Category: Air Conditioning

Choosing Between A Heat Pump And An Air Conditioner In Houston

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Heat Pump Or Air Conditioner: Which Is Better?

To give it the simplest possible definition, a heat pump is an air conditioner that also has the ability to heat the air it delivers as well as cool it down.

AC Man Houston | Local HVAC Company | Professional Repair & MaintenanceThe benefits of a heat pump start getting interesting when you find yourself in need of a replacement air conditioner or even an all-new HVAC system. Under the right circumstances, a heat pump can replace an air conditioner and even a heating system at the same time. You have to have a clear understanding of your needs and the capabilities of a heat pump before deciding whether or not one’s right for your home.

This article will give you a thorough run-down on the differences between air conditioners and heat pumps and explain the benefits and potential drawbacks of a heat pump.

The Key Differences Between Heat Pumps And Air Conditioners

Heat pumps and air conditioners operate exactly the same way in hot summer months when their job is to cool down an indoors space. They both extract heat from the indoor air and dump it outside the building.

When the weather turns cold, though, the traditional air conditioner’s job is done. In most homes and businesses, air conditioners are teamed up with furnaces or electric heaters to deliver the heat required for keeping indoor spaces comfortable.

A heat pump gets its name from its ability to inject heat into space as well as take it out.

How does a heat pump do this? As we’ve already suggested, it’s capable of running in reverse to put heat into an indoor space instead of taking it out. That means that a heat pump has the ability to gather heat from the outside air, even in cold weather.

That sounds a little crazy, right? Rest assured, the technology is in there to make it all work. While the outdoor air certainly feels chilly in the winter, it still contains plenty of heat energy. Heat pumps are built to scavenge up that heat energy and transfer it into a building.

The Benefits Of The Heat Pump

Heat Pump Operation Is Very Affordable

One of the most common reasons for owners to install a heat pump instead of a traditional air conditioner plus furnace combo is that the heat pump is cheaper to operate. Thanks to outstanding energy efficiency, heat pumps can reduce your utility bills significantly. (Want the technical details on heat pump efficiency? Check out energy.gov’s article on the subject.)

Heat Pumps Have Lower Environmental Impact

A lot of the traditional options for heating a home or business oblige you to burn fossil fuels, like gas or oil. Heat pumps deliver useful heat energy without this reliance on non-renewable resources. While heat pumps still require power, which might be derived from fossil fuels depending on your local energy provider, overall they are much more environmentally-friendly tools for heating an indoor space.

A Simpler System Means Easier Maintenance And Repairs

When you use a heat pump to provide both heating and cooling, you have a significantly simpler system to take care of. Maintenance is faster and cheaper on a heat pump than a combination system. It’s also easier to diagnose heating and cooling problems. This simplicity translates into overall savings on operational and maintenance costs.

Heat Pumps Are Compact

Relying on a single system for both heating and cooling saves you space as well as money. The lower space requirements of heat pumps make them particularly popular in urban environments where every square foot is precious.

The Potential Drawbacks Of Heat Pumps

Heat Pump Efficiency Has Its Limits

The biggest limitation that holds heat pumps back is the unavoidable fact that they become less efficient the colder the weather gets.

Check our very basic description of heat pump operation above. It heats an indoor space by pulling heat energy from the outdoor air. The colder that the air is, the harder the heat pump has to work to produce the heat you’re looking for. The cost of operating a heat pump can rise significantly if it has to deal with very low temperatures for long periods of time.

Supplemental Heating May Be Required

While heat pump efficiency is improving all the time, they have not yet become viable all-year, all-climate sources for indoor heating. In regions where temperatures drop below freezing and stay there for a long time, you may have to make alternate arrangements to ensure that your home or business remains comfortable in the coldest months.

This applies particularly to home and business owners in the Northeast. It is common in these sorts of climates to add a backup heat source (like a furnace or central electric heater)to a heat pump. This adds to the overall cost of your HVAC system.

Heat Pump Vs. Air Conditioner: The Cost

The initial cost of equipment and installation is higher for a heat pump than an air conditioner. The difference between the two can run into the multiple thousands of dollars.

If your climate makes it feasible to use a heat pump for all of your heating and cooling needs, though, you may end up saving money by ditching the heating components of your system.

