Category: Air Conditioning

What To Do When Your Houston AC Is Not Blowing Cold Air

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Solutions When Your AC No Longer Blowing Cold Air In Houston

One of the worst things that can happen is for your air conditioner to stop working or malfunction during the hot summer months. However, there are a few ways that you can figure out what is wrong with your AC and why it is not emitting cold air. Of course, the best course of action is to hire an HVAC professional for diagnosis and repair. However, it is possible to find out the main issue on your own and let your contractor know as it can greatly help. This will ensure that your air conditioner is fixed as soon as possible since you definitely don’t want to be without a functioning air condition in sweltering conditions as it can be a health hazard.

There are many possible reasons why your AC unit has stopped functioning properly and some of them include:

  • The thermostat is not functioning properly
  • There is a build-up of ice
  • Refrigerant levels are too low
  • Issues with the power supply
  • The filter is clogged
  • The compressor is dirty
  • The drain is dirty or clogged
  • Issues with the airflow switch

However, even with problems like these, there is always hope. It is possible to fix some of these issues, but almost all of them can be quickly and easily fixed by an HVAC technician.

Power Supply Issues

Even though this may seem like an overly simplistic fix, if your air conditioner is not blowing any air or little air, then one of the first things you should check is if it is properly plugged into the power outlet. You should also check the power cord to ensure that it is still in good condition. Once it is okay, then there is the possibility that there is a problem with the electrical panel. The majority of air conditioners require a lot of electricity and as a result, it is possible that your air conditioner has caused a breaker to trip or even blow a fuse. There are also some air conditioners that have their own overload switch, so you should make sure to thoroughly check it out.

Malfunctioning Thermostat

Once you have thoroughly checked the power and that is fine, then the next thing you should check is the thermostat. It is possible that it is not properly set to the right temperature and you can check by adjusting the thermostat so that it is at the lowest temperature. It is possible that this can cause your unit to function and blow cold air once again. Additionally, you should check out all of the wires inside of the thermostat and make sure they are all connected.

Clogged Filter

Next, another possible reason for having a malfunctioning unit is that your filter is clogged. There are actually some air condition models that actually shut down if the filter becomes clogged. This is done so that overheating does not occur and cause motor damage. Also, if the filter is clogged, then the unit would not allow cool air to flow properly. So, if you have a clogged filter, you should clean it or even replace it.

Accumulation Of Ice

There are many reasons why ice can build up and accumulate in your units such as having low refrigerant levels or dirty filters or coils. So, one of the first things you should do is clean the coils and filters and then check to see if your problem is fixed. If there is a lot of ice, you will have to melt this ice by allowing the unit to run on the fan function. If at this point, the air condition unit is still not blowing cool air, then it may be highly possible that your unit is low on refrigerant.

Clogged Drainage

It is a fact that air condition units actually take out water or moisture from the air in the enclosed space. This waster then drains down through a drain pipe or hose and it is possible for this drain to become clogged. This feature ensures that water does not leak inside of your home or in the unit which can cause a great deal of damage. So, you should check to see if the drain is blocked with algae and you can clean it with a light bleach solution. This drain piping can also be replaced if necessary.

Dirt In The Compressor

One of the things you should do on a regular basis to maintain your air conditioner is to clean the space around your compressor. Over time, there will be a build-up of materials such as dirt, dust, leaves etc, which can greatly hamper your air conditioner from working as it should. It is possible for you to clean the compressor yourself or you can hire an HVAC technician to clean it for you as this will ensure that it is thoroughly cleaned. However, you should always make sure that the air conditioner is powered off before you start cleaning.

Airflow Switch Problems

When the drainpipe has too much water and becomes backed up, there are actually some air handlers that have an integrated safety float which automatically shuts off. So, if you have this issue, you should attempt to locate the tripped switch and then reset it once the drainpipe’s condenser is thoroughly cleaned.

Refrigerant Levels Are Too Low

Despite what you may hear, refrigerant doesn’t naturally deplete overtime or go bad. One typical reason why an air conditioner may stop blowing cold air is if there is a refrigerant leak. When there is a leak, this can cause the refrigerant levels to decrease slowly over time and you should always check the lines regularly to find these leaks. Once it has been found that the levels are low, then the system should be recharged so that the unit can function well, once again. However, it is best that you hire a professional to do this since handling refrigerant is dangerous due to the chemicals involved and most cooling systems are generally quite complex.

