Category: HVAC Replacement

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.

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

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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.

A Complete Guide To Find A Qualified HVAC Contractor In Houston

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Tips For Finding Houston HVAC Contractor

You’ll have to hire an HVAC contractor when you need your HVAC system repaired, replaced or looked at. A professional is someone who is licensed to work on HVAC equipment in homes and commercial properties. HVAC contractors should be properly insured, trained and they should maintain any certifications that comply with HVAC organizations and procedures.

Contractors should have additional qualifications if required according to local laws. With that said, you don’t want to choose just any old contractor. Here are a few tips to find and hire the right professional.

1. Ask For Referrals

When you ask for referrals, ask about why they hired an HVAC contractor. This will give you a good idea if the contractor they used can help you out. If you find it difficult to get referrals, then check out a few local business directories and read a few reviews.

2. Licenses & Certificates Matter

Next, you want to choose an HVAC contractor that is properly licensed. Whatever state you live in will determine what licenses and certificates they should have. Your local area will determine it too.

If you’re not sure what contractors should have, then contact a local government office and ask them. Another thing you can do is check a contractor’s website out and see who licensed them, and then check out that licensing agency. Furthermore, make sure their license is up to date and not expired.

While you’re at it, ask for copies of their certificates or licenses. Do they have worker’s compensation, too? Make sure to find this out because if they injure themselves on your property, then worker’s comp should cover them.

3. Insurance

Are the contractors you’re researching insured? They should be. Trust us when we say this will protect you and them.

4. Good Rating

Determine if the HVAC contractor has a good rating. They should only have a low volume of complaints too. Thankfully, there are several ways to do this.

Visit a website that contains a wealth of info and you can find out if there are any complaints lodged against the HVAC contractors you’re researching. This will help you with your decision.

5. Ask For References

Ask HVAC contractors for references. You can take things further by researching your contractor. Check to see what kind of feedback they’ve received, but make sure you use sites that verify their reviews.

6. Do They Inspect

Another thing you want to do is find a contractor who will inspect your system before providing you with a quote. If they inspect your system, they should be checking for air leaks, inspect the insulation and measure airflow to name a few. The inspection should be thorough.

7. Obtain Bids

Contact several contractors and receive bids from them. You want to find out how much they charge and what kind of value you’ll receive if you were to hire one of them. A contractor may charge high rates, but their quality of work may be superior to many other HVAC professionals. This means the costs are justified.

8. Write Out A Contract

Finally, you want to make sure the contractor will provide you with a written contract. If not, they should write out what they will do for you. There are many details you’ll want to learn about.

Some of the top details include the dates the work will be done on and how much you’ll pay in total. Equipment that will be installed or repaired should be noted too. The more information that is written out in a contract, the better.

Call or contact AC Man of Houston today with any questions that you might have!

How To Save On Houston Air Conditioning By Keeping Things Chill

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Top 15 Ways To Keep Your Home Cool With No Air Conditioning In Houston

Warmer months can be particularly hot making you want to sit close to the fan or crank the AC up. While the trick may work, it isn’t the most convenient way to keep your house cool. Turning the AC up only leads to increased energy consumption hence higher electricity bills. Outlined below are a few ways you can keep your home cool and comfortable without air conditioning.

1. Keep blinds closed.

While it may seem like nothing, keeping your blinds closed helps block excess heat from entering your home. Opening the windows and doors equates to around 30% of heat gain in your house, Family Handyman. Keeping these closed and using shades, curtains, and blinds can help keep your home cooler for longer, thus saving you at least 7% in energy bills. Keeping blinds closed prevents the greenhouse effect, a typical case in west and south facing windows.

2. Use blackout curtains.

Blackout curtains create an extra layer of insulation around your windows by blocking direct sunlight. Consider investing in neutral-colored curtains with white plastic backings for better results. According to Consumer Reports, this helps reduce heat gain by up to 33%.

3. Keep your doors closed.

Any entries that aren’t in use, especially access doors, should be kept closed at all times. This helps prevent hot air from getting in the house, as well as prevent fresh air from escaping. You can, however, open these doors in the evening when the air outside is cooler. This should help keep the house fresh and cool.

4. Switch the fans on.

The AC isn’t particularly efficient when the weather is too hot. Fans, however, help keep the air around you in motion, thus giving you a faux sea breeze. You can even hack the fan by placing a bowl of ice in front of the fan facing you. You will be surprised at the extra-chilled air being blown your way through the ice bowl.

