination, headaches, dizziness, confusion, and nausea. Can cause flu-like symptoms that clear up after leaving home. CO is fatal at very high concentrations. Acute effects are due to the formation of carboxyhemoglobin in the blood, which inhibits oxygen intake. At moderate concentrations, angina, impaired vision, and reduced brain function may result. At higher concentrations, CO exposure can be fatal.
How often should I clean or change my furnace filter?
How often you change your furnace filter depends on the type of filter and how you use your furnace. Select the type of filter from the list below to find out what you should be doing.
Disposable filters: Disposable filters should be changed every 6 to 8 weeks. Disposable filters are not very efficient and provide only a basic amount of air cleaning. If your furnace fan runs continuously, cleaning should be performed every 3 to 4 weeks.
Electrostatic air cleaner: Electrostatic air cleaners must be cleaned monthly. To clean them, vacuum the nylon media and then rinse the filter with water. Rinse in the opposite direction of the airflow. The older the filter, the more difficult it is to clean.
Electronic air cleaner (EAC): EACs work very well until the cells get dirty. When cleaning the cells, be careful not to break any of the thin wires on the outside of the cells. If one of these wires breaks, it will not work. Clean the prescreens as well.
Hammock: Hammock filters should be washed and replaced every 8 to 10 weeks. When you purchase a replacement hammock filter, it may be a little larger than the metal frame it’s attached to. Install the filter on the frame and then trim off the excess.
Large pleated media filter: Replace the media cartridge annually. Arrange to have your cartridge replaced at the same time as your annual maintenance.
Washable filters: Washable filters should be cleaned every 6 to 8 weeks. If you run your furnace fan continuously, wash filters every 3 to 4 weeks. If there is visual degradation, please replace.
How long does an air conditioner last?
This will vary widely from location to location. Air conditioning units that are used frequently will need to be replaced more frequently. Generally, an air conditioner should last 11 to 18 years.
Is annual maintenance really necessary for my HVAC system?
YES! Annual maintenance on the unit extends the life and reduces the annual operating costs. Annual maintenance inspections often spot small problems before they become large and very expensive repairs.
How do I weatherize my heating system?
Most heating systems are quite reliable and will provide you with quick, comfortable heat when you need it, providing you take good care of the system. If you have air conditioning, you should shut it down and cover it for the winter. Follow these steps prior to furnace use:
1. Clean or change your furnace filter.
2. If your furnace or boiler has a pilot light, make sure it is on.
3. Set your furnace to the “heat” position and turn up the thermostat.
4. Allow your furnace to run through a couple of cycles to make sure it is working properly.
5. Do a quick visual inspection of the furnace area to make sure there are no items that could interfere with airflow or combustion.
6. Call us at Franzen Heating & Cooling to arrange for a professional cleaning, inspection, and precision tune-up. This takes time and should be performed with care.
What do I look for when buying an air conditioner?
The most important thing to look for when purchasing a central air conditioner is the contractor who will be installing it. The best piece of equipment, if installed incorrectly, will not give you the comfort you deserve.
HVAC equipment, and air conditioning equipment in particular, requires that great skill and care be taken during the installation process. If just one braze or solder joint is not correct it could lead to leaks of refrigerant into the atmosphere and potential contamination in the refrigerant system. These items could be costly to repair, not to mention time-consuming and an aggravation for you. Please contact us for professional assistance.
What does AFUE stand for?
AFUE stands for annual fuel utilization efficiency. If you get a bill for $100 for using just your furnace, which is 50% efficient, you put $50 worth of heat in your home $50 worth of heat outside.
We are having trouble getting cool air upstairs in our two-story home. What can I do to make the upstairs more comfortable?
This temperature variation is caused by the fact that cool air is heavy. Heavy air requires more effort to move, especially upwards. Your furnace fan has to work much harder to get the air up two stories. Additionally, cool air, unlike warm air, tends to fall, so once you manage to get the air upstairs, it will naturally fall back to the first floor.
1. Make sure your furnace fan is on the highest possible setting. Most furnaces installed today will have a multi-speed, direct-drive fan motor. Have your service contractor check to make sure that the highest speed is being used for air conditioning. If your fan motor has belts and pulleys, check with your contractor about installing a larger pulley.
2. Adjust the balancing on your ductwork to force as much cool air upstairs as possible. If your ductwork is accessible from your basement and has dampers installed in each of the supply air runs, make sure the dampers for the upper floor are fully open. You can close any dampers for rooms on the first floor that do not get much use or are very small. Some examples may be a powder room, formal living room, or dining room. You should keep the dampers fully open for the kitchen and the main living or family area. If the ductwork is not accessible or doesn’t have any dampers, don’t despair. You can balance the airflow by opening and closing the dampers in the supply air registers. If you cannot get a register closed, we have been told that covering the register with a telephone book works well. Don’t forget to re-balance the ductwork system when you switch over to heating. During the heating season, you want most of the warm air delivered to the first floor. It will rise on its own to the second floor.
3. Use fans to help move cooler air. Placing a large fan at the top of the stairway can help to draw the cooler air up. A ceiling fan installed on the second floor can also be a big improvement.
4. Check the return air grills. Make sure they are clean.
5. Consider installing “high-wall” return air grills on the second floor.
6. High-wall return air grills are installed near the ceiling, not near the floor. This enables the furnace to draw the warmest air from the top of the house back into the system. Your service contractor can give you more information and let you know if it is possible to install high wall grills on your system.
What types of HVAC services does Franzen Heating & Cooling provide?
Franzen Heating & Cooling offers residential, commercial, and industrial HVAC services, including heating and air conditioning installation and repair, duct cleaning, sheet metal fabrication, and water heater services.
What are Franzen Heating & Cooling's business hours?
Franzen Heating & Cooling operates 24/7, providing emergency service at all times.
Where is Franzen Heating & Cooling located?
Franzen Heating & Cooling is located at 219 Woodlawn Ave, Aurora, IL 60506, USA.
What payment options are available at Franzen Heating & Cooling?
Customers can pay via American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, Financing, Invoice, MasterCard, and Visa.
How often should furnace filters be cleaned or changed?
Frequency depends on filter type: disposable filters every 6-8 weeks, electrostatic cleaners monthly, electronic air cleaners as needed, hammock filters every 8-10 weeks, large pleated media filters annually, and washable filters every 6-8 weeks.
Why is annual HVAC maintenance important?
Annual maintenance extends the unit's lifespan and reduces operating costs by identifying small issues before they become expensive problems.
Which areas does Franzen Heating & Cooling serve?
They serve multiple cities including Aurora, Oswego, Batavia, Naperville, Geneva, West Chicago, Plainfield, St. Charles, Lisle, Bolingbrook, Yorkville, and Montgomery.
What local landmarks or businesses are near Franzen Heating & Cooling's location?
Nearby points of interest include Aurora Township Youth Center, Fehr Graham Engineering & Environmental, Automotive Plus, and Chico's Towing Company. Customers visiting the HVAC service can also find automotive repairs, community centers, and other services nearby for convenience.
How can nearby community centers benefit customers of Franzen Heating & Cooling?
Customers can visit Aurora Township Youth Center for community events or youth programs before or after scheduling HVAC services, enhancing their local experience.
Are there convenient automotive services near Franzen Heating & Cooling?
Yes, nearby automotive repair shops such as Automotive Plus and Leeds Auto Sales provide convenient vehicle services for customers while they visit Franzen Heating & Cooling.