Category: Air Conditioning Repair

HVAC 101: The AC Evaporator

Posted by acman on October 3, 2017

Understanding Houston HVAC Parts- Evaporator

This blog series is devoted to exploring and describing the parts and functions making up your air conditioning system. This will help you get a better understanding of how these components work together and will help you take good care of your HVAC system and prevent the need for Houston TX HVAC repair.

This blog looks at the air conditioner’s evaporator. Here are some related Articles:

Understanding HVAC Parts in Houston – The Condenser
How An Expansion Valve Works

What An Evaporator Does

The evaporator is located in the top of the system unit and is comprised of coils. This is the case for most air conditioners, but not all. Refrigerant will goe from the condenser to the evaporator in its cooled, liquid state.

Once the refrigerant is there, it meets with low pressure. This low pressure turns the refrigerant into a gas. The gas then absorbs heat from the air. It is the absorption of heat that cools your home’s inside. Once this process is complete, the gas goes back tot he condenser and it happens all over again.

Why The Evaporator Is Important

Without an evaporator, the air conditioner would not cool the air in your house. When the evaporator turns the refrigerant into gas, it allows the refrigerant to do its job of getting hot air out of your house.

Maintain Your Evaporator

Your evaporator works hard to keep your home cool. This is why it is important to maintain it. The first step is to keep the coils clean. If they are not clean they trap dirt and block the absorption of heat. Coils should be kept clean even during winter. Moisture on the evaporator can freeze causing it to perform inefficiently.

If you ever notice a change in the way your air conditioner cools your house, get in touch with an HVAC expert at AC Man Houston or you can call us now for immediate assistance. We will schedule an appointment for either a repair or maintenance to keep your home as comfortable as it needs to be.

Understanding HVAC Parts in Houston – The Condenser

Posted by acman on October 3, 2017

Whether summer is well underway or you merely live in a warm climate, you probably have your air conditioner on more often than not. (That’s especially true in the Houston area!) Unfortunately, it’s easy to take an amazing machine like an AC for granted. We tend to act as if they’ll always turn on without a hitch, but all of the intricate inner workings are prone to developing several problems over time. For instance, just take the all-important condenser into consideration.

How An HVAC Expansion Valve Works

What Does An Air Conditioner Condenser Do?

AC Man Houston | Houston AC Repair As your HVAC system chugs along in an effort to cool down the air in your home, it actually absorbs the heat within the room and then releases it outside. This ever-important action relies largely upon the condenser. The part of the unit facing or located outdoors generally hosts this part so that it can dispose of the absorbed heat properly.

As liquids are turned into gases, there’s a natural degree of heat absorption. On a scientific level, this is precisely what’s going on as your air conditioner works to cool you down. It also has liquid refrigerant that works in tandem with an evaporator to take the heat away. Once this happens, the liquid can turn into a gas. The room can’t be cooled without the absorbed heat being released, however. That’s precisely where the condenser comes into play.

As the gas form of the refrigerant is put under a specific amount of pressure, the heat can then be released outdoors. The refrigerant then turns back into a liquid. It all sounds quite complicated, but the basic premise is quite simple, and a well-kept HVAC system can handle the job without issue.

General Condenser Maintenance

As alluded to earlier, the inner workings of an air conditioner are quite intricate, and one part relies on the next for the entire system to remain in working order. Some of the essential parts are the fans, coils, motor, tubes, and so on. After repeated use and years of wear and tear, these parts can break down. The condenser, of course, is no exception.

If you want to keep this from happening, be sure to clean it on a fairly regular basis. Otherwise, debris from the elements outside will build up quite easily. Cleanup is as simple as spraying the part with a water hose, so there’s no excuse to let it slip by.

You should also do your best to cut down on the amount of debris that might come into contact with the condenser. This means cleaning your yard regularly as well. Make sure to remove any leaves, loose grass, and stray limbs that might be nearby.

