Tag: Houston Ac Repair Services

Shifting Your HVAC System To Green Technology Pt2

Reasons Why You Should Switch To Green HVAC Technology

Custom Cooling And Heating In Multiple Zones

If you are looking for the ultimate in cooling and heating zones, you should look at a Variable Refrigerant Flow system. This is a green HVAC technology that uses small air handlers that are individually controlled but make up a full system. The VRF of the main system will detect the requirements for each zone and will control the amount of refrigerant that flows to each of the air handlers.

This type of system will be able to deliver green cooling and heating. In fact, this system could do both at the same time. Unlike other traditional systems, the compressor of these units will provide the right amount of cooling required for the conditions of smaller zones. This means that the system runs less frequently and at a lower capacity which is what makes it energy efficient.

The green HVAC technology which is used will also capture heat from the cooling process and redirect this to the areas in the property that require heat. The small indoor air handlers are also quieter than a traditional split system.

Readily Available Solar Power

Solar energy is probably the most well known green technology with rooftop-mounted systems and solar farms being prominent. Solar panels will contain photovoltaic materials that cover sunlight into electricity. This electricity can be used for lighting, heating, and cooling.

The installation of a solar energy system can be expensive, but there are tax rebates as well as other incentives which can be used to reduce the initial costs. There are also some less expensive systems which make use of liquid and air to absorb the energy of the sun and transfer it to the heating of a building.

Geothermal Is Not Just For Icelanders

Iceland is the pioneer of geothermal energy and this is no surprise when you consider their volcanoes and geysers. The country uses this type of energy in around 87% of buildings to ensure that they are heated. However, this is an energy source that is not only available for Icelanders and it is a viable option for people in the US as well.

Geothermal systems will take advantage of the constant temperature found a few feet below the surface of the Earth to provide heating and cooling. The system requires a geothermal heat pump and looping piping which is underground and contains either a refrigerant or water. In the cold months, the fluid in the pipes will get heat from the ground and transfer this into the air of the building. In the summer, the process will be reversed with the heat traveling out of the house and into the ground.

There is an added bonus to this system and that is the creation of hot water. It is important to note that these systems will use electricity, but they are still more energy efficient than other types of technology.

AC On Ice

A new green HVAC technology that you should know about is an ice-powered air conditioner. This will not only cool the air, it will also reduce the amount of energy you use.

The AC unit will freeze large amounts of water during the night. During the hottest [art of the next day, the ice will be used by the unit instead of a compressor to cool the refrigerant. This will reduce the electricity that is used by the cooling system. As the ice melts, the normal AC system will start to kick in while the water to reused and frozen overnight.

It is important to note that this AC unit will use electricity. However, the combination of the cooling and the cost saving is likely to make this green HVAC technology popular as it starts to become available to the general public.

Bringing Your Radiator Into The 21st Century

Heating systems which use hot water flowing through the pipes and providing heat are nothing new. However, a much better green technology will be the hydronic heating system.

This modern system will use a liquid, which could be antifreeze, water or another liquid, to run through plastic tubing. The tubing can run under the floors, through baseboards, radiators or another heating exchange. The heat will then be transferred via radiation, convection or conduction depending on the system design. The boiler used to heat the liquid can run on geothermal power or solar power instead of fossil fuels to make it greener.

AC Man is a professional HVAC repair company in Houston, TX. We offer both commercial and residential HVAC services. Give us a call today to speak with a professional HVAC repair technician, or check our services. Click here to proceed to the first issue of this article.

Shifting Your HVAC System To Green Technology Pt1

9 Reasons To Switch To Green HVAC Technology

Heating and cooling accounts for at least 56% of a typical home’s energy usage. This is according to research conducted by the U.S Department of Energy. These figures can, however, change depending on the household’s energy needs, with some commercial building registering up to 73% of energy usage. These figures should be a real cause for concern considering how much you have to pay for the same. Getting a company like King HVAC Scottsdale to switch you to a greener, more efficient, HVAC technology can, however, help keep the bills on the low, as well as reduce your carbon footprint. This applies to both commercial and residential property owners, which is why it is always a good idea to hire a HVAC Contractor to asses your system.

Outlined below are 9 good reasons why you need/should embrace the green HVAC technology.