5. Swap sheets.

Changing your sheets often helps keep the room fresh, and is healthy for you as well. Swapping the current sheets with those that promote cooling should help keep you comfortable while asleep. While flannel sheets and fleece blankets are good for insulation, cotton sheets are a better option. This is because cotton breathes easier and stays cooler than any other material. You might also want to add one or two buckwheat pillows for extra comfort and cooling.

6. Set The Ceiling Fan To Anti-Clockwise Rotation.

Some people believe the ceiling fan only rotates in one direction. What they don’t know is that it can turn in all directions. The direction of the fan needs to be changed seasonally for improved efficiency. Setting the fan to turn anticlockwise creates a wind-chill breeze that helps cool your home.

7. Lower your body temperature, not the houses.

Air conditioning units were a fantasy several decades ago, and yet our ancestors still survived. Doing it their way by drinking lots of water, and especially iced drinks will keep you cool for several hours. You can also apply a cold cloth on your neck and wrist to drive the temperature down even farther. You might also have to change to lighter clothing as well. Dipping your feet in a bowl of cold water should help lower your body temperature as well.

8. Turn on bathroom and exhaust fans.

Exhaust and bathroom fans are designed to pull hot air out of the house. Turning them on will help get rid of the hot air paving the way for a cool breeze.

9. Heat-proof your bed.

Use a cool chillow as a pillow when you go to bed. Keep your feet cool by placing a bottle filled with cold water at the foot of the bed. If this doesn’t seem to work well, dampen your sheets by popping them in the freezer, and only take them out when you go to bed. This should help keep you cool for some time.

10. Sleep low.

According to science, hot air rises. That said, sleeping low might help keep you cool through the night. One way to do this is by sleeping on the couch downstairs, or even in the basement. If this isn’t enough, put the mattress on the floor. Sleeping on the floor should help keep you cool and comfortable throughout the night.

11. Open the windows at night.

Despite the hot weather during the day, summer nights are particularly cool and chilly. You can, therefore, take advantage of the chilly air outside to cool your house. One way to do this is by opening the windows to let fresh air in. The fresh air should push hot air out too. You can take this a notch higher by using a fan to force the cool air in. Simply place the fan close to the window to help force fresh air in the house. Remember to close the windows and blinds first thing when you wake up.

12. Play around with the windows.

Did you know you can hack into your windows to create a cooling pressure current? To do this, open the top section of windows downstairs, then open windows the bottom part of the windows upstairs. Use a fan to push hot air through the upper windows. This effect can be amplified by hanging a wet sheet in front of the window, like a curtain.

13. Switch to CFL and LED lights.

Most households use incandescent bulbs for lighting. These bulbs not only waste energy but also release heat making your home warmer than it should. Replacing these with LED or CFL bulbs should however take care of the heat gain. LED and CFLs use up only a fraction of the energy hence lower electricity bills. Making the switch will also help keep your home cooler.

14. Do your grilling outside.

Many of us use the oven or stove for grilling. This only leaves your home hotter than it was. The last thing you want to do under the hot summer sun is turning on the oven. Consider grilling outside or in the backyard. It is much safer there.

15. Take on long-term improvements.

There are many ways of ensuring your home is cool and comfortable. Taking on long-term home improvements to make your home energy efficient will go a long way in avoiding the AC route. Simple things such as installing window films, planting vines and trees around the house, and adding awning near windows and other openings should help reduce heat gain in the house. These also absorb heat inside the house leaving it more comfortable than it was.

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

What Is The Life Span Of Your Houston Air Conditioning Unit?

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How Long Does an AC Unit Last In Houston Texas?

Is your air conditioner giving you signs that it is about to quit? If so, you may be wondering if it has lived a full life or not. The average life expectancy of a central air unit is about 15 years. If the unit is well maintained it can last for 20 years.

To keep an air conditioner running well it has to be maintained. This involves a few simple steps. Get it tuned up once a year, change the filter out and keep the outside condensing units free of debris, dirt or leaves.

Another factor that determines the lifespan of your AC is where you live. An AC unit in Texas, for instance, will run about 24 hours every day. An AC unit in Indiana, however, only runs for a season. When an AC runs often it undergoes a lot of wear and tear. Even if you keep it maintained it will still fail a lot sooner than a unit that only runs once a season. If you live near an ocean, the salt air will rust the AC’s components out and cause it to fail soon. Never point sprinklers at the unit. This can also cause rusting to occur which is another way an AC unit can fail faster.