TIP FOR COMMERCIAL HEAT PUMPS

Up to the end of 2018, you have the opportunity to save big on a heat pump installation. A special tax rule allows you to deduct the full cost of heat pump equipment and installation from your 2018 tax return. Previously, tax incentives only allowed you to depreciate the cost of a heat pump across the equipment’s lifespan.

The net effect? You get a big tax break up front instead of a smaller one delivered over time.

Additional Guidance

Choosing a heat pump instead of a traditional air conditioner is a big step. It’ll have an impact on your home or business for many years, so seeking out expert guidance is a good idea. Talk to us when you need an HVAC replacement or upgrade! We’ll carefully review your specific needs and make sure you get the best equipment (at the best price!) to meet them.

Call us now if you have any questions on what you should choose!

Houston HVAC and Home Automation: Smart Thermostat and Speaker Capabilities Part 3

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Guide to Home Automation Device And HVAC Compatibility Part III

Thermostat By Idevices
  • Capability with many smart speakers: Amazon Echo or other speakers using Alexa, as well as Google Home, or Apple Homekit
  • No learning capabilities
  • Main Features: You can control the thermostat when you are away from home using your phone and the app
  • Group settings for many different devices with a single command. Say something like “bedtime” to turn off lights and change the thermostat.
Insteon Smart Thermostat model 2441TH
  • Smart Speaker Compatibility: includes working with Amazon Echo, and Alexa devices (it requires Insteon Hub)
  • No learning capabilities – but can be programmed for 7 full days.
  • Main Features: Has an app to let you control it using your phone while away from the house
Lennox’s Icomfort E30
  • Smart Speaker Compatibility: includes working with Amazon Echo, Alexa devices, and the Apple Homekit
  • Learning Capability allows it to be programmed once and then adapts to any changes in your routine
  • Main Features: Will start fan when pollen levels are detected and are high
  • Has a remote control app so you adjust thermostat on-the-go
  • Uses a geofencing tracking sensor to let the thermostat know when you are close to home. Adjusts temperature to your desired setting.
  • Sets alert for the temperature, humidity, or for service issues.
  • Tells you when to change filters
Nest’s Learning Thermostat
  • Smart Speaker Capabilities allows it to work with Amazon Echo, Alexa devices, Google Home, and IFTTT
  • Has learning capabilities
  • Main Features: Gives you energy reports
  • Works with an app on your phone as a remote control
  • Provides alerts for the temperature, humidity, and service issues.
  • Tells you when it’s time to change filters.
Radio Thermostat 7 Day Programmable Thermostat CT 50 or CT80
  • Smart Speaker works with Google Home
  • No Learning Capabilities but can be set for a full 7-day schedule
  • Other Features: Use the app with it as a remote control
  • Uses geofencing location tracking so that your device knows when you are going home and sets your thermostat for you.
Venstar Colortouch T7900 Thermostat
  • Smart Speaker Compatibility works with Amazon Echo and Alexa devices
  • Learning Capabilities: None but can be set for a 365-day schedule
  • MORE FEATURES: The app works as a remote control
  • If your HVAC has a humidifier, use it to control humidity
Venstar’s Residential Explorer
  • Smart Speaker Compatibilities will work when you buy the Wi-Fi module on Amazon Echo and Alexa devices
  • No learning capabilities but can be programmed for 7 days
  • Other Capabilities: App works as a remote control

Setup A Smart Speaker

Smart thermostats usually communicate with smart speakers using a set of skills. Every brand of a smart speaker has its own set of skills which you can read about online. To connect the devices, simply download a skill or enable it. The choice depends on the brand you choose. When you set up the thermostat you learn the phrase that will allow you to control the thermostat with the speaker.

In a short time, you will be controlling the comfort of your home by speaking a simple phrase or command!

Call or contact us today with any questions that you might have. To start over on this article, visit here.