If you have an older unit, then you should think about updating it. By upgrading, you can get a system that is more reliable and it is quite a good investment, especially if your current unit is over 10 years old, is expensive to fix and if you’re having problems with it on a regular basis.

Basically, if you can prevent some issues, it will be worth it in the long run. It is important that you have an HVAC technician inspect your unit on a yearly basis so that you can ensure it is well maintained and you avoid typical problems and the loss of function of your unit.

This technician will ensure that your unit is in great condition and will ensure that it is always compliant with the building codes in your state. So, if you have any doubt, you should definitely hire a professional as opposed to trying to figure out the problem yourself, which can cause even more damages.

If you’re looking for a well known and reliable AC service, then you should check out the AC Man of Houston since we have the best technicians to solve any AC problem as well as maintain your unit. We can provide services for any model or type of AC units and you can definitely depend on us. However, do note that we don’t service window units. Our company is fully certified and is truly the best AC company in Houston. So, be sure to contact us or give us a call and we will take care of any AC problem you have and ensure that your home is always cool and comfortable. Do not forget to check out our blog for more related content!

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.

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.

 

What Does A Professional Houston AC Maintenance Involve?

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An Overview Of An AC Maintenance Services In Houston

Professional air conditioning maintenance is performed by qualified technicians. Each technician is going to have their own list of things that they do, but there are some elements to the service that most licensed HVAC technicians will include by default.

Professional AC Servicing & Maintenance

If you call a licensed HVAC technician out to service your HVAC system, they should clean, test and inspect it thoroughly, including:

  • Examining the thermostat: Calibrate the thermostat, and also make sure that it is correctly installed, and located away from any heat sources such as light bulbs or household appliances that give off heat.
  • Check and tighten electrical connections: Technicians should inspect any electrical connections to ensure that they are operating properly. This will not only improve the lifespan of the HVAC system, but it reduces any safety risks also.
  • Lubricate moving parts: Poor lubrication can be a source of damage to your HVAC system and causes parts to wear out more quickly. Lubrication will prolong the life of the system.
  • Clean the condensate drain line: The condensate drain line is used to drain liquid condensate from the air conditioner. If this line is allowed to become clogged it can lead to water leaks, wetness, and moisture issues. Mold and bacteria can also build up in the drain line. Your technician will check the drain line and the drain pan, and clean them both. If there are cracks and damage then they will address this.
  • Check the controls: The system controls should start, operate and shut off the system correctly. If the system is not operating properly then this could be wasting energy, and greatly increasing the running costs of the device.
  • Clean or replace the air filters: Some HVAC units have air filters that can be cleaned. Others use disposable air filters. It is important that the air filters are kept clear and un-clogged, to ensure that the filter is operating at its best capacity at all times.

AC Man Houston’s HVAC Tune-Up, Maintenance & Safety Inspections

Our team of trained HVAC technicians will visit properties in Houston to perform a 60 to 90-minute precision tune-up, maintenance, and cleaning, which includes the following 20 part service:

  • Measure amperage and voltage of the blower monitor
  • Test, calibrate and level the thermostat
  • Clean or replace the air filter
  • Inspect and lubricate bearings
  • Inspect the indoor coil
  • Flush, inspect and anti-algae treat the condensate drain
  • Inspect the condenser coil
  • Test and top off refrigerant as required
  • Inspect safety devices
  • Inspect the electrical disconnect box
  • Inspect electrical wiring and tighten connections as required
  • Test and inspect contacts
  • Check for exposed electrical wiring
  • Inspect and test all capacitors
  • Inspect the fan
  • Clean the condenser coil
  • Inspect service valves
  • Measure the temperature differential between supply and return
  • Inspect ductwork
  • Measure amperage and voltage of the compressor, monitor performance, and check wires

Give us a call or contact AC Man of Houston today with any inquiries!

Thoughtful Ideas On How To Make Your AC Work Efficiently In Houston

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Tips To Making Your Houston AC Work More Efficiently

When temperatures go up, your air conditioner has to work harder, and this can make its efficiency drop dramatically. Here are some steps that you can take that can lessen the burden on the air conditioner in your home and help it to run with more efficiency while it saves energy and reduces your utility bill.

1. Scheduled Maintenance

A cooling system that is tuned will have it working at peak performance. If your air conditioner is not serviced, it has to work longer and harder to give you the same degree of comfort, and it does so at reduced efficiency which only adds to your utility bill. It has been proven in studies that half the failures in these systems are due to their not being maintained.

