Category: Air Conditioner Problems

Covering Your Houston AC After Summer: Is It Advisable?

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Understanding If You Need To Cover Your AC After Summer In Houston

Your heating and cooling system needs maintenance. This needs to be done during some key times yearly. Spring is one of the times your air conditioner needs maintenance. Your heating unit also needs maintenance in the fall. Apart from that maintenance schedule, there is always a concern as to whether the exterior part of an air conditioning unit should be covered as soon as its cold.

When Covering Your A/C Should Happen

Once summer is over, your air conditioner needs to be covered. Covering your air conditioner is not just because of winter. As we stated earlier, your unit has the ability to withstand snow and rain. However, it is not made to lock out seeds, nuts or leaves.

Consequently, there is a need for you to cover your unit. This should be done only during the fall. Moisture is collected when seeds or leaves enter into your air conditioner. They create a place for moisture collection that results in corrosion. Any built-in moisture drainage channel can be blocked when this occurs.

You only need to cover the top of your air conditioner as opposed to fully covering the whole unit. In case you decide on making your own cover, it is important to note that this cover needs to be less than 6 inches. Covering it completely will lead to problems. It results in moisture being trapped within the unit. This leads to rust and corrosion.

Reason You Do Not Need Covering For Your A/C

Keeping elements away is one of the reasons why people cover certain items within homes. For instance, lawn furniture and swimming pools are often covered. This more so happens where there is no storage shed or a garage. In case you are wondering whether or not to cover your outside unit, you should know that it doesn’t need a cover.

Some individuals are of the opinion that a cover can offer protection to air conditioner units against:

Dirt

The air conditioner works by sucking in air when it is switched on. This sucking of air also lets dirt in. No debris or dirt goes into the unit once it is switched off.

Ice, Snow, And Cold Weather
Endurance to severe winter weather conditions is what outdoor cooling units are built for. This does away with the need of placing a cover on your unit.

Moisture

The condenser coils of your air conditioner can be frozen by water or moisture. This can result in damage as time passes. Nonetheless, there’s no way for moisture to be completely locked out of the unit all the time. Moisture will eventually seep in from blowing wind or through the air’s humidity.

Mold can be created when you decide to cover your air conditioner. This mold is caused by the moisture that is trapped within the unit. You should not use a cover for this reason.

Rodents

Small animals won’t be kept away by opting for a cover. Covers actually achieve the opposite result. Animals will see your cover as their new winter home. They will leave colder places and settle in your cover. Do not forget that rodents and such small animals are infamous for their abilities to find ways into small spaces.

Summing Up

You should note that your air conditioner is made to withstand winter conditions. You, therefore, do not need to cover it for the reasons that you have. Covering your unit needs to happen only in the fall. Our installation of units makes sure that they work perfectly. Our units come with attractive covers ensuring that they run smoothly.

Call or contact us today for more information!

Knowing What Mistakes To Avoid To Your Houston AC Unit

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10 Common AC Mistakes You Should Avoid In Houston

Almost every household has an air conditioner installed in place. Although its main purpose might seem simple, every AC system is made up of several complex components that work in harmony to make this possible. That said, a simple mistake on these units can have a significant impact on the system’s efficiency and overall home comfort. Some of the typical AC mistakes you should avoid are outlined below.

1. Wrong-Sized AC Systems

Investing in the wrong-sized AC system will only result in more problems and higher energy bills in the long run. Unlike popular belief, a bigger air conditioner isn’t always a better option. Too big an air conditioner will only cycle on and off constantly causing temperature fluctuations and increased energy wastage. An undersized AC unit will also be as problematic for it will struggle to keep the entire house cool and comfortable. If it manages to, it will be running in maximum capacity and load, thus increasing the risk of a breakdown and costly repairs.

Have an HVAC professional inspect your home to determine the best and right-sized AC unit to invest in. The contractor will put into consideration your home layout, square footage, load generating appliances, and insulation, among other factors before making any recommendations. The size of your home is, however, the principle factor that will determine which AC unit is best for you.

2. Incorrectly Positioning The AC Unit

Positioning holds the key to improved efficiency and reduced strain. That said, you need to look for just the right spot to position the AC Unit. Several factors, such as direct sunlight, shade, and direction of sunrays need to be considered when picking a spot for the heavy HVAC system. It’s advisable to have the system installed in a shaded spot outside the house and away from direct sun rays. Placing the outdoor unit in a shaded part of the home allows it to function more efficiently. Proper installation is also required to ensure the system is not only well secured but to allow proper drainage. This is particularly recommended for window-mounted AC units.