Houston HVAC and Home Automation: Smart Thermostat and Speaker Capabilities Part 2

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Guide to Home Automation Device, Home Control systems and HVAC Compatibility Part II

ECOBEE 4
  • Smart Speaker Compatible – Yes! This smart thermostat is not just fully Alexa-compatible, it has a built-in speaker and is capable of functioning as an Alexa hub right out of the box. It’s also compatible with Apple Homekit, Samsung SmartThings, Google Home, Wink, and IFTTT.
  • Learning Capability – The Ecobee 4 starts with a preset schedule. Over time, it assesses how long your specific equipment takes to reach temperature targets and adjusts itself accordingly. (aka Adaptive Recovery)
  • Other Features – The Ecobee 4 can respond to voice commands (thanks to its built-in Alexa functionality) without the need for any additional smart appliances. The thermostat is compatible with individual-room thermometers (sold separately) and can adjust its settings based on which rooms are and are not occupied. The Ecobee 4 creates energy usage reports. It also comes with a remote-control app so you can adjust it from anywhere.
EMERSON SENSI
  • Smart Speaker Compatible – Yes! This thermostat works with Alexa devices, Wink, and Google Home. Some Sensi models (Sensi WiFi and Sensi Touch WiFi) are compatible with Apple Homekit.
  • Learning Capability – None. The Sensi accepts a completely customizable 7-day program, though.
  • Other Features – Connects to HVAC equipment without a C-wire, allowing compatibility with older heating & cooling systems. The Sensi has a remote-control app available. The Sensi offers Geofencing location tracking to sense your approach and adjust your home’s temperature before you arrive.
JOHNSON CONTROLS GLAS SMART THERMOSTAT
  • Smart Speaker Compatible? – Yes! The Glas has a built-in hub and speaker that use Microsoft Cortana. The thermostat also works with Amazon Echo/Alexa and Google Home.
  • Learning Capability -The thermostat gathers preference information by asking questions during the setup process.
  • Other Features – The Glas monitors air quality in your home. It has a remote control app. The thermostat also has a cutting-edge transparent OLED control panel.
HIVE HEATING AND COOLING PACK
  • Smart Speaker Compatible? – Yes! Works with Google Home and Amazon Alexa devices.
  • Learning Capability – None. But its schedule can be programmed
  • Other Features – Comes with a remote-control app. The thermostat can be purchased separately or with a Hive Hub. The Hub is required for tying in other devices and controlling them (including the thermostat) through the app.
HONEYWELL SMART COLOR 7-DAY PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTAT
  • Smart Speaker Compatible? – Yes! Works with Google Home, Amazon Echo/Alexa devices, and IFTTT.
  • Learning Capability – Yes! The thermostat will learn how long your system requires to reach set temperatures and adjust its programming accordingly. (aka Adaptive Recovery)
  • Other Features – The thermostat creates energy use reports. It can be controlled remotely with its app. You can also set alerts for equipment issues, temperature, and humidity. The thermostat even tracks filter life and lets you know when it’s time to replace!
HONEYWELL WIFI 7-DAY PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTAT
  • Smart Speaker Compatible? – Yes! Works with Apple Homekit, Google Home, and Amazon Echo/Alexa.
  • Learning Capability – None. The thermostat does accept 7-day schedule programming.
  • Other Features – Can be controlled remotely using the appropriate app.
HONEYWELL LYRIC (T5)
  • Smart Speaker Compatible? – Yes! Works with Amazon Echo/Alexa, Apple Homekit, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings.
  • Learning Capability – Yes! The thermostat learns how long your HVAC system needs to achieve set temperatures and adjusts its settings accordingly. (aka Adaptive Recovery)
  • Other Features – The thermostat features geo-fencing capability – it can tell when you’re on your way home and make suitable changes to your home’s temperature. It can be controlled remotely via an app. The thermostat has alerts for temperature extremes and tracks filter life.

To continue on with the rest of this article, visit here. Call or contact us today with any questions that you might have.

Houston HVAC and Home Automation: Smart Thermostat and Speaker Capabilities Part 1

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Guide to Home Automation Device And HVAC Compatibility Part I

Are you searching for a smart speaker to get for your house? In order to maximize your investment, it is essential to choose one that will work with smart devices you already own, including your home’s HVAC smart thermostat.

Also, if you have a smart speaker already, like Amazon Echo (and Alexa) or Google Home, you may want to consider getting upgraded to a smart thermostat so that you can use simple voice commands to adjust the comfort settings. For individuals who don’t want to have to stop what they are doing in order to make adjustments to their home comfort settings, this is the ultimate luxury. The problem is, it isn’t an easy task to determine which smart speaker devices work with which thermostats. It also can be very time consuming and confusing.