2. Do Not Fiddle With The Thermo

Most people leave the setting on their air conditioner thermostats at 78 degrees F. Others will set it to even higher temperatures when the home is not inhabited. If this has become your practice, make sure that nobody changes the thermostat to lower temperatures for faster cooling. The cooling rate of an air conditioner is the same whatever the setting. If you have adjusted the temperature to 70 degrees F, it will not go to the required temperature of 78 degrees any faster. You can avoid this problem if you go in for a programmable thermostat.

3. Close The Curtains

Natural light can be a way to reduce your costs for lighting, but if there is nobody at home, it is best to keep the curtains closed even during the day. This is all the truer if your home has windows that face east or west. If you prevent the rays of the sun from directly entering your home, it will help to reduce the effort that your air conditioner has to make to cool your home. You can maximize this, by opening the curtains, blinds or drapes in the evening, so that the heat that is in the home is allowed to escape.

4. Use A Dehumidifier

The fact is that, as most people say, that it is the humidity and not the heat that is a problem. So switch on the dehumidifier as the temperature rises. Once the house has lower humidity, your house and your family will feel cooler. Combine a dehumidifier with fans, and your thermostat can even be set above 78 degrees F.

5. Your AC Must Be Out Of The Sun

Ideally, your air conditioner must be located on the northern side of your home. This is not possible in every case, but generally, you must keep the unit out of the sun by using other means. Use the landscape to do so, as this can also make your yard look nice. Plant trees and shrubs around the air conditioner so that it works more efficiently. The shade from your landscaping will keep the direct rays from the sun away from your home.

6. Your Chores Must Be Done At The Right Time

Cooking can heat kitchens, as can the use of dishwashers that dry the dishes. Clothes dryers can also heat space around them. See if you can perform these tasks in the evening or when there is nobody around in the home. When tasks are labor-intensive, it can be uncomfortable performing them during the hotter times of the day.

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

 

Ductless AC In Houston: Is It Good For Your Attic?

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Understanding Why Ductless Houston AC Are The Best Installation For Attics

Space is always at a premium, and this has led to the home remodeling fad of attic conversions. But most homeowners who undertake such conversions will attest that one of the challenges while doing this is the installation of air conditioning so that you can make full and maximum use of the added space.

While most attics, before their conversion, were just storage areas, they are now spaces that have become more significant as they can give you the extra space in your home that can then be used as any sort of room.

Changes in lifestyle, rising values in real estate, or costs of home improvement projects have quickly led to the transformation of attics becoming valuable commodities for any added space for the house that can add to its usable square footage.

If you are looking for a cooling solution to the attic that you have converted, then look at the possible options given here, that can enable you to make the best choice.

Room Air Conditioner

Room air conditioners are the most widely used equipment as they are self-contained units that are designed for the cooling of single rooms. Room ACs are either installed in windows or through openings created in walls.

Installation of a window air conditioner on standard-sized windows requires a bracket that can support the weight of the unit. Air conditioners that are installed through the wall will have a frame that is recessed into the created wall opening and will have a chassis sleeve that can also act to support the weight of the air conditioner.

It Is A Workable Option

Choosing a room air conditioner to cool an attic makes for an easy choice. It is easy to purchase, low cost, and its installation is simple, as you need nothing more than a window or any outlet in the wall where you can secure the unit after it has been placed.

Knowing a little bit about HVAC installation plus having a basic tool-set, can even allow you to do the job on your own. As an application, room ACs are the most suitable for any small spaces like your attic.

Is It The Best Choice?

Room ACs are designed for the cooling of single rooms, but they do have issues associated with them that limit the performance and efficiency of the system.

To start with, room air conditioners, traditionally, cannot handle the extreme heat that attics are normally prone to. This holds even if you have proper insulation and have used a unit of the correct size.

The ineffective cooling in the small and tight space of an attic is not just due to a system that has low performance, but can also be due to the characteristics of the attic itself. Structural challenges that are present in the attic conversion help to compound the problem.

Attics are spaces that are located just below the roof and do not have an original design that pays much attention to ventilation, and as a result, act like magnets for the build-up of heat. The attic, because of its position in the home also has to deal with the heat that rises inside the home, so this leads to it being hot at all times of the day. Temperatures inside attics are always more than that which is there outside.

Portable Air Conditioner

This type of air conditioner is again a single room cooling system that is portable as it is usually set on wheels. You can thus move it around on the floor to any location that you want.

These portable air conditioners work by using exhausts to remove the warm air and moisture inside the room being cooled. There are a window kit and drain hose that are parts of the unit and are used for the removal of moisture that develops as a result of air exhaustion. Condensate water that is collected form the moisture is collected in a removable container and can be emptied once it gets filled.