3. Leaving The AC System ON All Day Long

Most people forget all about the AC system for as long as the house is cool and comfortable. Unless you are home all the time, it’s advisable to turn the thermostat up when leaving the house in the morning (or when about to run an errand) and turn it back down when you come back. Turning the AC system up means it doesn’t have to run full blast all day long. Smart thermostats make it possible to turn the AC system off entirely until when you are just about to step in the door. It only takes a few minutes for the AC system to cool your home, learn to turn it off when no one is home

4. Leaving The AC Unit Off For Far Too Long

While it is advisable to turn off the AC unit when you leave the house, it wouldn’t be wise to leave the unit off for weeks or even days. As long as the unit is turned off completely, it won’t be able to cycle as it should. This creates an avenue for mold, mildew, and other creepy organisms to make a home out of the unit. Whether going for a long vacation or don’t need to use the AC system, have the system run for a few minutes every day. This should help keep it in its optimal health as well as deter these living organisms from infesting it. Investing in a smart programmable thermostat would be an excellent idea too.

5. Wrong Thermostat Settings

Incorrect thermostat settings will have a direct impact on your comfort levels and energy consumption. If you wish to set the temperature at 77 degrees, don’t set it to 70 to accelerate the cooling process. As mentioned above, AC units take only a few minutes to reach the set/desired room temperatures. The same applies to when you wish to set the temperature a little lower. Check the sweet spot where you are comfortable without putting unnecessary strain on the unit. Doing this will leave your home comfortable and is good for your wallet as well.

6. Failure To Use Ceiling Fans

The HVAC unit isn’t meant to replace the traditional fan. The two systems are meant to work together to achieve better results easily. The ceiling fan, for example, helps move air around the room, thus accelerating the cooling process. This means the AC unit won’t take long before it attains the set temperatures. As weird as it may sound, running the two systems together will help you achieve comfortable temperatures fast without wasting any energy. Some of the best ceiling fans create a ‘wind chill’ which might be enough to keep you comfortable on warmer days.

7. Using The Air Filter For Too Long

The air filter plays a vital role in removing dust, pollen, and other debris from the air before it is blown into your home. Although these little components may be efficient at first, they can easily get clogged with dirt and debris as the AC system continues to run. Experts recommend having these filters removed/replaced/cleaned at least once a month. Some of the high-efficiency filters will only need to be cleaned regularly before requiring a replacement. Replacing your AC’s air filters enables it to run more efficiently and also reduces the risk of allergens finding their way into the house. Dirty and old air filters, on the other hand, only reduce the system’s efficiency while causing freezing issues.

8. Letting Fresh Air In While The System Runs

Many people will open a few windows or even the door in an attempt to ‘help’ the AC system cool the home more efficiently. What they don’t know is opening the windows lets in moisture loaded air into the house, forcing the unit to work even harder to remove the excess moisture. That said, it would be advisable to let the AC unit do its work and leave the windows and doors closed for the time. Consider Turning down the AC unit if you have to open the windows or doors for more extended periods.

9. Neglecting the AC Unit

Like any other electrical/mechanical appliance, the air conditioner should be serviced twice per year. This ensures the system is running optimally by having any loose components fixed, and any broken ones replaced to restore its performance. Simple routine maintenance such as clearing outgrowths from the outdoor unit, checking the filters, as well as the ductwork, is recommended too. Have a certified HVAC technician run diagnosis and other routine maintenances for a properly functioning system.While the HVAC expert might only access the units once in a year, you need to make it a habit of running maintenance checks such as replacing the air filter, checking refrigerant levels, and looking out for broken parts.

10. Turning A Deaf Ear To A Straining AC Unit

The AC unit might start producing rattling sounds after some time. While this might be normal, you need to check it out to see if it’s a loose screw and tighten it. These units will continue running even if a fan blade is broken among other issues. If the AC doesn’t cool the home like it used to, you need to check it out. These units will give you warning signs before they break down completely. Have a professional HVAC technician handle technical issues to avoid an emergency in the future.

We at AC Man Houston are experts in HVAC systems. We have trained experts capable of handling all issues related to HVAC systems. This includes installations. Call or contact us today for more information!

A Guide On How To Prevent Failure Of Your Houston AC Compressor

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8 AC Compressor Failure Causes That Can Be Prevented In Houston

There many issues that can cause your air conditioning system to break down. Fortunately, not all of the fixes are expensive. The problem might be a loose wire that has caused your air conditioner to experience a power failure. Or your air filter might be clogged that is impeding air flow into your air conditioning system.

However, if your AC compressor failure causes the system to breakdown, then that is a major AC emergency service issue and a huge expense that you will be forced to deal with. The compressor is an expensive and critical component, and when it breaks down you might find yourself spending a lot of money on a new air conditioning unit.