1. Tax Savings

Under the 2018 federal law, switching to a newer green HVAC system can give you a tax break on the same. While this will depend on the system in question, you could save up to $5000 worth of tax break from installing these systems. This not helps bring down energy bills but also takes care of the cost of replacing the older HVAC system.

2. R22 In Air Conditioners Will Soon Be Illegal

R22 is the standard refrigerant used in most air conditioning and heat pump systems. This ozone-depleting refrigerant is however due to being phased out, come 2020 as the government tries to protect the environment. Banning R22 in the US also means new ACs will have to use the more ecologically-friendly R410A refrigerant. This also means servicing the older HVAC systems will become harder as importing R22 will be illegal after 2020.

Getting rid of that old R22 AC unit and replacing it with the newer green HVAC systems would therefore be a wise idea. In addition to the tax break benefits, the newer systems run efficiently and also use very little energy. If you’re looking or someone to install these new ‘green machines’, check out, https://www.anytimehvac.com/locations/alpharetta-hvac-company/ for more information.

3. Local Support for Green Systems

Almost everyone, including state and local governments, have stepped in, in promoting the use of green technology to help save the environment. A good example of this is the NYC Carbon challenge that encourages commercial tenants, business owners, private organizations, and nonprofits to work towards reducing their carbon footprint.

The Mayor’s office, under this program, provides the resources and support to participants in this challenge, which enables them to implement improvements in their workplaces. This includes choosing the best green alternatives for heating and ventilation, sustainability initiatives, and efficient on-site generation of energy. With such an initiative, the city might be able to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% by the year 2050.

4. Several Green Enhancements for Old HVAC Systems

If you aren’t ready to give up the sweet old HVAC system just yet, you can then take advantage of green enhancements that can make it better.

One of the best investments for the HVAC system is the thermostat. Investing in a smart thermostat makes it easier to control and monitor the system anywhere, anytime using an app from your phone, computer, or tablet. The smart thermostat makes it possible to preset temperatures, as well as control the same remotely. This comes in handy if you had forgotten to adjust the setting before leaving the office. This translates to more energy savings in the long run.

Zoning is another feature you can have installed and enabled on your HVAC system. This feature enables one to control heating and cooling cycles in various rooms (zones) separately. It works by keeping occupied spaces comfortable while shutting off cooling and heating in unused areas. This means you can have either the bedroom or the living room warm, which means no energy is wasted on unused areas and zones. This feature is designed to provide more comfort while lowering energy consumption and costs.

Another useful feature you can have incorporated in the HVAC system is the HVAC economizer. This feature reduces the time the AC system needs to run, hence reducing energy usage by up to 75%. An economizer would be a wise investment even for the old HVAC system. This however isn’t something you can do as a DIY. You’ll need a professional HVAC technician to set it up for optimal performance.

AC Man is a professional HVAC repair company in Houston, TX. We offer both commercial and residential HVAC services. Give us a call today to speak with a professional HVAC repair technician, or check our services. Click here to proceed to the next issue of this article.

Could Humidifiers Help Your Residential HVAC System?

A Guide To Portable Humidifiers For Your Residential HVAC System

The majority of homes require additional humidification, particularly during the winter months, to help keep a balanced humidity level in the air and avoid any dry air problems. One of the best methods of dealing with humidity issues is by using humidifiers; however, it may not be possible to install a whole-house humidifier. In these cases, a portable humidifier is the next best option as this unit adds moisture directly to the area where you need it most!

Is The Potable Humidifier The Best Option For Me?

While the whole-house humidifier is an ideal solution for most people, in certain circumstances the portable humidifier may be the more suitable solution. Portable humidifiers may be more suited to your needs if you have any of the following circumstances:

1. You Rent The Property

If you are renting your home, then an installation of a full-property humidifier may not be possible because of its permanent application. Moreover, permanent installation of the whole-house humidifier means you cannot take it with you when you leave.

2. The Property Does Not Have A Duct System

If the property you live in does not present with a duct system, then you are not able to install a humidifier. In this case, the portable humidifier would be the best option as it adds moisture to the area where a duct system is not available for use.

3. You Require Moisture In Areas Temporarily

One of the greatest benefits of using a portable humidifier is that they can be placed in specific areas around the house, as and when they are required. It is ideal for adding humidity to problem areas, or when someone is ill and requires moisturized air as a treatment.