It Is A Workable Option

Portable air conditioners are costlier than average room air conditioners but are much cheaper than setting up a unit that uses ducted systems.

Setting up a portable air conditioner is quite easy. There is no mounting required or any complex installation procedures.

Portable ACs are meant for spot cooling and that is why they will work effectively in a small area like the attic. Spot cooling means that only a targeted space gets cooled directly, similar to the way an electric fan will work. The cool air is fully concentrated on the space that the portable AC faces.

Is This The Test Choice?

Portable ACs have a lot of flexibility but will be found lacking in what people mainly require in AC systems, and all the more in unique spaces like attics where there are many other inherent challenges.

The main drawbacks of portable ACs are due to their inability to ensure reliability and temperature support that is consistent. This is because these units have a low capacity for cooling.

A Ductless Mini-Split System Is A Better Option

Ductless mini-split systems are designed for heating and cooling single and multi-room spaces and make for the best option if you want a system that gives you the comfort of consistent temperature that will allow you to enjoy the space inside your renovated attic.

Ductless mini-split systems are compact units that have a compressor unit that is located outside, while you will have one or more air handlers installed inside. The configuration that you will need for your converted attic is a 1:1 mini-split unit, with one compressor and one air handler. The outdoor unit, the compressor, must be matched with the indoor air handler unit.

What Then Is Your Best Option?

This question is best answered if you understand that ductless mini-split systems were designed specifically as innovations to the traditional window or room air conditioners.

Your goal of air conditioning your converted attic is to provide a system that can work efficiently to cool your attic in spite of the unique challenges that the attic space presents. These challenges range from energy loss and the limitations like temperature fluctuations posed normally by ductwork.

Attics can be hot inside during summer and become too cold in winter. When you use the conventional cooling systems this can then become a problem. Use a mini-split system and you will have an HVAC system that can handle both extreme heat and low sub-zero temperatures.

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

Replacing A Houston AC Capacitor: How Much It Cost?

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Knowing The Cost Of Replacing An AC Capacitor In Houston

Capacitors are used for storing energy, they are small and cylindrical in shape. They are used to start a motor by sending a jolt, or multiple jolts that keep the motor running. Capacitors work alongside a compressor and blower motor as well as the outside fan in an air conditioning unit.

If the capacitor in your air conditioning system is weak it can have a negative impact on efficiency and economy resulting in increased energy bills. Not only will a bad capacitor result in poor performance it can also shorten the lifespan on an AC. This is why it’s important to regularly check your capacitor and replace when needed. This helps to reduce energy bills and extend the life of the air conditioning unit.

AC Man Houston | Local HVAC Company | Professional Repair & MaintenanceThe price of replacing your air conditioning capacitor depends largely on the brand and any special features. A ballpark figure can be anywhere between $120 up to $150 or more. As with many things, generic makes are generally cheaper. Some branded units may have a replacement tag of up to $400. This price includes the labor costs involved for part replacement, so if you are able to perform this task yourself correctly and safely you could save some of this cost.

The Cost Of Capacitor Parts

The part alone for many basic capacitors will cost between $35 and around $60, dependant upon the rarity of a specific model. Many standard models will not cost more than $40.

Turbo Capacitors & Dual Run Capacitors

The actual cost of a regular AC capacitor is less than that of a turbo capacitor, but it is usually much better to opt for the latter. Turbo capacitors can be used in most types of AC systems and are designed to cope with higher voltages which helps to protect AC units from fluctuations. Another bonus is that you can adjust the capacity of a turbo capacitor if necessary which helps to prolong the lifespan.

Geographical Location

Labor costs fluctuate from region to region, so this can have an impact on the replacement cost of a capacitor. In cities and other urban areas that have a higher cost of living you may have to pay more for a professional AC technician, although this shouldn’t make a huge difference.

Other AC Repairs

Failing to replace the capacitor in a good time can result in damage to other parts of the AC unit. Loose or burned out wires are a potential problem, and the fan motor may also be in need of attention. These additional repairs may have to be carried out whilst replacing the capacitor.

This is why it’s important to have your Air Conditioning capacitor regularly checked by a professional tradesman, and replaced as soon as is necessary. It will help with efficiency and cost-effectiveness if these additional potential problems are caught quickly enough.

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

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!