Fortunately, up to 80 percent of AC compressor failure causes can be prevented if the problems that lead up to the failure are fixed in a timely fashion. During the regular AC preventative maintenance process, those problems can be discovered and eliminated.

What Is The Compressor?

The compressor on your air conditioner is frequently considered to the heart of the entire system. There are a couple of different reasons why it is a good analogy:

The compressor is one of the critical components that the system cannot function without.

Usually, it is very reliable, and if it did fail before the expected life span (10-15 years), it most likely will be due to an underlying cause that frequently could have been prevented.

If it does fail, it will be expensive and at times will be impossible to repair.

Just as your heart pumps blood throughout your body, the job of the compressor is to compress the refrigerant gas and then pump it throughout the system so it removes humidity as well as heat out of the air.

So now you see why it is so crucial to maintain your compressor in great condition. Now let’s take a closer look at some of the main things that may cause AC compressor failure and steps you can take to avoid them.

Issues That Cause The Failure Of The AC Compressor

When the AC compressor does fail, it frequently occurs based on an underlying problem that places stress on your system. There are two reasons why this is important to know:

By discovering the repairing of the underlying cause, it can help you prevent the failure of your AC compressor.

If a failed compressor is replaced without repairing the underlying cause, then your new compressor will also likely fail.

There are two common issues that can cause your AC compressor to fail:

1. Dirty Coils

Whenever grime, mineral scales, and dust build up onto the condenser coil, then the air conditioner will not be able to expel a sufficient amount of heat from the system and will be forced to constantly run in an attempt to cool down your home. The increased temperature and pressure may cause your compressor to overheat and then fail eventually.

2. Blocked Suction Lines

Whenever the refrigerant lines on your air conditioner become damaged or blocked, the first thing that you will notice is the unit is not cooling your home as effectively as it used to be. If you don’t fix the problem, then the increased temperature and pressure will once again cause it to overheat and the AC compressor will fail.

3. Low Refrigerant Charge

If the refrigerant lines on your system develop cracks or holes, the air conditioner will leak refrigerant. Soon the level will become so low the compressor is forced to work harder in order to pump a sufficient amount of refrigerant through its system in order to cool down your home. The strain will cause your compressor to break down eventually.

4. Incorrect Size Of The Suction Line

If leaks develop in the refrigerant line it will need to be replaced, and be sure to have the job done by an experienced AC technician. A line that is too small or too large for your system it may cause your AC compressor to fail prematurely.

5. Too Much Refrigerant

If an individual who is less-than-qualified works on your air conditioning system and mistakenly adds the wrong type or too much refrigerant, then it could be a fatal mistake for your compressor.

6. Electrical problems

When an electrical failure occurs that may result in acid builds up that may cause extensive damage to other parts along with the compressor. If you do have a failed compressor on your hands, be sure your technician tests to see if these acids are present. If they are discovered, the damage has been caused throughout the system by an electrical burnout that probably is not worth the money to fix it.

However, electrical problems are frequently preventable when your system is inspected by an experienced technician. He will be able to detect and repair damaged contractors, fuses, and wiring before your system breaks down and causes the AC compressor to fail.

7. Contaminants Inside Your System

The oil and refrigerant circulate throughout the refrigeration loop while the compression is operating. Over time, it can become contaminated with rust due to metal particles, desiccant, and moisture due to a failed compressor. Those impurities will travel along with the mixture of the refrigerant oil and settle through the system.

If a new compressor is put into a refrigerant system that is dirty, the new compressor will end up sucking in loose contaminant particles and will fail rather quickly. Inspect the expansion devices and oil for signs of foreign particles or grit.

8. Inadequate Oil Lubricant

To take our heart analogy one step further, consider the oil lubricant in your air conditioner as the blood inside of your body. If that is not enough, then the system will not work correctly and all types of problems may result, which include the AC compressor failing. When your system is maintained on a regular basis by a trained AC professional, this problem can be prevented by him checking the oil pump’s condition and lubricant levels.

Provide Your Compressor With AC Preventative Maintenance

If you care for your compressor properly, it will do a good job with the air in your home by providing you with reliable, consistent cool. This means your air conditioning system should be serviced twice a year at minimum, by an experienced, knowledgeable technician such as AC Man Houston. Then you will know they have the necessary expertise to detect and prevent problems that may cause your AC compressor to fail.

Were you aware that you can get the best deal on your AC preventative maintenance if you invest in an annual service contract? That will also provide you with a maintenance plan that is specifically designed for your budget and needs. Would you like to learn more? Check out our free guide. For dependable AC repair service call on AC Man of Houston and let our experts assist you with all of your AC repair, replacement, and maintenance service need. We can service all makes and models of air conditioning systems, You can rely on us for a wide range of air conditioning services other than window units. We are one of the very companies that are certified. We are one of the very best around!