You know the saying that “you get what you pay for” is true. Keep it in mind whenever you buy an air conditioner. Buying an HVAC system is a significant expense. Do your research carefully. Make certain that you work with an experienced HVAC technician to determine which system is best for you.

You want the HVAC to last. So, you need to be sure to get a product that is built to last and get it from someone from a quality team. Ignore any company that sends a salesperson out while wearing an HVAC tech’s outfit. It’s a gimmick! At AC Man, we treat you with respect and do so without any gimmicks. Both the salesmen and technicians work to sell and service equipment fairly. They go over all your options in detail.

If your AC unit goes kaput – stay cool! Remain calm and collected – AC Man is here to help!

We are the first choice for Houston AC service and AC repair in Katy, TX as well as the Greater Houston area. You have choices when it comes to your heating and cooling service. We know that. This is why we go out of our way for our residential and commercial clients. We can service and repair all types of AC units from all top makers.

Our technicians are professional, courteous and knowledgeable. They will provide you with a detailed estimate that you approve before the work even begins. When the summer heat hits hard, you need your AC to be working optimally. Having a fully functioning AC unit is essential and it can be a true lifesaver. Do not get caught with an air conditioner that is on its last legs.

Our Highly Rated Air Conditioning Repair Services

Come to AC Man in Houston for complete and reliable air conditioning repairs. Our top-notch technicians can help you with every one of your AC needs including maintenance and repair, or replacements and routine servicing. We take care of all makes and models of air conditioners. Depend on us for a huge selection of central AC systems. We are proud to be one of the few companies around that have certification.

We are the best of the best. So many others just will not pass this test. If you have received quotes for low-quality AC units, consult with us. Your home must be a comfortable, safe place that offers plenty of space for your family to rest and relax. Do not let indoor air pollution spoil it. Did you know that indoor air pollution is one of the top five environmental dangers?

Give us a call today for more information or you can visit our blog for more related articles.

Helpful Tips For When You’re Looking To Replace Your Houston HVAC System

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3 Quick Tips To Keep In Mind When Replacing Your HVAC System In Houston

AC Man Houston | Local HVAC Company | Professional Repair & MaintenanceWhile there are several factors you need to consider when choosing an HVAC system, the process is not that complicated. What matters is picking the right HVAC because such an investment is not one that you will make regularly. As such, you should be familiar with what’s available in the market, the efficiencies of the different HVAC, their maintenance or repair demands, and price ranges.

We always emphasize on the need to call us and schedule an appointment for your heating and cooling systems to be examined by an expert. But even before you do this, you need to be aware of a few things that you should do so that make an informed choice when discussing with our technicians. It is more fun and way better to be informed before you handle matters or topics you are less conversant with.

1. Review the HVAC system types.

Some of the HVAC systems available include the duct-free split system, geothermal systems, split systems, and the hybrid heat split systems among others. Go over there to know as much as you can about them and be in a position to make an informed choice. You can also review the videos you find to have some practical knowledge or the workings of the HVAC systems.

When armed with such data, you will be in a position to have a lively and informed discussion with the HVAC technician about various issues such as the SEER rating, heat pumps, geothermal systems, and the recommended tonnage.

2. Make the smart choice, consider a smart thermostat

Most of the electrical tech available today is automated, and now is the best time to consider investing in the latest HVAC systems. It is about time that you automated the operations of heating and cooling in your home or office. Gone are the days of having to stand around as you click on buttons trying to program HVAC systems and having to reset them.

With the latest tech, you not only have it easy, but you also get to save money and energy. If what you have in your home is yesterday’s technology that is not yet obsolete, it soon will be, and there is no need to wait until such a time. Make the right investment today and start saving energy, time, and money. Moreover, the current HVAC looks amazing and will be an addition to your home or office that will impress all that you welcome.

3. Maintenance plans are worth the money.

Would you buy that dream car and fail to check and change the oil or have it serviced? If not, then the same applies to your new HVAC. We know that some of the “specialists” out there will not be quick to recommend maintenance plans. Such a move would only see you planning to have a system starts to malfunction and stop working no sooner than it has been installed.

Do not be fooled into believing that maintenance agreements are self-serving for the HVAC experts. Such plans are customer-serving, designed to keep your HVAC units running smoothly. For us, they make work easier when we come to inspect the system and show that we are the guys to call for matters related to heating and cooling systems.

Find out more by visiting some related articles on our blog. Contact us or give us a call today for more information.