What Is The Portable Humidifier?

The portable humidifier operates by adding moisture into the atmosphere within a specific area or room. While the whole-house humidifier is attached to the property’s heating system and utilizes the property’s ductwork to distribute moisture, the portable humidifier operates independently of the house’s HVAC system. This means it can be moved about as required to distribute moisture directly to the specific areas when necessary. How portable humidifiers operate is dependent on the type of humidifier you are using, as is discussed below.

What Are The Different Types Of Portable Humidifiers?

There are several types of portable humidifiers available to release moisture into a specific area when required. The primary types include the following:

1. The Cool Mist Humidifier

The cool mist humidifier produces a cool vapor that spreads moisture through the air.

2. The Warm Mist Humidifier

The warm mist humidifier produces a warm vapor from heated water, which is then cooled and released into the allocated area.

3. The Ultrasonic Humidifier

The ultrasonic humidifier is a portable humidifier model utilizing a metallic diaphragm. The high-frequency vibrations form moisture droplets that are sent into the air.

4. The Evaporative Humidifier

An evaporative humidifier is a portable option using a damp wick to create moisture, and then a fan to dispense it into the air.

What About Portable Humidifier Output?

The output of a portable humidifier refers to the amount of moisture it creates, and this is measured using gallons per day. The average portable humidifier outputs approximately one to nine gallons per day; however, the amount is influenced by the model and type of humidifier.

To determine the most suitable output for a portable humidifier in your house, it is recommended that you measure the living area the unit will service. Select a humidifier unit with a suitable output according to the square footage of the area in which it will be used. If the house is a well ventilated one, you will not require high levels of humidity as compared to poorly ventilated homes – keep this in mind when choosing your new portable humidifier.

How Do I Care For My Portable Humidifier?

Unlike the whole-house humidifier, the portable humidifier requires regular refilling and maintenance to continue effective operation. A whole-house model has a dedicated water supply line; however, the portable option uses a water reserve exclusively that needs to be refilled regularly so the unit can continue to produce moisture.

The amount of times you need to refill the water reserve varies according to several factors including the size of the humidifier’s tank, the humidifier brand, how long the humidifier is running, and the level of air dryness. A unit with larger output can run for days without a need for a refill, but smaller units may need to be refilled several times per day. Always review the owner’s manual regarding the recommended refill frequency, and monitor the humidifier to determine when it should be refilled based on your use.

AC Man is a professional HVAC repair company in Houston, TX. We offer both commercial and residential HVAC services. Give us a call today to speak with a professional HVAC repair technician, or check our services.

Houston HVAC Expert Explains Ductless HVAC

Dispelling Myths Of Ductless HVAC Technology

Ductless mini splits are growing in popularity across the nation as both business and homeowners choose to use ductless HVAC systems for indoor comfort solutions. However, there is still misinformation regarding the technology used for this solution. The latest trend in the HVAC industry involves experts working together to dispel the myths; thereby, helping consumers learn more about the ductless technology and how to can be applied in both businesses and homes.

The Most Well-Known Myths About Ductless HVAC Units

  • MYTH: Ductless units can be installed in any location within a building.
  • TRUTH: While no ductwork is necessary for the air circulation in a unit, the sizing and placement are as significant when installing ductless indoor HVAC systems. Placement influences efficiency and the effectiveness of conditioned air delivery. By installing units anywhere you please, you will increase the utility expenses and contribute to poor indoor temperature regulation.
  • MYTH: The mini-split HVAC unit needs to remain ductless.
  • TRUTH: It is not true that all ductless units must remain duct-free.
    Recently, the ducted mini-split system has gained popularity in the HVAC industry. This type of system utilizes existing ducts and infrastructure in the building for the efficient delivery of cooling and heating; as well as, improving effectiveness via inverter technology and zoning.
  • MYTH: Ductless mini-split units are utilized for supplemental cooling and heating exclusively.
  • TRUTH: While the ductless mini-split system is the ideal alternative for affordable additional cooling and heating to certain areas in the home, they are capable of handling the full heating and cooling demands of a property when installed correctly.
  • MYTH: Ductless systems require more maintenance than the central HVAC systems.
  • TRUTH: The myth of ductless systems requiring more maintenance has been reported due to the advanced technology utilized by the ductless mini-split systems. Consumers are often mistaken in their belief that a system with advanced technology will require more service or maintenance. In reality, the ductless systems are effective in their design; therefore, the users are able to perform regular maintenance without a need for professional assistance. Contractors are required to perform maintenance when necessary by the central system. Filters can also be removed for simple cleaning purposes.
  • MYTH: The ductless mini-splits cannot be retrofit and are installed in new constructions exclusively.
  • TRUTH: Ductless systems are suited for both retrofit and new construction applications. While this technology is typically utilized in new constructions according to their efficient technology and space-saving features, the same qualities make the ductless option an ideal choice for retrofit installation.