Contact us now or call us today for more information!

What You Do When Your AC Breaks Down In Houston

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Your Guide To Knowing When Your Houston AC Unit Needs Maintenance

What do Houstonians fear the most? It is their air conditioner breaking down! And there is a good reason for this! Losing the refreshing coolness can be brutal when humidity and temperatures are in the 90’s or higher. However, air conditioners do break down, and then they do, you have to be fully prepared. The two major kinds of AC outages are your AC dying due to a mechanical problem or age or because your electricity has gone out.

What To Do Whenever Your AC Breaks Down & Your Electricity Is Out?

Assuming that your house was cool when your AC broke down, you should do the following:

Darken Your House By Closing All Of The Blinds Or Curtains.

You will ideally have blackout curtains on the window to help with blocking out the heat from the sun. If not, then cover up windows as best as possible.

Leave Your Windows Closed As Long As You Can.

If you have cool air inside of your house already, but you can bet that it is less humid compared to outside. For as long as possible, keep your windows shut and blinds drawn. Depending on how long you are without electricity, you might need to eventually open them. However, keep the drier air that is inside your house as long as you possibly can.

Rinse A Sheet Or Towel Out In Cold Water And Then Put It Over Yourself As You Are Sleeping.

Wear cotton. Put on the loosest, coolest cotton clothes that you own. Cool down as fast as you can. If you feel really hot, cool your pulse points down using ice or cold water. Those points include behind the knees, ankles, elbows, groin, neck, and wrists. Just be sure you don’t leave your freezer open for a long time. You want all of your frozen foods to last for as long as possible.

Keep Away From Everybody.

That sounds very antisocial. However, you will be a lot cooler if you are not sleeping or sitting next to someone. Besides need, there is a reason, the people have slept together in the same bd before there was central heating – which was to generate heat. So keep your distance, if you would like to stay cool.

Stay Hydrated.

That means you need to drink plenty of water. There are other adult beverages and liquid that are not hydrated. Whenever you are hot, you end up losing a lot of hydration from sweating. It needs to be replenished.

Sleep On Your Floor.

There are file floors on many houses in Houston. Although it is not comfortable, it is cool and tiles do not retain heat the way a mattress does. Keep in mind that hot air rises. Stay on your first floor, if you have a second one. When it is time to go to bed, think about sleeping on your floor instead of the top bunk. That is one time your kids won’t be arguing about who should sleep on top.

Take Off Your Socks & Shoes.

Keep all of your pulse points free of any warm and tight clothing.

Eat Cold Foods.

Especially since they are melting anyway in your freeze. Take the ice cream and popsicles out and enjoy them while you still can.

Open Your Windows.

You will eventually have to open your windows if the outage does last long enough. Get as much cross ventilation as you can when you do this. However, if your house faces the west or south, and it is in the middle of the afternoon unless there is a refreshing breeze that is blowing through, it is usually best to keep your front windows covered up. The sun will warm your house a lot more efficient than the breeze can cool it down.

Go someplace where there is electricity or go swimming.

Outages are often localized. Just because there is no power in your neighborhood, the AC at the library or mall across town might be working just fine. During the hottest part of the day, find someplace to cool off, like a local Houston pool.

From hurricanes to car crashes to blown transformers to unexpected lightning storms, those who live in Houston seem like they lose electricity several times per life at least. This is why it is so important having the following items handy.

  • Bottled water. If possible, store it in a dark, cool place (64 ounces for each member of your household. That will get you through the day. Also make sure you have water for your pets.)
  • Battery-operated fans
  • Clean towels
  • Flashlights
  • Battery-operated weather radio to stay current on weather conditions.

One last note on the Houston area’s bad weather. There are some unexpected outages. However, when there is a storm, the power can go out any time. Make sure your phone stay charged. Allow your battery to go down to 10% means if the electricity goes out then your phone will die right away.

You will lose your phone power eventually, but if it is fully charged when the power goes out, it will last much longer. That is important since you can keep informed on when the electricity is going to be restored.

What To Do When Your AC Dies Or It Needs to Be Replaced?

If your air conditioner dies due to age or a mechanical issue, here at AC Man of Houston is here to help and has 24-hour AC technicians on call. So how can you tell if your air conditioning unit is about to die? Typically, there are signs that will clue you in.

The Temperature Varies From One Room To The Next

Whenever you can detect a noticeable difference in temperature by simply walking into a different room, then your air conditioner will start to lose its ability to evenly distribute cool throughout your house. The air filters might be clogged or dirty, but it also can signal that the motor on the AC unit is not as efficient and is set to die.