If you take good care of your condenser and you notice it’s still having a hard time, it’s likely time to consult a professional. AC Man Houston is proud to provide you with the best AC repair in Houston TX. Feel free to get in touch as soon as possible and an appointment can be arranged to see precisely what can be done to keep your AC in tip-top form. Call today!

Knowing When Your AC Filter Should Be Replaced

Posted by acman on September 21, 2017

What You Should Know About Your Air Filter

Whether it’s an AC system in your home or car, the chances are you’ve had to change the air filter. Air filters trap dust and other types of allergens from circulating in the air of your home. If you live in Houston, then you know how hot it gets and the last thing you want is to breathe in such things. With that said, let’s discuss how air filters work and how you can keep them working for a longtime to come.

How They Work

Air filters do a lot of things. Most filters sit right between a cardboard frame and they were made with spun fiberglass. Filters play a role in keeping your air clean because it filters the dirty air that your HVAC unit brings in.

Particles such as animal fur, dust, pollen, bacteria and mold spores become trap by the fiberglass material. However, you do need to change it regularly. Doing this will ensure the air stays as clean as possible and free of particles such as the ones previously mentioned.

Maintaining Your Air Filter

Allergens and other particles will make their way into your home if an air filter is dirty. Not only that, but free air flow from your HVAC system may become restricted. This can increase energy bills due to the unit not working as efficiently as it should be working.

All you have to do is replace the filter or clean it. Don’t forget to check the filter once per month so you can either clean or change it. As a general rule of thumb, you should see light pass through the filter if you hold it up to a light.

Air Filter Issues

There are various issues that can be due to a clogged air filter. Your unit may not be working as good as it did in the best or the evaporator coils may be frozen. These things can be due to a filter that has to be changed.

It’s important that you understand your HVAC equipment. This can help you figure out what issues your unit has early on, which can save you money. If you need HVAC repair, Houston residents can rely on AC Man Houston. Contact us today or call AC Man Houston with any questions you have about your HVAC system.

How To Address Your Leaky HVAC Unit

Posted by acman on September 13, 2017

Why is Your Air Conditioner Leaking Water

If you notice that your air conditioner is leaking water then there could be several potential explanations for this and you should definitely get in touch with AC Man Houston. Whatever it turns out to be the cause, it’s a good idea to call in a technician to give you a proper diagnostic on the system. Commercial and residential A/C can leak for a number of different reasons:

1. A clogged condensate drain.

The condensate drain collects water and helps to transport it clear of the unit. If the drain is clogged up, then the A/C may leak in an unexpected area. Rust, algae, and dirt can build up in and around the drain.

2. The ambient temperature is too cold for A/C to be running.

Running the A/C when the air temperature is below 60 degrees can make the evaporator coils ice over, so try not to use your air conditioning in cold weather.

3. The drain line has mistakenly been disconnected.

Drain lines can sometimes work loose, or be accidentally disconnected during routine maintenance. If the line comes completely loose, then this could cause the air conditioning unit to leak.

4. The condensate pump has been broken.

A broken condensate pump cannot remove the excess water from the condenser pan, so the pan will overflow, which could eventually cause a leak.

5. The refrigerant level has become depleted.

A lack of sufficient refrigerant could cause the A/C coils to freeze, which will then lead to an overflow from the drip pan, and a leak.

6. Dirty air filters.

If the air filter gets too dirty, then this will restrict air flow to the evaporator coils, so they will not be properly ventilated. Eventually, the coils will get too cold and could become frozen. When the ice starts to melt off the coils, this will flow into the drip pan and may eventually lead to the pan overflowing and leaking.

A small amount of condensation from an A/C unit is normal, and the more you run the A/C the more condensation you are likely to experience. Excess water should not be a problem, though – if you see huge amounts of condensation or if there is a clear leak that you cannot explain, then you should call a technician right away. Or if you are in need of other services, such as heater maintenance in Houston you can contact AC Man Houston by visiting here!