Final Words

Comfort Specialists is a professional service with trained technicians here to assist you in attaining full comfort at your home with HVAC system solutions. This ranges from maintenance and installation to design and equipment. The AC Man of Houston can increase the effectiveness of your property while providing you with quick and precise services. Our staff’s skills, combined with the commitment to customer service, make us one of the elite HVAC companies in the Houston area and in the HVAC industry.

 

AC Man is a professional HVAC repair company in Houston, TX. We offer both commercial and residential HVAC services. Give us a call today to speak with a professional HVAC repair technician, or check our services.

Five Tips On How To Hire The Best HVAC Contractor

How To Locate And Hire A Reputable And Reliable HVAC Contractor

Your HVAC system is among the most expensive systems in your house and if you hire a reputable company to do the proper installation it will help to contribute towards making sure that it runs accurately and efficiently. Although you might be able to change the filters and check on the thermostat on a regular basis, there are certain situations such as routine maintenance that might convince you that you need to hire an HVAC contractor. We are experts at cooling and heating. If you are searching for an A/C installation in the Houston TX area, don’t hesitate to give us a call. The following are some tips to help guide you in choosing the best HVAC contractor for your needs.

Experience and Licensing

When searching for AC installation near Houston, TX, you should always take experience and licensing into consideration. Like we stated previously, the HVAC system is quite expensive. That is why it is essential that you make sure that the staff has had adequate training. Before hiring a company ask how long it has been working within the industry. Longevity will help to ensure that the contractor does a good job or you. Check to make sure that have a valid license from the Texas HVAC Contractor Licensing Board. This board issue licenses only to contractors with at least five years of experience within the field. Find out if their technicians have North American Technician Excellent (NATE) also. That will help to ensure that the technicians have received adequate training for handling the installation that you need to have done. You should also ask whether the tradesman has insurance. This will give you peace of mind in the event of something going wrong during installation. If you are a tradesman, websites such as tradesmansaver.co.uk cover for subcontractors insurance and more.

Ask For Referrals and References

Ask your friends and neighbors about the company’s reputation when it comes to AC installation. For example, if you know someone who has just had their AC done by LBA Services, you might want to contact them. You also should directly ask the company for referrals and then call them. Some important things that you will want to ask the references include; whether or not a clean installation was performed if the system was tested after it was installed to ensure it was installed properly, etc. You can also check online for any customer complaints and reviews. Check their Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating as well.

House Evaluation

A good contractor will provide a thorough evaluation of your home as well as advice on what the best cooling and heating solution is for you. Make sure they performed detailed duct inspections and load calculations for any leaks. The home’s square footage and R-value should be determined among other things by the contractor, and they should provide you with a written estimate for your budget.

Branding

A majority of homeowners assume the popular business or brand is the best company for the job. However, that isn’t always the case. Instead, you should get more information on the company that you are thinking about hiring first before you hire them.

Fair Pricing and Versatility

A good contractor will be knowledgeable on a broad range of models and makes and should feel comfortable working with them all. Fair pricing should be offered as well. But keep in mind that price needs to consider along with a number of other factors. Before you settle on one, get estimates from several different contractors. That is why the perfect air conditioning installation company in New Caney, TX should be charging you affordable fees.

Have you been wondering how to find an HVAC installation expert near New Caney TX or Houston TX? The five tips above can help guide you to finding a reputable and reliable HVAC contractor. Out staff are heating and cooling experts. If you are thinking about buying a new HVAC system or need to have an HVAC repair or installation done, call us today so that we can guarantee quality services to you.