The AC Is Very Noisy

If the AC unit in your house is very noisy, then most likely it is working harder than it is supposed to be to keep cold air circulating all through your house. AC units that are about to die with frequently make a squealing or clanging sound whenever they are running. That might mean the compressor is about to die, the ban blades have worn out, or there are some loose parts inside of the unit. No matter what the reason is for your air conditioner is so loud, there is a high chance it is about to die.

The AC Will Not Turn Off

If your air conditioner continues to run, but your home is not getting very cool, then the motor on the unit might be becoming overworked and is about to break down. That can signal that there is a refrigerant leak or problem with the compressor. Also, the system might get clogged with dirt that is blowing inside, and that might be causing the AC unit to not be as efficient as it should be. If the temperature inside your home is not getting as cool as the temperature that is set on your thermostat, then you might need to replace your air conditioner.

The Air Inside Your Home Is Dusty And Dry

Another symptom of a dying air condition is it not being able to filter impurities like carbon monoxide, mold, and dust out of the air. That might not only be a sign that your air conditioner is dying, but might affect your health as well. If you have a dry throat or notice an unusually high amount of dust on the furniture, you definitely should have your air conditioner looked at by an AC technician as soon as you can.

The AC Unit Needs To Be Repaired Frequently

If your air conditioner has to be repaired frequently, then investing in a new one is probably a good idea. At some point, it won’t be worth it to keep paying for repairs, and your AC technician can inform you whether or not you need to get a new AC unit.

The AC Unit Is Old

If you have an air conditioner that is over 12 years old, then it might be time to get it replaced. However, run time is a lot more important than the age of the unit. That is especially true in Houston, where a majority of air conditioners run all year long. The bottom line is you need to monitor your AC unit’s condition, so you would be surprised if it breaks down.

Do You Need A New AC Unit?

At some point where the AC unit will finally die a natural death. Therefore, you need to be prepared to replace it, especially during those long dog days of summer in Houston. Our highly experienced and trained technicians will inform you of what your options are. If you do need to get a new air conditioner, then AC Man of Houston has affordable financing options available for you.

Air Conditioning Maintenance Services

There are trained Comfort Specialists on our staff who are here to help you achieve a comfortable home with colling services – from superior equipment, design, installation, maintenance, and customer service. AC Man of Houston will assist you with improving your home’s efficiency by providing you with prompt and precise service. AC Man of Houston technicians can service all brands. We are one of the most trustworthy air conditioning repair companies in Houston. The commitment of our staff to customers and our expertise is what sets us apart in our field and in the Houston area. Combined with our quality products and technical services, we guarantee to provide the best customer service experience to you.

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

Most Common Problems With Your Houston AC

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How To Solve The Most Common AC Problems In Houston

In Houston air conditioning is an absolute necessity, and life can be miserable if your air conditioner breaks down. Repairs can be expensive, so it is very important to ensure that your air conditioner is in optimal shape through regular maintenance. It is a good idea to always be aware of some of the most common problems that can occur with your air conditioner.

10 Of The Most Common Air Conditioning Problems & How To Solve Them

Filter

One common reason why air conditioners do not work correctly is a dirty or clogged filter. Follow the recommendations of the manufacturer to find out how frequently to change the air filter on your air conditioner. Some are once a month, others are every three months, and others are reusable and need to be cleaned whenever they get dirty. One way of determining whether a filter should be cleaned or not is to check to see if there is any light passing through it. If you can’t, then it is time for you to clean it. Not only do dirty filters reduce air flow but may cause the air conditioner unit to freeze as well.

Thermostat

Another thing that is easy to fix is to ensure your thermostat (which controls your home’s temperature setting) is turn on, that it is clean inside, that it is level, that sunlight is not affecting it, and it is on the proper setting. If the problems still persist, then there might be another problem.

Refrigerant Leaks

Whenever the coolant starts to leak in your air conditioner, then the unit will not perform properly, and the temperature is going to fluctuate. The leak’s location with affect how much the repair costs so it is recommended that you have a trained AC technician examine your unit every year.

Drainage

The drain line, like the filer, can become clogged with lint, dust, and dirt. If it does become clogged, then the drain pan will start filling up, and water is going to leak out which can potentially cause damage to the air conditioning unit or whatever is surrounding your pan.

Fuses Or Breakers

The fuses and breakers protect the AC unit’s compressor or motor from overheating. Whenever a motor dies, quite often one of the first parts checked by the HVAC technician is the breaker.

