Month: January 2020

Knowing The Parts Of A Houston HVAC System & Their Natural Purpose

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Important Parts Of An HVAC System In Houston

It is important to have an understanding of the parts of an HVAC system so that you can keep it well maintained, and also because if you know how it works it is easier to fix problems with it. With proper maintenance, an HVAC system will run efficiently for longer, keeping your Houston property comfortable all year round. Some of the most important components of an HVAC system are explored here – they are the blower motor, heat exchanger, condenser, evaporator, combustion chamber, and thermostat.

The Heat Exchanger

The heat exchanger is part of the HVAC housing that contains the furnace. It absorbs warmth and helps to heat up cool air if the thermostat activates the furnace, so the heat from combustion starts to rise. Furnaces will always have a heat exchanger, even if they are electric furnaces. The heat exchanger is usually stainless steel mixed with temperature-tolerant alloys that will not crack or become damaged with repeated heating and cooling. They have a duct to allow cool air to enter the exchanger, speeding the rate at which they work.

If your heat exchanger breaks, then this could lead to some serious issues, including a carbon monoxide leak. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, highly dangerous gas and prolonged exposure to it can be fatal. For this reason, it is vital that people get carbon monoxide detectors fitted in their living areas if they use gas or wood furnaces. Heating and air conditioning systems should be inspected annually.

The Blower Motor

Once the air in the heat exchanger reaches a specific temperature, the blower motor activates a fan that will force the warm air into the ducts and through the ducts into the rooms that the air conditioning supplies. Combustion will end before the blower motor turns off, allowing the air in the heat exchanger to reach the same temperature as the rooms in your home. The motor will wait for the next heating cycle to begin before it reactivates.

Variable-speed blower motors can run at different speeds to control the flow of air around the house. They can monitor your HVAC system and compensate for a lot of potential issues. They are also a nice choice because they spin up slowly, which means they are quieter, and they work well for reducing humidity as well as for transporting air. Often, a smaller property will reach the desired temperature before the motor reaches full speed, so a variable speed motor can be more energy-efficient.

The Combustion Chamber

For proper, safe combustion, sufficient oxygen must be present. The furnace will add air to fuel in the burner or combustion chamber. The heating cycle will start when the air and gas mixture are present in the combustion chamber, and a glow stick or pilot light will ignite the mixture, starting a controlled fire that will continue to burn as more gas and air is sent into the chamber.

Glow sticks serve as an ignition system. The pilot light is a small tube that releases gas for fuel for the flame. Glow sticks can light automatically, but if the pilot light goes out then this will need to be relit manually. Most modern furnaces do not use a pilot light, since relying on a pilot light means that more gas is burned, and also that there is an increased risk of carbon monoxide being released from the unit.

The Condenser Coil/Compressor Unit

Condenser coils are a part of the heat pump or HVAC system that is installed outside of the property in most cases. The condenser coil cools the property by releasing hot air to the outside. The compressor or condenser is so-called because it compresses and condenses refrigerant from a gas into a liquid, and as the refrigerant is condensed it becomes colder. A fan blows air over the compressor, and this helps to cool the refrigerant and disperse the heat more quickly. The HVAC system will then send the refrigerant, in liquid form, through a copper or aluminum tube to the evaporator coil.

To prevent issues with the HVAC system it is important to keep the condenser clean. If grass clippings, dirt or debris are allowed to collect on it then it may cause the condenser to malfunction. It should be maintained annually, too. Turn off the unit and rinse off the condenser with a garden hose. Another good idea would be to use an awning to provide shade for the unit, leaving a few feet of space on each side so that airflow is not impeded.

The Evaporator Coil

Inside the air handler, there is an evaporator coil. This is a part of the unit that brings refrigerant to a series of nozzles or expansion valves. These valves spray liquid refrigerant, allowing it to evaporate into a gas more quickly. As the liquid evaporates, it absorbs heat, reducing the temperature of the air around the pipes. The HVAC system’s fan will take in warm air from your home, pump it through return ducts and pass it over the evaporator coil so that the air is cooled.