HVAC Repair Technician Tell-All – Heaters Not Heating?

Furnace Blowing Cold Air, Do I Need An HVAC Repair Technician? – How To Troubleshoot The Problem.

Are you turning on your furnace, but it is blowing cold air? Are you wondering what is wrong? Well, the truth is that it could be multiple issues, of which some of them you can solve. Before you go right ahead to call a professional HVAC repair Technician, below are 4 troubleshooting techniques that will help.

1. The Thermostat’s FAN Setting

Is your furnace blowing cold air sometimes and hot the other? Well, the problem could be the thermostat’s fan setting, which may be at the ON position. It is important to note that the blower is controlled by the Fan setting control. It is the system that helps circulate air through your home. As such, if it has been set to ON, the blower will run all the time (24/7), regardless of whether the furnace is heating or not. This may be the reason you are getting cold air.

The solution? The only solution to this problem is to ensure the fan setting has been set to AUTO and not ON. The AUTO setting will ensure the fan will run only when the furnace heats the air.

2. The Furnace’s Air Filter

If your furnace is blowing cold air, the problem could be its air filter (meaning it is too dirty). When the air filter becomes too dirty, it limits the flow of air to the furnace’s heat exchanger, which makes it overheat. When this happens, a high limit switch will be tripped, which shuts off the furnace banners to prevent cracking.

The Solution? The solution is to first turn off the furnace at the thermostat and inspect the filter. If it is too dirty, changing it is the only way. You may also need the services of a professional HVAC repair technician to help you reset the furnace. Filters are generally located next to the blower in many models.

3. Inspect The Pilot Light

If you have an older furnace model with a standing pilot light, then you should inspect it. if the pilot light is not lit, then it means that the furnace’s burners will light, which means no heat.

The Solution? You should try relighting the pilot light. Below are steps to follow.

  • Switch Off The Furnace – This includes switching the thermostat from HEAT to OFF.
  • Locate The Furnace’s Pilot Light Assembly and Reset Switch – The switch and assembly are generally located near the bottom of the furnace. If you cannot locate them, then refer to your furnace’s manual. You must open the cover to access the reset switch. You should see a knob with 3 settings; ‘ON’, ’OFF’, and ’Pilot’.
  • Turn The Knob ‘OFF’ and Wait for at least 3 minutes – Doing this will shut the gas flowing through the pilot.
  • Turn The Knob To ‘Pilot’ and Press the Knob Down – By doing this action, you will be restarting the flow of gas to the pilot.
  • While Still Pressing The Knob, Hold a lighter to the pilot opening Until The Flame Lights – The flame should have a steady blue cone and hit the middle of the thermocouple (this is a small copper bar)
  • Turn The Knob To The ‘ON’ Position – Now the furnace should ignite.
  • Turn ‘On’ The Furnace At The Thermostat
  • Turn the thermostat back to ‘HEAT’, and ensure the temperature is set 5 degrees below the room temperature. After doing this, you should be getting hot air.

What To Do If The Pilot Light Does Not Light Or Stay Lit

Well, this is the point you call a professional HVAC repair technician. The problem may be a malfunctioning thermocouple or other issues that make the pilot light not to burn properly.

4. Inspect The Condensate Line

If you have a high-efficiency furnace and you see water pooling around the furnace, then most likely the condensate line is blocked. The line is usually a PVC pipe. This problem will make the furnace to shut down.

How? You may ask.

High-efficiency furnaces create water when running, which is then drained to the common house’s draining line. However, if the condensate is blocked, water begins to back up into the furnace. At this point, the overflow will trip a kill switch, which will turn off the furnace to prevent water damage.

Common causes for blockages include:

  • Mold
  • Dirt
  • Dust
  • Ice
  • Broken condensate pump (in this case, you will need the services of a professional HVAC repair technician)

The Solution? Apart from broken condensate pump, the rest can be solved by simply unclogging the line. You can achieve this by following this tutorial on Energy Vanguard.

 

AC Man is a professional HVAC repair company in Houston, TX. We offer both commercial and residential HVAC services. Give us a call today to speak with a professional HVAC repair technician, or check our services.

Should You Perform HVAC Maintenance In Houston?