How To Maintain Your Indoor Air Quality

Posted by acman on September 13, 2017

The Importance Of Keeping Pollutants Out To Maintain Better Indoor Air Quality

Outdoor air pollution is important, too, but approximately 90 percent of people’s days are spent indoors. People forget about indoor air pollution and air quality. Considering how much time people spend inside, indoor air quality concerns need to be addressed appropriately.

In fact, a study done by the EPA showed that the indoor air pollution levels in homes could be quite often up to five times worse than outdoor pollution. You have to ask yourself why. Then the study also showed that sometimes the pollution indoors could be 100 times worse. That is a staggering statistic, and remember, that’s from a study conducted by the EPA.

Three Types Of Pollutants

Particles are one type of pollutant in your home. Any type of construction or cleaning can, of course, stir them up even more. It makes you realize that when you clean, you really need to get to everything and do it right. You don’t want to be breathing in harmful particles.

Chemicals are also indoor air pollutants, and they can at times be quite harmful. Smoke from tobacco products falls into this category, and you know cleaning supplies make the list. It makes you remember that there are all natural cleaning solutions like essential oils that might be much better to use.

The third group of indoor air pollutants is biological contaminants. Pet dander is part of this classification of pollutants, as are viruses and bacteria of course and more. Cleaning is naturally important when it comes to biological contaminants. A property also needs to be ventilated properly.

Health And Air Quality Indoors

Health conditions can stem from bad indoor air quality, and it’s important to know what some of the symptoms are. For example, allergic reactions can occur, and people can experience shortness of breath. Common symptoms like sneezing and coughing are also on the list. There are plenty of other associated symptoms, too.

It is important to focus on prevention measures when it comes to the quality of the air inside your home. For instance, air filters always need to be changed out on time, which is typically after three months.

It is also suggested to have air ducts cleaned approximately every five years by a local HVAC company. Humidity levels are also important to monitor, and you might want to think about getting an air purifier or dehumidifier.

Whether you need your ducts cleaned, maintenance done, or you have a problem that needs to be repaired, AC Man Houston can help. They will get your home in shape when it comes to better indoor air quality. For residential HVAC repair in Houston, call AC Man Houston or contact us today.

The Affects Heavy Rainfall Has On Your AC Unit

Posted by acman on August 31, 2017

HVAC Maintenance in Houston – What Rain Can Do to Your AC

When the rainy season hits, flowers and allergies are in full bloom. More rainfall can spell trouble for your outdoor air conditioning system. You might be worried what damage the rains can do to your AC, but luckily most owners will have no real reason to be concerned.

Rain and a Heating/Cooling System

Every air conditioner is made up of electrical parts. When these parts get exposed to the elements every day, they continue to function. This is because AC systems have been designed to hold up to all kinds of weather even heavy rains. Most of the delicate, electric components are sealed under a metal housing which keeps them safe. During most normal rainstorms, homeowners will not have to worry about the AC getting damaged.

What About Floods?

Outdoor AC systems can hold up to rainwater but floods are different. AC systems cannot be protected by their housings from any amount of flood waters even if only exposed to them for a few hours. Floods that go above 15 inches are a major concern. Storms that are accompanied by high winds can also potentially be a concern because the debris kicked up by the winds can harm the AC unit.

What to Do

If you can cover your AC unit before a heavy rain, this will shield it from the wind and shallow flood waters. Make sure the cover is made of a breathable material that will fit your AC’s housing. Plastic or tarp should be avoided because condensation can occur when they are placed over the AC. This allows mildew to grow. Covering your AC is not required, but it is recommended.

For more answers to your AC questions, or to schedule maintenance on your unit, give the AC Man in Houston a call or contact AC Man today. See what we can do for you!

Six Helpful Allergy Reducing Tips and Hints

Posted by acman on August 31, 2017

Learn 6 Tips You Can Use To Reduce Your Allergies And Sniffles

Warmer weather is really nice, but it also messes things up for the estimated 50 million Americans with allergies.

There’s not honestly much you can do regarding the weather, but a number of steps can be taken to reduce any allergens inside.