The cool air is then distributed through the ductwork and into the rooms of your home. After that, the system will send the refrigerant back to the condenser coil, so that it can start the cooling cycle once more. When warm air touches the evaporator coil it will condense. This helps to keep the humidity in the house low and makes the home feel cooler, which can help to reduce energy expenditure in the summer.

Heat pumps are similar to air conditioners and work in much the same way. The heat transfer process can be reversed during the winter, bringing heat from outdoor air into the house and pumping out the cold air in the home. Using the heater can dry out the air and irritate your skin, nose, and eyes. You can make use of a humidifier to make the property more comfortable and to reduce the dryness.

The Thermostat

Thermostats are temperature sensors that can be used to determine when the air conditioner or heater should be turned off or on. They can give users fine control over the temperature in the property. Thermostats can be connected to the system via wires and can be used either in one central location or one per room. They are best placed near the center of the house, away from drafts or areas that get particularly stuffy. Some systems give you ‘zone’ control so that you can dictate which areas should be warmed or cooled, reducing the overall cost of running the system.

Some models also allow you to set a schedule, so that the temperature will be kept at one level during the day and another in the evenings, or to have different temperatures on different days of the week, depending on when people are likely to be at home.

Call or contact us today for more information. Visit our blog for more related articles.

Knowing How To File A Claim For The Damages Of Your Houston AC Unit

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Homeowners Insurance Policy: Do They Cover The Damages Of Your AC Unit In Houston?

AC Unit in HoustonThe majority of homeowners’ insurance policies will only cover the damages that your AC unit has sustained due to a “covered peril” which will be listed in the policy. Depending on what type of air-conditioning unit you have, it may be included in a structural part of your home or your personal property, which means you can only file claims for damages from a specific cause that is included in the policy.

What Are Covered To Your AC Unit Homeowners Insurance?

Home insurance will cover heat pumps and AC units in the same way that it covers other parts of your house. Damages that are caused by vandalism, lightning strikes, a fallen tree, fires, and in some cases flooding will all be covered by a standard homeowners’ policy. However, accidental damages and general wear-and-tear is not covered. This means if your AC unit breaks down and it is 10 years old, you cannot claim for a replacement or repair. This is common across the majority of the homeowners’ insurance providers.

  •  Lighting & Fire Damage

If a fire has destroyed your AC unit, then your homeowner’s insurance policy should cover a replacement or repair. If your AC unit has been struck by lighting which has damaged or destroyed the electrical components, your insurance policy should also reimburse you to replace the unit.

  •  Vandalism & Falling Trees

If your AC system suffers damages from falling branches or a tree, you should be protected as these policies usually cover the damages caused by falling trees. If your heat pump or AC unit is subjected to vandalism, your policy should pay out since this type of insurance covers damages and destruction caused by vandalism. If this does happen to you, it is important that you also file a report with the police which will document the damages and the crime.

If you are unsure when it comes to the specifics of what your coverage entails, contact the company directly or your agent for more details, as some policies can differ.

What Are NOT Covered To Your AC Unit Homeowners Insurance?

The insurance policies for homeowners will not cover AC malfunctions that were a direct result of wear and tear, an accident, or when you failed to maintain the unit. An AC unit that stops working that has already been used for 10 years or more, or the unit is dented from a baseball that came through the window, will unfortunately not be covered by your insurance policy. You will have the responsibility of either replacing or repairing your unit.

It is also important to look more into water damages. While the AC unit, in general, is not that susceptible when it comes to water damages, these systems produce water while in operation. If this water is leaking inside your home and it results in flooding, your policy will not provide coverage as this is regarded as one of the maintenance issues. You must regularly check that the AC unit is draining correctly.