Air Conditioning Seasonal Houston HVAC Maintenance – Do You Really Need It?

Air conditioners are one of the most important systems you cannot do without, especially during summer months. Even though you love fresh cool air, how long an air conditioner works generally depends on the way you care for it. Seasonal HVAC maintenance has always been a debate for many homeowners and the most common point of reference is weather (how air conditioners are not used during winter months). Nevertheless, just like every system in the world, air conditioners need care as well. Otherwise, they tend to rust as well as lose its efficiency.

Reasons Why Regular HVAC Maintenance Is Needed?

Regular maintenance of air conditioner systems is needed and this is a fact. It does not matter the seasons you use your system; a lot of the problems arise when it is not used. With seasonal HVAC maintenance, you are not only prolonging your AC’s life, and efficiency; but helps in protecting the system from different seasonal changes. Furthermore, because of preventive maintenance, you will not experience unnecessary system interruptions or breakdowns. Because maintenance helps improve your system’s efficiency, you will surely have improved the effects of cooling as well as save money on monthly utility bills. Remember, it does not matter how new or old your system is, you will improve performance, efficiency, and money of electric bill through seasonal HVAC maintenance. Therefore, it is right to say that seasonal HVAC maintenance has proved to be the most efficient, economical, and trouble-free method to make an AC work perfectly.

Steps To Perform Simple Seasonal HVAC Maintenance

Below are some steps to perform simple seasonal HVAC maintenance. These steps will not only help your system run efficiently but improve its lifespan.

Step One: Disconnect The Power Source To The HVAC

Remember, safety comes first no matter what you are doing. As such, when it comes to maintaining your air conditioner, it is wise to disconnect its power source. This should be your first method. This way, you will protect yourself against electric shocks.

Step Two: Clean Or Replace The Air Filter

Experts recommend replacing the air filter at least every three months. Because you are not limited, you can replace them as much as you want, even after a month. However, even though replacing is an option, cleaning is another option. Cleaning will help prevent dirt from settling in the filter itself, which will reduce its efficiency. Experts recommend cleaning the filter at least once a month and then replace them after three months. Cleaning does also help limit wear and tear of the system.

Step Three: Cleaning The Condenser

There are many benefits to cleaning the condenser, and it is a very important thing as well. With time, the condenser may be blocked with dirt and debris, which generally causes a lot of problems. First, the AC system will be unable to cool a room efficiently. Secondly, dirt and debris could cause corrosion, due to humidity buildup. As such, cleaning will take you a long way. However, there are certain maintenance processes that need the services of a professional. Therefore, if you do not know how to perform the following simple maintenance tips or generally need overall seasonal HVAC maintenance, you should call a professional.

We are a professional HVAC maintenance company in Houston, TX. We offer both commercial and residential HVAC services. Give us a call today to speak with a professional, or check our services.

Our teams of experts have the experience to repair any AC model. We are not only reliable but affordable as well. We also offer seasonal cleaning services, which means you do not have to worry about your system.

Was My Houston A/C Repair Company Too Good? – Is Your A/C Giving You A Cold?

Air Conditioning And The Common Cold: Is There A Link?

The human body has an amazing variety of responses to cold temperatures. But None Are The A/C Repair Company’s Fault!

The idea that cold weather is tied to the common cold is a stubborn one. Despite repeated scientific inquiries, many people still hold this mistaken assumption. The greater number of colds in winter has nothing to do with the weather – at least, not directly. Colds spread more quickly in the colder months because people spend more time indoors, coming into closer contact with other people. This allows germs to reproduce and spread more easily.

Natural cold weather doesn’t cause colds. What about rooms chilled by air conditioning? To some people’s minds, there’s a real connection between entering air conditioned spaces and contracting a cold. While I believe it’s true that exposure to cold air can make it easier to get sick, I think it’s also important to bear in mind that colds can only be caught after exposure to the cold virus. So if you’ve got a new HVAC system recently, don’t go blaming your A/c repair company for your next case of the sniffles!

Let’s take a closer look at this.