Keep reading to learn 6 helpful and handy hints for reducing the allergens in your home.

Pick the proper air filter

The air filter is something your home relies on for the purification of your home’s air, but not changing it regularly or getting a cheap one actually compromises that same air quality. If you’re seriously concerned about allergies, then you should choose a filter that has a high MERV rating. Also, consider changing it monthly for the best possible air quality.

Close the windows

Having them open is awesome on a nice day, but it also lets pollens and various allergens in that settle across your home, especially furniture.

Manage any dust

You need to dust routinely and prevent dust circulation from fans during the entire allergy season. Dust is able to circulate through your home and then settle practically anywhere. Do not neglect your vents!

Clear up debris

It’s possible for debris that settles around an outdoor unit to actually get pulled into your home and trigger allergies. Be sure that both your outdoor and indoor units are completely free of dust, leaves, and other forms of debris.

Think about an air purifier

Air purifiers can honestly get expensive, but they’re often worth it if all your other efforts are not controlling allergens to your satisfaction. You can get smaller models for a single room, or larger ones for the whole home. BetterAir is a good place to look for a purifier.

Get your air ducts professionally cleaned

A professional-caliber cleaning job goes quite a ways when it’s allergy season. When your air ducts are cleaned, then it means that the allergens present are eliminated, leaving any newly circulated air in a much more healthy state.

If you suffer from ailments like seasonal allergies, or you just want to be certain that your home’s air conditioning system and unit are prepared for the warmest months of the year, then you need AC maintenance in Houston. Call us if you need such services, as we offer both maintenance and repair services that suit your needs and budget. Schedule an appointment right away.

How To Keep Bad Weather From Affecting Your HVAC System

Posted by acman on August 22, 2017

AC Man Houston Saves You The Cost of Replacing Your AC Due To Weather With These Tips

The Houston area is well known for its severe weather throughout the year. Proper preparation is essential. That not only means stocking in emergency supplies but also taking steps to safeguard your home’s HVAC system.

Bad weather can really do a number on your HVAC system if it isn’t properly protected. Try using these three tips to minimize the likelihood of any weather-related damage occurring:

Make sure loose items are put away or tied down. Severe weather often brings gusty winds along with it. If the wind is strong enough, it can wind up blowing objects into your outside condenser unit, causing damage as a result. In severe cases, it can even blow your entire condenser unit over. By securing any loose objects before bad weather hits, you can reduce the risk of damage.
Protect the condenser unit with a cover. The simple act of covering the outside portion of your air conditioning system with an approved cover can go a long way toward protecting it from the weather. This is especially important during periods of heavy rain or flooding.
Protect your unit from hail. Hailstones can cause significant damage once they get over a certain size. A hail guard can go a long way toward protecting your condenser unit from being damaged by these stones.

After a severe weather event, you should thoroughly inspect your HVAC system to check for any signs of problems. Begin by double checking that all of the wires are still properly connected. Loose wiring or other electrical problems can be extremely dangerous after a storm.

If you notice any problems, contact a Houston AC repairman right away. They can come to your home and inspect your unit, looking for any problems that need to be corrected. By working with a skilled HVAC specialist, you can make sure that your system is in great shape and that there are no problems that need to be corrected after an extreme weather event.

Call now for more information!

When To Know You Are In Need Of AC Services In Houston

Posted by acman on August 22, 2017 with 1 Comment

You Might Need Houston AC Repair Services When Your AC Is Making Sounds That Tell You Something Is Wrong

You might not feel like you have any clue how to make sure your air conditioner is running well, but just listening to it can often prove a quick and reliable way of knowing there’s a potential issue going on. Humming or rattling noises could be indications of something being amiss.