The homeowners’ insurance providers typically treat window AC and central units differently. The central AC units are generally treated as a part of the home’s structure, and the window units are usually covered under “personal property” as opposed to a structure in your home. This also usually means that the type of damages that are covered for the AC window units are narrower.

The standard homeowners’ insurance policy covers central AC units under what is known as “open perils”. This usually means that the damages will be covered provided they were not caused by flood damage or war when specifically excluded. The AC window unit, on the other hand, is covered under the “named perils”, which will be described specifically within the terms stated in the policy. There are usually several situations where central AC units are covered, while the window units are not. This is why it is important to read over the specifics of any policy to make sure.

Will The Homeowners Reimburse The Costs Of Repair?

To help you to defray the repair costs associated with your AC or any other appliance in your home, it would be a good idea to take out a home warranty. This type of coverage is also known as Home Repair Insurance, will reimburse you for the costs required to repair appliances and systems in your home, which includes your AC at set fees. Be sure that you fully understand the terms in the policy before you take one out.

How Do You File An Insurance Claim To Repair Your AC System?

If your air-conditioning unit has sustained damages caused by one of the covered events, you need to find out if you decide to file a claim whether it might end up costing you more. It is important to first find out what it will cost you to repair your unit, and then compare this to the deductible linked to your homeowner’s insurance. If the costs to replace or repair the unit is slightly higher or less than the deductible, it would be a better idea to pay for this out of your own pocket. If you file a claim it can increase the premiums that you are currently paying for the policy.

If you have made the decision that filing an insurance claim is a better option, make sure you have taken pictures of any visible damages and record the serial number and model. If your AC unit was vandalized, when filing your police report make sure that you ask for a copy. The next step would be to contact your insurance provider to start the claim process. After they have asked you how the AC unit sustained damages, they will inform you whether your policy covers this type of damage. From here an adjuster will come out and inspect the AC unit and provide you with an estimate on what the company is prepared to pay to repair or replace the unit. It is important that you are present when the adjuster arrives to ensure nothing has been missed or overlooked during the inspection.

Your insurance adjuster then prepares a quote for the estimated costs for either a replacement or repair. When your policy includes coverage for replacement costs, you will then be reimbursed for the same amount that you purchased the unit, which will include inflation. If the policy covers a cash value, you will then be paid out the amount that the AC unit costs when it was damaged. This will mean that you are paid out a lower amount because the value of the unit has already depreciated. When insurance providers approve a claim, they will typically pay out half the replacement or repair cost first. They will pay you the other half once the installation or repair work is complete.

Please feel free to give us a call or contact us today! We also invite you to visit our blog for more related articles.

How To Find A Reliable Houston HVAC Contractor?

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Tips To Hiring An Expert HVAC Contractor in Houston

HVAC contractorAs the population continues to grow, the demand for qualified HVAC specialists is on the rise. Every year, companies receive an increasing number of calls for service visits. A large percentage of the value of your home is made up of your HVAC system, which includes any heating, air-conditioning, and ventilation equipment that you own. Working with a qualified HVAC technician is essential anytime you are having your system serviced or repaired. Keeping your HVAC system in great shape is the best way to protect your investment.

Finding a reliable, experienced HVAC service provider isn’t always easy. When deciding which company or technician to hire, look for all of these characteristics:

1. Choose The One Who Is Knowledgeable & Experienced

The two most important qualities to look for in an HVAC technician are knowledge and experience. It is worth paying a little bit more to hire someone who has a lot of previous experience. When contacting companies to learn more about them, ask them how long they have been in business and how many years they have been working professionally in the field. Also, ask whether their technicians receive ongoing training to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the industry.

