Category: HVAC Installation

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

Posted by acman on

Important Parts Of An HVAC System In Houston

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

The Heat Exchanger

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

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

The Blower Motor

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

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

The Combustion Chamber

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

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

The Condenser Coil/Compressor Unit

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

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

The Evaporator Coil

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

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

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

The Thermostat

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

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

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

How To Find A Reliable Houston HVAC Contractor?

Posted by acman on

Tips To Hiring An Expert HVAC Contractor in Houston

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

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

1. Choose The One Who Is Knowledgeable & Experienced

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

2. Look For A Reputable Company

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

3. Verify That The Contractor Is Licensed & Certified

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

4. Choose An Affordable Company That Provides Free Quotes

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

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

5. Choose A Reliable Company That You Can Trust

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

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

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

The Qualities Of A Good HVAC Technician In Houston

Posted by acman on

Factors To Consider When Hiring A Houston HVAC Technician

At some point, most homeowners end up requiring the services of a technician who can help in repairing the heating and cooling system in a residence. HVAC technicians usually have the training and experience necessary to install, maintain and repair heating and cooling systems. If you want your installation or repairs to be done properly, you should hire the best technician in the market. It is best to ensure that your technician has the qualifications described in the article below.

They Should Be Experienced

While it is not a must that you wait until you find the most experienced technician, you should ensure that you are dealing with an individual who has a wealth of experience in installing and repairing HVAC systems. Experience is typically gained through apprenticeship or serving a lot of clients. When hiring a company to service your HVAC unit, seek a firm that will provide you with highly experienced technicians.

They Should Have The Right Credentials

It is best that you leave any installation or repair of your HVAC system to a technician who is licensed to offer services in your locality. Licensing usually proves that the technician you are hiring has received the requisite training and they have passed the test on how to properly install and repair HVAC units in accordance to the building codes in your locality. You should also look for an insured technician. With an insured technician, you are usually protected from liability in case the worker is injured during service delivery. Further, should they cause any damages in your property, you are guaranteed to receive compensation. When hiring a HVAC technician, look for a licensed and insured professional.

They Should Be Versatile

Ideally, you should deal with a technician who is highly trained in servicing different types of HVAC units. However, if you own a rare type of HVAC unit, you should seek a professional who has special skills in dealing with the particular system you have in your property.

They Should Have Verifiable References

When looking for a HVAC technician, it is recommended that you first seek word of mouth referrals from reputable sources. If a technician is recommended multiple times by sources that you hold in high regard, you should consider acquiring their services.

If you do not have people that you trust who can refer a technician, ask your prospective HVAC contractor to provide references. You should call all the references provided so as to verify the proficiency of the expert you are about to hire.

They Should Be Affordable

Prior to hiring a HVAC contractor, you should consider their fees for service delivery. However, though you may be looking to save some money, you should not always go for the cheapest contractor. Remember that inexperienced and unskilled professionals may offer cheaper services to attract unsuspecting customers. If you have a job, it is best to ask interested contractors to bid for the available job. On receiving applications, you can then choose an affordable contractor with the right qualifications.

At AC Man Houston, we have been delivering quality HVAC installation and repair services to our clients since 2007. We usually strive to offer tremendous value to our clients while offering exceptional customer service. The founder of our firm has close to two decades of experience in the HVAC industry and is very passionate about meeting and exceeding the expectations of clients. This is something that all technicians in the firm also hold dear. In Houston, we are considered to be the top HVAC experts because of the expertise of all of our technicians and our commitment to offering quality services. On contacting us, we will offer quality products and use our superior technical expertise to ensure that you have the best customer experience.

Give us a call today to speak with a professional, or check our services!

How A Certified Technician Can Help To Install Your HVAC In Houston

Posted by acman on

How A HVAC System Works & Why Certified Houston HVAC Technicians Should Install It

An HVAC system is at the core of a home’s heating and cooling. Enjoying the benefits of such an installation for an extended period is dependent on having a high-quality system in place. That way, your home will have a comfortable indoor setting in the chilly winter months and at the height of the summer.

You have the HVAC in place, but do you understand how it works? If you know this, then you are in a better position to tell when there is a problem with your heating and cooling system that needs immediate attention.

First off, you should be aware of the various heating and cooling distribution system available and how they work. That way, you will have a better understanding of your HVAC.