When you familiarize yourself with the normal sounds, you can identify the unusual ones that might mean your AC unit is trying to tell you something. Here are a few of the most common ones you should pay attention to and do something about:

Gurgling And Bubbling

Sounds that seem like gurgling or bubbling is typically a compressor leaking refrigerant, and that might mean the AC is not working with the efficiency that it should be. A refrigerant leak doesn’t just run up your power bill, as it’s also toxic to the environment. If you hear gurgling or bubbling sounds, then you should get them investigated promptly.

Buzzing

A buzzing sound could indicate that an electrical component of the unit has a short. A professional should investigate this sooner rather than later, given that a short is always a risk of starting an electrical fire if it is not corrected.

Metallic Sounds

These kinds of sounds range from clanks to rattles and might even be grinding noises. This usually means that mechanical parts inside the air conditioner either need replacement or they’re malfunctioning. When left unchecked, a metallic sound has the potential to wind up being far more serious, as well as a more expensive, situation down the road.

Wailing

When your air conditioning unit is wailing, then it might be a fan belt that is faulty. Replacing the belt completely, reattaching an existing belt, and lubricant are common solutions to this issue.

If you happen to notice that your air conditioner is making noises that sound strange and you need Houston AC repair services or just a look, then call us so our technicians can figure out what’s going on. We service both commercial and residential properties and systems, and we can handle everything from routine maintenance to installations and repairs. Schedule a visit with us right away.

It’s critical to get such things looked at as quickly as you can. If you need Houston AC repair services, call us right away or contact us here for a consultation or quote.

Cool Off! You Have AC Man Houston To Save The Day!

Posted by acman on August 8, 2017

Get The A/C Relief You Crave

There is no better time for cooking outdoors than the summer. Unfortunately, the oppressive heat of summer can take a toll on your air conditioner’s cooling capabilities. To make sure your air conditioner performs to the best of its abilities during summer, you must protect it from potential heat damage.

If you live in the Houston Texas area, AC Man Houston techs have the expert knowledge necessary to keep your air conditioner protected. These air conditioning chefs have developed industry tested AC recipes for ensuring your home remains cool and comfortable during the heat of summer. With AC Man Houston in your corner, your home will remain a cool and pleasant getaway destination all summer.

Preparing Your System

AC Man Houston | AC Maintenance in Houston Texas Your air conditioner works hard day and night to accommodate your desire for a chilly environment. This constant stress can eventually take a toll on your AC system. Eventually, your system may begin to cool less and less.

If you live in Texas, you know how hot it gets during the summer and how unbearable it would be if you didn’t have air conditioning. When this happens, it’s time to call a Houston residential HVAC repair company like AC Man Houston who can handle the job quickly and reliably so you will suffer for as little as possible in the Texas heat. To make sure your air conditioning system continues to cool correctly, be sure to follow our secret cooling recipe without skipping a step. That means you should have your A/C system installed by a professional, be sure parts are functioning properly and are up-to-date, and last but not least, take care of any issues that come up immediately.

A few things to keep an eye on that could indicate your air conditioner needs repair are:

Failing to operate
Not cooling properly
Unexpected drips or leaks
Unusual sounds and noises

Keep your home’s environment a cozy one by making sure your air conditioner is working its best.

Chow Down On Awesome Service

Small problems can eventually grow into bigger problems, so for best results, you should address issues as they arise, no matter how minor you may believe they are. Otherwise, what was a simple issue to resolve could grow into a more complex and more expensive issue that may lead to cooling problems during the hottest part of summer. So be sure to keep an eye on how your system is performing and address any issues that come up as soon as possible.

If you live in Texas, you’re one of the lucky ones. AC Man Houston has professional HVAC technicians who can handle AC repair jobs in Texas quickly, efficiently, and reliably. Our technicians have the experience and education necessary to do the job in a way that makes quite an impression on our customers. With AC Man Houston, you can expect a job well done.

Give the Houston residential HVAC repair company you can rely on a call.

Just because your air conditioner needs repairing doesn’t mean it has to be a pain to go through. We make solving your problem as quick and painless as possible and we do it with a smile. Contact AC Man or call us today so we can help you with your HVAC problem/s right away!