This is why we have compiled this guide on home automation and HVAC. You will find useful information on the leading smart thermostats along with whether they are compatible or not with the smart speakers that are the most popular. If you are wondering how smart thermostats and smart speakers work together along with what you are going to need to connect the devices, at the end we will describe this process.

Important: As a smart speaker and thermostat manufacturers continue to introduce new features and models, compatibility might change. The information contained in the guide is for helping you save time by narrowing your options down. You always need to confirm compatibility (between smart speakers and thermostats as well as between HVAC systems and thermostats) with device manufacturers prior to buying anything. You might be able to get advice from your residential HVAC provider.

Compatibility of Smart Speakers with Smart Thermostats

Are you wondering which smart thermostats work with Apple Home Kit, Amazon Echo, and Alexa, or Google Home? Use our chart to find the models that are compatible.

Smart Thermostats: Key Features and Compatibility

Carrier Cor TP-WEM01-A WiFi Thermostat
  • Compatibility With Smart Speakers: Apple Homekit, Amazon Echo (and other Alexa devices)
  • Learning Capabilities: None, but may be programmed on a 7-day schedule
  • Other Features to Note (Similar to the Bryant Housewise, given that the same manufacturer makes both brands)
  • Controls humidity settings (using compatible HVAC equipment)
  • Monthly energy reports are generated
  • An app is available for the remote control (which allows you to control it while you are away from home)
  • Alerts are created for service issues, humidity, temperature, and it even alerts you when you need to change the filters on your system.
Ecobee 3 Lite
  • Compatibility of Smart Speakers: Apple Homekit, Amazon Echo (and other Alexa devices), Google Home, Wink, IFTTT, Samsung Smart Things, Cortana
  • Learning Capabilities: A preset schedule comes with it, and then it learns the amount of time it takes for the HVAC system to get to the set temperature and then adjusts automatically (adaptive recovery)
  • Other Features To Note
  • Room-specific temperature sensors are optional, and even can detect which of your rooms are currently occupies and make the proper adjustments
  • A C-wire is not required to connect with HVAC equipment – so it might work with HVAC systems that are older
  • Energy reports are generated
  • An app is available for remote control (allows you to control it while you are away from home)

To continue on with the rest of this article, visit here. Call or contact us today with any questions that you might have.

Houston HVAC Expert Explains Ductless HVAC

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Dispelling Myths Of Ductless HVAC Technology

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

The Most Well-Known Myths About Ductless HVAC Units

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

Final Words

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

 

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

Five Tips On How To Hire The Best HVAC Contractor

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How To Locate And Hire A Reputable And Reliable HVAC Contractor

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

Experience and Licensing

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

Ask For Referrals and References

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

House Evaluation

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

Branding

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

Fair Pricing and Versatility

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

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

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!

Replace Your Air Filters With Proper Houston HVAC Maintenance

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AC Filter Replacing With AC Man Of Houston

Even though it looks like a pointless work, changing your home’s air filter regularly is the alpha of saving money and helping protect your family to stay healthy. However, the million-dollar question is, when should you go for a new filter? Well, below are some factors to consider before making the switch.

Types of Filters

Filters differ from one another in many ways and this is a fact. The difference depends on your air conditioning unit (e.g. Is it located outside or inside). At the same time, expensive filters have been made of quality and durable materials. Furthermore, they apply the latest filtration technology. Therefore, if you purchase a cheaper filter, you will save money, but ion the short-term. HEPA (High-efficiency Particulate Air) filters which are recognized by different Environmental Protection Agencies are the best option. They have been certified to remove at least 99.97% of harmful particles in the air.

Seasonal Factors

Weather can affect the performance of your AC unit. An air conditioner is highly used during warm months (summer) and it is during warm months when pollen and other air pollutants overload the filter. At the same time, moisture causes seals to damage, which leads to leakage of cool air. HVAC professionals advice to people is to cover their outdoor unit during the winter season to protect it from the weather.

Home Residents

The frequency at which you should change your AC filter is affected by everyone in that home. What does this mean? Well, it simply means that your family and the level of comfort they need affects the number of times you will change your AC’s filter. For example, if you or any other person in your family has allergies, then you are forced to change the air filter frequently.