When the weather outside is warm, moving repeatedly from the sunny outdoors to the air-conditioned indoors can cause some interesting bodily reactions. Remember at this point that the warm-blooded human body takes its own steps to try and keep us at our proper 98.6-degree temperature. When you move from a warm space to a cold one, the temperature change is registered by your skin and your brain is alerted. It sends back an order for an appropriate reaction. In this case, it constricts the blood vessels in the skin to keep us warm. If you look carefully, you can actually see this happen. Many people become noticeably pale when they enter a much colder air-conditioned space. In extreme cases, people may shiver – an involuntary response designed to generate heat.

It’s not just blood vessels in the skin that constrict. The same thing happens in our noses and throats. This slows down the flow of white blood cells that fight infection, and that may make us more susceptible to contracting a virus. Remember, the virus already has to be there! If there is a virus at large, we may become more susceptible by repeatedly entering air-conditioned spaces.

Of course, this effect doesn’t happen when we make the opposite temperature change. Moving into a warmer space like the outdoors in summer reverses the process. Blood vessels dilate and increase the flow of white blood cells. This boosts our immune response and makes us less likely to contract an infection.

Air conditioning can have some real health benefits. It can relieve respiratory conditions like asthma. Your air conditioner needs to be properly cared for in order to maintain the quality of the air it moves, though. Excess moisture can promote the growth and spread of fungi, bacteria, and other unwanted contaminants. An old or poorly-maintained air conditioner may actually blast those contaminants right into your body.

How do you reduce the risk of getting sick? Always drink lots of fluids. (This keeps your throat and nose moist.) Wash your hands regularly – especially at work – to reduce virus transfer. When possible, open up a window to get fresh air into your system.

At A/C Man we are dedicated to bringing you the best HVAC repair and installation available. Don’t wait around until your old system goes out or you find yourself in need of heat this winter only to smell the mold and dust when you kick the temperature up, Call or Contact us today to get ahead of the game!

Should I Cover My Air Conditioner?

Do Air Conditioners Need To Be Covered During The Winter?

Your residential HVAC system requires maintenance periodically throughout the year. When fall turns into winter, it is then the ideal time to get your Houston AC ready for the weather that lies ahead. Later in the year, as the hot days of summer transition into the cooler days of fall, it is time to shift your focus to your furnace or heating system. One question that many people ask AC Man Of Houston is whether their air conditioner needs to be covered when it is not in use during the winter season or to protect it from bad weather.

Covers Provide Protection Against Outside Elements

A lot of times, people mistakenly believe that they need to cover their air conditioner during the winter months. In fact, it is far more important to cover the outdoor Houston AC during the autumn season. This is the time of year when leaves, seeds, and other small bits of debris are falling from the trees. If these items become caught in your Houston AC unit, they can trap moisture, which can eventually cause the surface to corrode. Accumulated piles of leaves may also interfere with your air conditioning unit’s ability to drain. At the same time, you need to use caution when covering your Houston AC. Avoid covering the entire Houston AC unit. Instead, purchase a cover that extends approximately half a foot down each side of the unit. Make sure that at least a portion of the unit is exposed to the air to keep moisture from becoming trapped underneath the cover. Any moisture or condensation that can’t escape could lead to rusting or corrosion.

Protect Your Houston AC From Bad Weather

One common misconception that people have is that air conditioners need to be carefully protected from the weather. This probably stems from the fact that many summertime accessories have to be stored away during the winter. For instance, lawn chairs, patio tables, and other types of outdoor furniture are usually covered or kept indoors during the winter to keep them from getting damaged. Most Houston AC systems are tough enough, however, that they don’t need to be covered. Below are some of the primary reasons why people cover their units along with additional information on whether or not a cover is actually necessary.

1. Dirt In The AC

As your air conditioner operates, it draws in air from the surrounding area. Sometimes, it also draws in the dirt along with that air. After the unit is turned off, however, dirt is extremely unlikely to get inside, meaning that you shouldn’t need to cover it when it is not in use.

2. Ice Or Snow In Your AC

The companies that manufacture air conditioners design them to be strong enough to withstand extreme conditions during the winter months. Typically, a cover is not required to protect your unit from the weather.

3. AC Water Damage

Any type of moisture can cause damage to your air conditioner over time. Unfortunately, moisture is something that is impossible to prevent. This is especially true if you live in a humid environment. Even if your unit is covered, moisture can still get in. Covering your unit can make the situation even worse, however, since a cover can keep moisture trapped inside your Houston AC, preventing it from escaping. This can lead to problems with mold, rust, and corrosion. To avoid this problem, most experts recommend not using a cover.