Capacitors

If there were no capacitors, then the motor powering the fans and compressor will not work. A jolt is sent by the start capacitor to activate the motor and the run capacitor sends out a series of jolts in order to keep the motor operating. If either one burns out the AC unit will not run efficiently.

Compressor

Energy is applied to the refrigerant by the compressor and propels it throughout the coils in order for heat exchange to be carried out. If the compressor does not work, then the AC until cannot cool your home. The compressor will start running hot and seize eventually if there isn’t enough refrigerant. If there is too much refrigerant then it will return back into the compressor, and that may cause the compressor to fail.

Evaporator Coils

Heat in the air is absorbed by the evaporator coils and send it back into the house in the form of cold air via air ducts. Evaporator coils can become corroded. However, if they are inside, then typically they will only need maintenance once every three years or so.

Condenser Coils

These coils are on the outside along with the compressor. Therefore, they can get dirty from the element. Usually, you can use a water hose to clean them one per year. However, if they become too dirty, you will need to get an HVAC technician to use a chemical cleaner to get them clean.

Worn Contactor

AC units have contractors for the condenser fan motor, the blower motor, and the compressor. These contractors make electrical connections that start the compressor and motor. If the contractor has pitting and arcing on it, then it becomes hard for the motors to be started by the electrical current.

Check out our blog for more related content. For more information on Houston HVAC services, contact AC Man Of Houston today by giving us a call. Contact us today for any questions or concerns.

Tips On Maintaining Your Air Conditioning Unit In Houston

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Maintain Your Houston Air Conditioner For Better Results

In many areas, an air conditioner is really an absolute necessity, and that doesn’t even dive into the idea of how much AC really affects the quality of life. However, an air conditioner isn’t magic, it’s a machine, and that means it needs proper maintenance to keep it up and running at full efficiency. This means paying special attention to the coils, fins, and filters in an air conditioner. If you don’t pay attention to these, then over time the air conditioner will steadily lose power and effectiveness.

Don’t Forget The Filters!

This is one of the most frequent, and important, tasks that will fall to you to make sure your air conditioning unit is running at full capacity. Filters get dirty over time and with a lot of use, and that means not only does the air not get as cold, but the air conditioner works harder to push that air through. Add in the fact that not changing filters can eventually result in dirt, dust, and other things getting through to the coils and that can cause bigger issues with other parts of the air conditioner.

Pay attention to how often air filters need to be changed and make sure to change them out on a regular basis. They aren’t expensive and changing out a dirty filter can help increase an AC unit’s efficiency a full 15% or more in some circumstances. That’s nothing to sneeze at.

Air Conditioner Coils

There are a couple of coils that need attention. There are the condenser coils and evaporator coils. Both can collect dirt and other airborne debris. A clean filter is a great way to prevent more dirt from gathering. At the same time, making sure to keep the coils clean is important. Reducing airflow isn’t good for the air conditioner. The good news is that these coils don’t need to be checked up as often as filters.

Generally speaking, you want to look at cleaning the coils once a year. This will normally be enough, and keeping all the coils clean is important to prevent additional heat from building up within the system. You want heat absorbed where it is supposed to be, but the other parts of the unit to cool air that is brought in without bringing in a lot of other dirt and gunk.

Maintaining The Coil Fins

Generally speaking, the fins that are found on both types of coils are made with aluminum. This means that they can be fairly easily bent and when that happens airflow can be partially blocked. This is why you will want a “fin comb” which is a pretty common tool available in most handyman type stores. Using these fins will allow you to comb them back to their original pristine condition which will maximize the cool air flow.

Check The Condensate Drains

The biggest concern with drains is if they get clogged. If this happens, then the air conditioner is going to have a tough time reducing humidity. It only takes a stiff wire to run through the drain channels to see if there are any clogs and then clear them out. Clearing these out will help the air conditioner work at full speed once again.

Check The Seal

If you’re using a window unit as opposed to centralized air then you will want to check the seal around the unit before each summer to make sure that it is solid and will keep hot air out so the air conditioner’s cold air can be more effectively contained inside.

Talking To A Professional

Sometimes you will need a professional technician to check on things. The technician will have the skill and tools to check on refrigerant levels, see if there are any leaks, take care of any necessary repairs, measure air flow, and make sure your unit is fully back up to snuff and working at full capacity. There are many small issues that can affect the overall effectiveness of the air conditioner that only a fully trained and certified technician can figure out so if you’ve gone through all the basic maintenance steps and still can’t figure out what’s wrong then it’s time to call a professional.

Should I Cover My Air Vents?

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Air Vent Covers Yea or Nea?

The hot summers are bearable if you have air conditioning that works perfectly. You should not have to endure the heat of summer because you have a faulty HVAC system.