An Overview Of How An AC Works In Houston

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Understanding How An Houston AC Works

The basics of how the air conditioner (AC) works is by collecting hot air from the surrounding and then cooling it down before realizing it back into the same space. The AC does this using five installed components, which are:

  • Evaporator
  • Refrigerant
  • Compressor
  • Condenser
  • Expansion valve

How The AC Works

Picture yourself standing outside on a hot summer day, or you are out and about running an errand. The sun feels like it has dropped closer to the earth, and the heat is unbearable. However, you still manage to find some reason to bear it all since you know you will find some reprieve when you get inside your air-conditioned office or home.

You get to the doors and you are hit by a gust of chilled air when you step inside the office or home. It sends every cell in your body in jubilation, making you feel at ease and better than when you wear baking outside under the sun.

The AC brought out the “cooling revolution” that people can never discount. The journey to what we have today may have seemed to have been a long one. But we are thankful for the generations that used fans and other creative methods of cooling their houses on hot days. The current technology does borrow from the old, but it is significantly more effective when it comes to sheer cooling capacity.

But how do the air conditioners function? We shall be looking into this and see how they do it and why they have become a must-have for many urban regions.

Parts Of An Air Conditioner

When it comes to deciding which AC system to install, you will have to pick between two choices; the split systems ACs, and the Window systems ACs. The two options are then subdivided into either the central systems or the mini-split systems.

Irrespective of the installation type you pick, the AC will have four principal components:

1. Evaporator

This is a heat exchanger coil tasked with collecting heat from the surroundings in a room for it to be directed to a liquid refrigerant. The name comes from the fact that it is where the refrigerant absorbs the heat and then released back into the room as a cooled gas.

2. Compressor

As the name suggests, it is where the gaseous refrigerant gets compressed. The compressor is mostly located in an outside unit which is installed on the exteriors of the building.

3. Condenser

The compressed vaporized refrigerant then proceeds to the condenser where it is converted back into liquid state as the compressor expels the heat. The condenser is also located in a unit installed in the exterior of the building. It is a common feature with the split ACs.

4. Expansion Valve

It is also called the throttling device. It is located between two coils, which are the heated coils of the condenser and the cooling coils of the evaporator. The expansion valve is meant to control the flow of the refrigerant to the evaporator.

For the Window ACs, the components mentioned above are fitted in a small metal unit that is fixed in a window opening. The four form the primary features of the air conditioner.

How Do They Work Together?

The AC will draw in hot air from a given area and then processes it to cool it down before releasing it back into the room. It relies on freon (liquid refrigerant) and several coils to generate the chilled air that it pumps into a given space where is it installed.

The average person thinks that the ACs depend on machines installed inside the unit that produces the cold air needed for cooling a room. They believe this is so because of the electricity the air conditioners consume. All that is a misconception; there is no magic to how the air conditioner works. It only relies on a chemical and a few other physical features to do what it does in your home or office.

To enjoy the benefits of having an AC fitted in your office or house, you need to turn it on, set the desired temperature, and then the thermostat in it will read this and help to manage the functions of the AC to achieve the desired room temperature by cooling the room’s air.

By design, the air conditioning system will draw in hot air through a grille installed at the base of the indoor unit. The air is then directed to the coolant liquid via pipes in which the fluid circulates. The refrigerant will absorb the heat and be vaporized. In the same process, the evaporator coils also absorb moisture from the incoming air, and this process dehumidifies the room.

The heated coolant gas is then pushed to the compressor that is fitted in an outside unit where it is compressed. It is a process the increases the gas’ temperature. The then heated gas, which is also highly pressurized travels to the condenser. That is where the vapor then condenses into a liquid.

When the refrigerant reaches the condenser, it is a hot gas that is rapidly cooled to become fluid as the heat is dissipated to the outside through metallic fins. The refrigerant will then proceed from the condenser when it is back in its liquid state. It then flows through the expansion valve that is designed to control the flow of the coolant into the evaporator, which is where the refrigerant started its journey.

That is the same principle in both the Window ACs and the Split ACs though the latter has separate units installed inside and outside the house, while the former is one unit with all these components installed inside.

As the air conditioning system run, it repeats this process over and over until it achieves the desired room temperature. That means that the AC will continuously draw in the warm air and expel chilled air into a given space, thereby cooling the room until the present temperature is attained.

When the ACs were initially developed, they were not intended for human comfort. We have become overly dependent on these devices, but they were originally meant for the publishing companies to help eradicate certain issues in the manufacturing processes. How these machines intended to support the large-scale publishing of papers become an integral part of the modern office and home is another story for another day.

Give us a call or contact AC Man of Houston today with any inquiries!