4. Small Creatures

Critters like rodents tend to be drawn to places that are covered and protected when the weather changes. In this case, leaving your unit uncovered may help discourage these animals from taking up residence inside your Houston AC.

To Cover Or Not To Cover?

If you own an air conditioner, it is important to know when it should be covered and when it should be left uncovered. As a general rule of thumb, the only time that you should cover your unit is during the autumn when leaves are falling off of the trees. Make sure to choose a cover that fits the unit correctly. During the rest of the year, you should be able to leave your unit uncovered without worrying about it sustaining any damage.

For more information on Houston AC systems, contact us today by giving us a call at (713) 460-2653. If you would like to read more related content be sure to check out our blog!

#1 Air Conditioner Repair Houston Expert: How Often Should An A/C Be Replaced? 

A Guide On How Often Your AC Needs To Get Replaced By A Top Air Conditioner Repair Houston Professional

One of the hardest decisions for any homeowner to make is when it’s time to get a new air conditioner or repair it. While a new air conditioner can be rather expensive, in many cases it is the best decision. However, knowing when it is time to get a new air conditioner can be difficult to understand. Below are six signs that are going to help you make the right decision. We understand that deciding whether you should replace or repair an air conditioner is difficult. There are many times when an old AC still has many years of life in it and does not need to be replaced, that will surely reduce ac costs along with smart ac controllers that can better monitor old and new ac systems to understand how much you’re using. This guide was written to help you save money and make the best decision possible. So, let’s get right down to the nitty-gritty and find out whether you need to repair or replace your air conditioner.

Over A Decade Old Air Conditioner

In many cases, the typical lifespan of a well-maintained air conditioner is about 15 years. However, if your air conditioner is 10 years old and needs extensive repairs, is more than likely best to replace it. This is especially true when you look at all the advances that have been made in air conditioning technology within the last few years. If your AC is this old then it is time to reach out to your #1 source for air conditioning maintenance and repair services in Houston.

An AC That Is Inefficient

If the air conditioner you are using right now has a low SEER rating, it is costing you more to run it than it is worth. New air conditioners on the market today must have a rating of at least a 13. If the air conditioner in your home or business has a SEER rating that is under 13, by replacing with a new air conditioner you are going to cut your energy costs dramatically.

Extensive A/C Repairs

If the unit that is being worked on has an extensive repair last, it is best to weigh the costs of replacing it when looking for an ac repair contractor. If the amount to repair an older unit would cover the vast majority of a new unit, it is typically going to make more sense financially to invest in a newer unit.

AC Is Constantly Breaking Down

Do you have an air conditioner that seems to break down every other week or month? Do you know the air conditioner repairman by the first name? This probably means your air conditioner is breaking down more often than it should. These types of repair bills are going to add up really quick, and it makes no sense to keep a unit in this condition. We recommend remain in friends with your air conditioner repairman, but letting the unit go.

A/C R 22 Freon

Freon is one of those chemicals that has been slowly phased out by the federal government in an effort to conserve energy across the nation. Due to this phaseout, the cost of Freon has risen exponentially over the years. If you are using an air conditioner that runs on Freon, it is going to have to be replaced eventually. If your air-conditioner is giving you major troubles and it uses Freon, is simply just a good idea to purchase a new unit.

Air Conditioner Is Not Cooling Your Home

Does it feel that your home is almost as warm as it is outside? This is a problem with an air conditioner system that is not running as efficiently as it should. It also may be an incorrect size were simply too old to function as it should. If your air conditioner is not able to keep your home cool, it is time to replace it with the unit that can. Indoor air quality is very important.

Houston Air Conditioner Repair

If you have any questions about whether you should replace or repair your air conditioner system, called the best air conditioner repair Houston has to offer today! AC Man of Houston offers air conditioner financing. There is no sense to continue to use air conditioner split systems that are not efficient and are not able to cool your house down correctly. In many cases, a new unit is going to save you more money in the long run than constantly repairing an old unit. However, there are those times when an older unit still has several years of life left in it. This is why it is essential to contact AC Man Of Houston today and let us observe your unit and give you the best advice we possibly can. Give us a call.