Of the many HVAC system problems we have been called to fix, we have discovered that the problem can be with the air vents that are blocked or close. As such, the homeowners will be quick to think that their heating and cooling system is on the fritz.

The issue of blocked or closed air vents can be accidental. It may happen when rearranging the furniture or when doing some general cleaning and fail to notice the vents. In other cases, people will close the vents with the intention of changing the room temperature around the house but will forget and leave them shut. If the vents are not open so that air can move around the house from the AC, then this increases the risk of damage cost repairs or a new HVAC system.

 

Why You Should Not Cover Air Vents

  1. It interferes with your system’s airflow
    When the air from the HVAC unit is dispersed into the vents, it needs to flow freely so that the entire system can work properly. Shutting the vents forces excess air back to the AC unit that this leads to costly damages.
  2. It wastes your money
    The restricted flow of air in the vent which can be due to blockage or closed pathways will force the HVAC to work double time to have the desired or set room temperature. In short, the unit will use up more electricity trying to attain the set temperatures, and this leads to a high utility bill.
  3. You could damage your heat exchanger
    With air flow restricted, the eventuality is a buildup of air pressure in the vents that will cause problems with the heat exchanger. The increasing pressure will cause the heat exchanger to crack and possibly release carbon monoxide into the house.
  4. It may trigger complications with your air duct system
    The blocked air will keep building up a press, and it will eventually force its way through the ductwork to escape. As a result, this weakens the duct system; and if the ductwork is old, then damages can be significant and costly.

So, as you think of a new HVAC system for your home, you should consult our experts to ensure that you make the best purchase. We have dedicated technicians ready to pick your call and help you make the right choice that will meet your needs.

Top-Rated Air Conditioning Repair Services

AC Man of Houston is your reliable air conditioning service provider. Our AC experts can help inspect, clean, repair, and replace the HVAC in your home or office. We have vast knowledge about all AC makes and models.

We offer our services to Katy and the Greater Houston, TX areas. Our years of excellent service delivery has seen as become the leading choice for all AC service issues. And since we know that there are many other contractors our there you can hire, we strive to go the extra mile to ensure that you are happy and satisfied with your services. AC Man will send qualified, skilled, technicians that are courteous and dedicated to their work. They will assess your home or business HVAC system and provide the best service solutions with a price quote for any repairs handed to you before work begins.

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.

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

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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!

Houston AC Repair: Why Is My Air Conditioning System Not Cooling?

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AC Repair Houston: Reasons Why Your Air Conditioner Is Not Keeping You Cool

Do you have an air conditioner running in your home, yet the air is not truly cool? Maybe it is blowing out warm or just plain hot air. There are several things that may be wrong with your A/C if it is not working properly. Below you are going to find the solutions to some very easy fixes that may help you to get it running properly and what can only be fixed by a professional.

Easy Air Conditioner Problems That You Can Fix

Problem 1: Thermostat Mistakes

Do you have an A/C that blows cold air at times and lukewarm other times? This may be due to the fan setting being switched to “ON”, which is going to cause the fan to run all the time, even when the air is not being cooled by the unit. Easy Solution: Simply ensure that the thermostat is set to work on “AUTO”.

Problem 2: Air Filter Issues

A dirty air filter is going to reduce the amount of air flow in the unit, which can cause several problems. First, the unit is going to struggle to circulate the correct amount of air that is needed to bring the house to the desired temperature. In addition, the evaporator coil is going to freeze up and air will not be able to circulate at all, meaning you get almost zero cool air. Solution: Take the air filter out and examine it to see if it needs a cleaning. If you are indeed having issues with your residential air conditioner, contact an ac repair Houston professional today.

Problem 3: Dirty Unit

The way an air conditioner cools a house is a rather simple process. The evaporator takes hot air in and transfers it to the outside unit known as the condenser. However, if the condenser is dirty or covered, it is not going to be able to dissipate that heat correctly. This causes the unit to overwork and not be able to cool the home properly. Solution: Gently clean the outside of the unit with a garden hose, clearing off the debris. It is important that you do not spray the unit with the hose on the highest setting as this may bend the fins that allow airflow to the condenser. While you are outside, be sure to remove all tall weeds and leaves away from the unit. You want your unit to have the ability to breathe on those hot summer days too! A clean and well-maintenanced air conditioner will bring about better indoor air quality.

Problems Only An AC Repair Houston Expert Can Solve

There are going to be problems that only a ac repair Houston professional can take on, these are just a few of them.

Problem 1: Broken Or Faulty Condenser Fan Motor

If the init’s fan has gone bad, there is no way that it can dissipate heat, which simply means you are not going to get any cold air.