A person with allergies will defiantly feel better if they have few symptoms. Moreover, if you have a pet in your home, you are required to change the air filter regularly.

Houston HVAC Efficiency

Changing an air filter is the beginning of saving money. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a person can reduce the energy used by an air conditioner up 10% if they replaced their air filters regularly. This does help reduce the cost of the electric bill. Changing the air filter does also help improve airflow, which makes the AC run efficiently and properly. Remember, replacing air filters is much less compared to replacing the whole unit.

HVAC Services in Houston

We take pride in our services and always looking to meet our customer’s satisfaction level, timeline, and improve their experience. AC Man of Houston is the place to go for all your AC problems and services. call us today for consultation and scheduling. You can also call us to know more about our heating and cooling services.

Contact us now for more information or visit our blog for more related articles.

Consult Our Houston HVAC Experts On How To Seal Leaks In Your Home

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Sealing Air Leaks Around Your Home – HVAC Repair In Houston

Leaks are a clear indicator that the pipes in your home are faulty or worn out. Most homeowners are well aware of the losses a leaky sink can cost them in terms of expensive repairs and high water bills. Air leaks are also equally destructive but unfortunately, many homeowners do not treat them with the same seriousness and urgency. When air leaks are left unresolved for a long period of time, they can result in a sharp increase in power bills as well as reduced weather insulation in your home. You can take charge of your energy consumption by identifying and repairing any and all air leaks in your home. The tips below should help you achieve this.

What Are Air Leaks?

Closely identical to pipe leaks, air leaks are specific areas where your home’s warmed or cooled air escapes to the outside world. When this happens, energy is lost in the process of regulating the air that escapes and also from your system working harder to keep your home’s indoor temperature ideal. Your energy bills inevitably go up. Air leaks are common in thin walls facing the outdoors or along ductwork and piping in the inside walls of your home. When looking for air leaks, it is important to carefully scrutinize the following areas:

  • Garage doors and walls
  • Fireplace walls and chimneys
  • Attic walls
  • Piping and duct shafts
  • Recessed lighting
  • Outdoor-facing walls in the common areas
  • Exterior doors and windows
  • Walls situated between attached units or extensions

Your local HVAC technician can help you to assess these and many other areas for possible air leaks in your home.

How Can I Stop Air Leaks From Affecting My Power Bills?

Older homes and homes built on a tight schedule may not be properly constructed or equipped with the quality materials needed to mitigate air leaks. As years go by, the weather and caulking stripping on your home’s weakest points can gradually wither and decompose causing exposure of air vents to outdoor elements. Luckily, there is a solution to this problem known as resealing. Resealing your home is a fast, reliable and affordable way of fixing air leaks. A professional HVAC technician can help you to repair any existing leaks as well reapply a lasting weather and caulking stripping to your home.

If you want to be fully certain that your home is able to maintain the temperature you choose, there are numerous upgrades you can make to ensure the air inside your home stays in and the air outside remains out. Replacing your exterior-facing doors and windows with more energy-efficient options can enable your HVAC system to work less and therefore run longer. You should also ensure that you have pliable sealing thresholds along all door bottoms.

In homes with fireplace flues, kitchen fans or dryer vents, installing coverings for all these fixtures is important to prevent air from escaping to the outdoors.

Save Money on Your Power Bills By Seeking Help From AC Man of Houston

Energy and power bills are probably one of the biggest cost a homeowner has to incur on a monthly basis. You shouldn’t allow air leaks to force your energy bills to get out of hand. Take action today to ensure that your home is properly outfitted, caulked and sealed with energy-efficient doors and windows.

Residents of Houston can get help with air leaks by calling AC Man of Houston. We specialize in top-notch energy-efficiency services. We are more than willing to help you out so don’t shy away from contacting us or calling today!

Should I Cover My Air Conditioner?

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Do Air Conditioners Need To Be Covered During The Winter?

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

Covers Provide Protection Against Outside Elements

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

Protect Your Houston AC From Bad Weather

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

1. Dirt In The AC

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

2. Ice Or Snow In Your AC

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

3. AC Water Damage

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

4. Small Creatures

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

To Cover Or Not To Cover?

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

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