2. Look For A Reputable Company

Always research the background of any HVAC technician before hiring them. Find out how long they have been operating their business. A company that has been around for years is most likely a better choice than one that is just getting up and running. Check with organizations like the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any customer complaints. Reading reviews online is also beneficial. Talking to the technician directly can give you a better sense of how knowledgeable they are. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

3. Verify That The Contractor Is Licensed & Certified

Before working in the HVAC industry, technicians are required to undergo intense training. After they complete their training, they then can become licensed and certified. Never hire a contractor who doesn’t have the correct license. Otherwise, there is no way to tell whether or not they know how to do the repairs or installation properly. There is no point in wasting money on poor quality service. Working with an unqualified technician can also pose a major safety issue when it comes to your home’s HVAC equipment. To avoid any problems, always verify that the contractor is licensed and certified before hiring them.

4. Choose An Affordable Company That Provides Free Quotes

The only way for an HVAC contractor to give you an accurate estimate is to visit your home in person. After inspecting your property, they can determine exactly what size and type of equipment you require. Be wary of companies that offer to give you an estimate over the phone without seeing your house for themselves.

In terms of pricing, avoid the temptation to go with the company that offers the cheapest rate since their service may not be up to par. Always get several quotes before deciding which company to use.

5. Choose A Reliable Company That You Can Trust

Reliability is another important characteristic of any HVAC provider. The company you hire should always show up on time. They should also honor the price that they quoted you without adding any extra fees to your bill.

If you live in or around Houston and need help with your HVAC system, reach out to AC Man Houston. You can also check our blog for more informative content.

We meet all of these qualifications and we are available to assist you with any of your HVAC needs. Call us today to learn more.

Knowing How To Maintain Your AC Capacitor In Houston

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Thoughtful Ideas To Maintaining Your Houston AC Capacitor

Capacitors are among the most crucial components to the majority of electro-mechanical machines, and your air conditioner certainly qualifies as one. Capacitors are utilized to store energy inside of an electrostatic field. Capacitors are often attached to motors, where they function as a means of stabilizing the voltage while also offering the jolt required to start up the motor at the start. In air conditioners, the capacitors are connected to the trio or primary motors, being the outdoor fan motor, the blower motor, and the compressor motor. Every one of these has two distinct capacitors; the start capacitor is there to start the motor up, while the run capacitor is what maintains smoothly running operations.

A failing capacitor is a very common culprit behind air conditioner malfunctions. Fortunately, if capacitor problems are caught in time, then a repair technician can swap the bad capacitors out easily for new ones, all without any drastic impact on the air conditioner. On the other hand, if a bad capacitor is just ignored, then you might wind up with a broken-down air conditioner in the middle of a warm-season when you really need it.

The Bad Capacitor Blues

What bad capacitors do more than anything else is what is known as ‘hard starting’ That’s when the AC compressor has a hard time getting fired up, so it stutters as it tries to turn on, but then it shuts off only a short time later? Hard starting can happen because of many various causes. The worst of them is a compressor that’s near the end of its service cycle, but bad start capacitors are the most frequent issue. Diagnosing a start capacitor as the issue isn’t always easy to accomplish. An industry technician can examine each capacitor to ascertain any visible damage, such as leaking oil, bulging, or splitting. They can also conduct electrical tests in order to be sure.

Any motor that’s connected to its run or start capacitor might still try to start, even if one or both capacitors failed. If this happens, the motor will hum, but it’s not going to run for very long. If this happens, then the motor is going to get hot and burn out over time, meaning that the whole motor is going to need replacement. If you personally witness this particular humming sound or notice that the motors don’t stay on, then you need to cease air conditioner operations and use right away before calling for immediate repairs.

A clicking noise might happen before a capacitor fails on you. This can actually alert you to the issue before the fans or compressor stop functioning.

Capacitors have to get replaced in most cases of issues, be it the loss of charge or just damage. This is something best left in the hands of industry professionals, who can determine the best replacement and can take care of the safe removal of the old one. A capacitor leaking oil is dangerous, and not something that you want to touch.

Call us for AC repair services in your community. You can also check our blog for more related content. We can handle failed capacitors and anything else that’s getting in the way of your home to staying cool.