Problem 2: Low Refrigerant

The refrigerant that is found in the unit is the key ingredient to absorbing the heat from the air. When there is not enough refrigerant in the unit, it is not going to be able to cool the air. If you do have low refrigerant it more than likely means you have a leak. Some typical signs that you have a leak include:

  • Ice found on the outside of the unit and refrigerant line.
  • A hissing or bubbling noise coming from the unit.
  • The unit can not cool the home on hot sunny days but is able to work fine in the evening or on cool days.

If you see any of these signs, it is time to turn the unit and call an ac repair Houston professional as soon as possible. When you run the unit in this state, it is possible to damage the unit beyond any possible repair.

Problem 3: Faulty Compressor

The compressor of your unit is the heart of the system, it is the part that circulates the refrigerant through the unit and helps to cool it. If this part is damaged, the unit is going to be unable to cool the house. If the compressor is damaged, it is going to need to be replaced. However, this can be a rather expensive process. If you do not have a warranty on the unit, it may be best to simply replace the unit at this point.

For more insight on the latest AC Man Of Houston, articles check out our blog. If you are interested in speaking with a professional AC Repair Houston expert, contact by giving us a call today at (713) 460-2653tel:(713) 460-2653

Houston Air Conditioning Repair: What Is The Life Expectancy Of My HVAC System?

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Air Conditioning Repair Expert: The Life Expectancy Of Houston HVAC Systems

How long will it last? As an HVAC Houston expert, this is one question we get asked by almost all our clients every time we install a new HVAC system for them. The answer it depends. On what? Well, on how you maintain your system. Manufacturers make their systems slightly different from other and one system could last much longer than the other. For instance, if a Houston HVAC uses low-quality compressors in its systems, then the overall life expectancy of its systems will significantly drop since it is often more expensive to replace compressors than it is to replace the entire system. Below is a chart outlining the average life expectancy of a Houston HVAC system based on national averages, old estimates and how much maintenance it requires. Please remember that these are simply estimates and not guarantees. Therefore, the brand you go for could possess lower or higher life expectancy. If you are in need of assistance from a professional Houston HVAC repair company, you are in the right place.

Maintenance Tips For Your Houston HVAC System:

• Change the system’s filter regularly (preferably every 1-3 months)
• Get seasonal servicing and tune-ups
• Remove any debris within the unit
• Check and replace refrigerant insulation if need be

Zero Maintenance

(0 items)

 Light Maintenance

(1-2 Items)

 Medium Maintenance

(2-3 Items)

 Heavy Maintenance

(4 items)
Between 15 to 18 yrs Between 18 to 20 yrs Between 20 to 25 yrs 25 plus yrs

Houston HVAC System Exclusions

The chart above is for an average central heating/AC system; if you still use wood stoves, oil burners or any other form of heating, then your numbers will be significantly different. Oil-based furnaces tend to last a couple of years at most and require tons of maintenance for them to run optimally. As more traditional systems, they can last a couple of years and aren’t too expensive, making them a popular option for some. Geothermal systems also aren’t included in the chart but generally last about 30 years and more. When well-maintained, these systems can last much longer than you! Boilers, on the other hand, tend to follow the chart, except that they last a bit long 1 to 3 years longer than the average HVAC system. Some additional accessories and features not included include:

  • Dehumidifiers 8 to 10 years
  • Humidifiers 8 to 10 years
  • Duct/Ventilation Work 8 to 10 years
  • Insulation 100 years
  • Thermostats 35 to 40 years

Each one of these has their own life expectancy depending on the specific brand.

Average Life Expectancy Of A Houston HVAC System

Most HVAC Houston companies and organizations agree that homeowners can get anywhere between 15 and 25 years of service from the system. Some will say 15, some 20, and others 25. However, the truth is that your system will last as long as you’d want it to. As long as you are maintaining your system and have it serviced and tuned up often, your system should last you a very long time. Most homeowners in Houston decide to have theirs replaced by a professional HVAC Houston service provider for a newer, more efficient models after about 10 to 15 years. In the long run, having your system replaced every 15 to 20 years (which is the average life expectancy for most systems) is generally more economical considering the savings made from lowered energy bills and maintenance fees. You don’t want to be calling out HVAC repair experts time and time again, as any savings you stood to have made will disappear pretty quickly. So don’t be afraid to replace and upgrade.

A faulty HVAC on a hot day is not a pleasant situation to be in. With hvac dispatch software from ServiceMax, technicians can get to the service place with all the required parts faster.

Contact A Houston HVAC Expert

If you believe it is time to get a replacement or maintenance services for your HVAC system then do not wait anymore. Contact the #1 company for all of your Houston HVAC needs. We are here to help you and bring the cool air back into your home. Call us right now.