Forced Air Systems

It generates cold or hot air and pushes it through metal ducts. However, the cold air is forced through one set of the ductwork and the warm air through another based on whether you have the furnace or the AC running. The forced air systems are, however, bedeviled by blowouts. When the systems are near the end of their lifespan, the blowers start to malfunction. In some cases, the blower stops working. The same issues also crop up with their adjuster features.

Gravity Systems

Hot air rises as cold air sinks; that is the premise upon which gravity system operates. And it is this functional design that makes them not an ideal choice when you have an AC system. The gravity systems are installed in the basement with ducts running to the floor and ceiling. Hot air is forced through the floor vents, and as it is also sucked up by the vents in the ceiling as it rises to allow cold air to sink.

Radiant Systems

The radiant systems face the same issues as their gravity counterparts in that they cannot work with ACs. With the radiant systems, you have an installation that heats the walls, floors, and ceiling. In most cases, they will involve the heating of an implement, such as a radiator that then releases the heat that is distributed in the room. But with such a system, the pipes transporting hot water malfunction as they wear and tear over time or due to a build of mineral deposits.

HVAC System Parts & How They Work

The efficient functionality of any HVAC system is subject to having different parts working as they should individually and collectively. Every make may be unique, having special features; however, the differences between their core mechanisms are relatively few. The four main components of any HVAC system are:

1. Furnace – It utilizes oil or natural gas that is in a heat exchanger to heat the air. The furnace also has a component the regulates the heating to achieve the desired temperature. It can be installed in the basement, attic, or in a custom closet space.

2. Air Conditioner – Its primary function is to cool the air, and it is installed outside the house. It has a coolant that is electrically activated to help lower the temperature of the air being pulled in and forced indoors as it also sucks and pushes the hot air outside the house.

3. Ductwork – The ducts are a transit system in which the air flows. Some are where hot air flows while others are through which cold air flows. The ductwork runs throughout the inner area of the home’s structure, so they are not within sight.

4. The Thermostat – It is the brain of the heating and cooling system. The thermostat is what’s used to turn the HVAC on and off as well as to regulate the temperature. It will also be used to control other special features need for the efficient functioning of the HVAC system.

Controls For The HVAC Systems

The thermostat is at the heart of the functionality of your heating and cooling system. It relies on heat sensors that read the current air temperature so that it can manage the heating and cooling of the indoor air.

You will need to input or set the temperature you prefer; this is known as the setpoint. The thermostat will activate the heating or cooling when it notices that the temperature is below or above the setpoint. That means will turn the furnace and the AC on or off, accordingly. All this is dependent on the bimetallic element that expands and contracts based on the temperatures in the house.

The older thermostats have two exposed contacts. As the room cools, the bimetallic element starts bending to touch one contract triggering an electronic connection; it then will make a second one. It is the second contract that then activates the HVAC system to run and start heating or cooling the home.

So how are modern thermostats different? Well, they do not have the exposed contacts, but instead, they have these elements encases in a protective glass chamber. The contacts will uncoil when the temperature is low and will do so and complete the electrical circuit as the temperature keep dropping. To do this, they rely on a steel bar and a series of magnets. The process will trigger the furnace to run, and the exact opposite of the same process is what switches off the furnace.

That is why modern thermostats are way accurate than the previous thermostats. Moreover, they are also more durable since their electrical contacts are not exposed to the elements but protected behind glass.

Bottom-Line

The general outlook of the HVAC system will make you think that you are dealing with some very complicated. Ideally, what you have is an interlinked furnace and an air conditioning system with the two controlled by a thermostat.

You should research before you decide to buy and install a new heating and cooling system in your home. Source quotes from various reputable companies. Also, ensure that you have an expert visit and inspect your home to determine the best installation options for the HVAC system based on the layout of your premises. Keep in mind that the layout of your home will govern how much you will pay for the installation.

Get Unequaled Air Conditioning Maintenance & Repair Services

If you are looking for dependable AC installation, maintenance, and repair services, then call AC Man of Houston. We are a certified company, and we have experienced technicians that understand the specifics of different HVAC systems. We can service all AC makes and models. AC Man of Houston is who to call for a broad range of Home & Office Air Conditioning services apart from window units.

Do not pick contracts that offer quotes that include low-quality equipment. You should consider the level of comfort you need when depending on the HVAC to heat and cool your home. But then again, you also need value for your money even as you try and find the most affordable prices. Get quality products and an unmatched service from us that guarantees you will not experience any indoor air pollution or an HVAC system that start malfunctioning soon after installation.

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