Tag: Best Ac Repair Houston Tx

A Guide On How To Prevent Failure Of Your Houston AC Compressor

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8 AC Compressor Failure Causes That Can Be Prevented In Houston

There many issues that can cause your air conditioning system to break down. Fortunately, not all of the fixes are expensive. The problem might be a loose wire that has caused your air conditioner to experience a power failure. Or your air filter might be clogged that is impeding air flow into your air conditioning system.

However, if your AC compressor failure causes the system to breakdown, then that is a major AC emergency service issue and a huge expense that you will be forced to deal with. The compressor is an expensive and critical component, and when it breaks down you might find yourself spending a lot of money on a new air conditioning unit.

Fortunately, up to 80 percent of AC compressor failure causes can be prevented if the problems that lead up to the failure are fixed in a timely fashion. During the regular AC preventative maintenance process, those problems can be discovered and eliminated.

What Is The Compressor?

The compressor on your air conditioner is frequently considered to the heart of the entire system. There are a couple of different reasons why it is a good analogy:

The compressor is one of the critical components that the system cannot function without.

Usually, it is very reliable, and if it did fail before the expected life span (10-15 years), it most likely will be due to an underlying cause that frequently could have been prevented.

If it does fail, it will be expensive and at times will be impossible to repair.

Just as your heart pumps blood throughout your body, the job of the compressor is to compress the refrigerant gas and then pump it throughout the system so it removes humidity as well as heat out of the air.

So now you see why it is so crucial to maintain your compressor in great condition. Now let’s take a closer look at some of the main things that may cause AC compressor failure and steps you can take to avoid them.

Issues That Cause The Failure Of The AC Compressor

When the AC compressor does fail, it frequently occurs based on an underlying problem that places stress on your system. There are two reasons why this is important to know:

By discovering the repairing of the underlying cause, it can help you prevent the failure of your AC compressor.

If a failed compressor is replaced without repairing the underlying cause, then your new compressor will also likely fail.

There are two common issues that can cause your AC compressor to fail:

1. Dirty Coils

Whenever grime, mineral scales, and dust build up onto the condenser coil, then the air conditioner will not be able to expel a sufficient amount of heat from the system and will be forced to constantly run in an attempt to cool down your home. The increased temperature and pressure may cause your compressor to overheat and then fail eventually.

2. Blocked Suction Lines

Whenever the refrigerant lines on your air conditioner become damaged or blocked, the first thing that you will notice is the unit is not cooling your home as effectively as it used to be. If you don’t fix the problem, then the increased temperature and pressure will once again cause it to overheat and the AC compressor will fail.

3. Low Refrigerant Charge

If the refrigerant lines on your system develop cracks or holes, the air conditioner will leak refrigerant. Soon the level will become so low the compressor is forced to work harder in order to pump a sufficient amount of refrigerant through its system in order to cool down your home. The strain will cause your compressor to break down eventually.

4. Incorrect Size Of The Suction Line

If leaks develop in the refrigerant line it will need to be replaced, and be sure to have the job done by an experienced AC technician. A line that is too small or too large for your system it may cause your AC compressor to fail prematurely.

5. Too Much Refrigerant

If an individual who is less-than-qualified works on your air conditioning system and mistakenly adds the wrong type or too much refrigerant, then it could be a fatal mistake for your compressor.

6. Electrical problems

When an electrical failure occurs that may result in acid builds up that may cause extensive damage to other parts along with the compressor. If you do have a failed compressor on your hands, be sure your technician tests to see if these acids are present. If they are discovered, the damage has been caused throughout the system by an electrical burnout that probably is not worth the money to fix it.

However, electrical problems are frequently preventable when your system is inspected by an experienced technician. He will be able to detect and repair damaged contractors, fuses, and wiring before your system breaks down and causes the AC compressor to fail.

7. Contaminants Inside Your System

The oil and refrigerant circulate throughout the refrigeration loop while the compression is operating. Over time, it can become contaminated with rust due to metal particles, desiccant, and moisture due to a failed compressor. Those impurities will travel along with the mixture of the refrigerant oil and settle through the system.

If a new compressor is put into a refrigerant system that is dirty, the new compressor will end up sucking in loose contaminant particles and will fail rather quickly. Inspect the expansion devices and oil for signs of foreign particles or grit.

8. Inadequate Oil Lubricant

To take our heart analogy one step further, consider the oil lubricant in your air conditioner as the blood inside of your body. If that is not enough, then the system will not work correctly and all types of problems may result, which include the AC compressor failing. When your system is maintained on a regular basis by a trained AC professional, this problem can be prevented by him checking the oil pump’s condition and lubricant levels.

Provide Your Compressor With AC Preventative Maintenance

If you care for your compressor properly, it will do a good job with the air in your home by providing you with reliable, consistent cool. This means your air conditioning system should be serviced twice a year at minimum, by an experienced, knowledgeable technician such as AC Man Houston. Then you will know they have the necessary expertise to detect and prevent problems that may cause your AC compressor to fail.

Were you aware that you can get the best deal on your AC preventative maintenance if you invest in an annual service contract? That will also provide you with a maintenance plan that is specifically designed for your budget and needs. Would you like to learn more? Check out our free guide. For dependable AC repair service call on AC Man of Houston and let our experts assist you with all of your AC repair, replacement, and maintenance service need. We can service all makes and models of air conditioning systems, You can rely on us for a wide range of air conditioning services other than window units. We are one of the very companies that are certified. We are one of the very best around!

Contact us now or call us today for more information!

Houston AC Unit That Is Frozen: How To Solve This Problem?

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How To Repair An AC Unit That Is Frozen In Houston

Of course, you would like your air conditioner to keep your home cool, but what happens if there is a malfunction and your air conditioner freezes up?

Although it might seem counter-intuitive for an air conditioning system to freeze when it is operated during the hottest weather, it can happen and does occur every year to many unprepared homeowners. On a very hot day, a frozen air conditioner might leave you and your entire house very uncomfortable.

Has Your Air Conditioner Frozen Up?

The very first sign that there might be ice buildup in your air conditioner can be when your system is not reaching your desired thermostat setting. You might notice it in the upstairs part of your house more quickly. If the air conditioning system is not properly cooling your home, put your hand over a supply register to see if you feel any air coming out of it. If the air is warm instead of cool, turn the system off and open up the evaporator’s access panel (for the evaporator’s location, check the manufacturer’s system diagram). If you notice there are frozen ac coils, or if any of the panels or equipment are encased in ice, your system’s refrigeration might have dropped under 32 degrees, which can result in a frozen AC.

What To Do When Your Air Conditioner Freezes?

Quite often, you can defrost the AC unit on your own. If you think there is a frozen evaporator coil you should not run the air conditioner since that can place strain on the compressor and cause it to become damaged and burn out. Locate the electrical breaker box and then turn the switch off that controls the power on your air conditioner to get the thawing process started on the coils. The process can take as long as 24 hours. You also can just turn the system off and turn the blower on to help thaw out the evaporator coils. Or you can just turn the system off and turn on the blower to help thaw out the evaporator coils. It is better to not attempt to clear away the ice by hand since that can end up damaging the components. After the coils and condenser have thawed, any standing water should be removed that might have pooled around the AC equipment.

Once the system has thawed out, the coils will need to be dried. If you haven’t turned the system’s blower on yet, restore the system’s power if necessary, and set the control on the thermostat to operate the fan or blower only. That will help to circulate air throughout the coils and system. You also might be able to speed the process up by using a hair dryer that is set on low. Just be careful to not use high heat or get too close to the unit’s coils with the hairdryer since that could potentially end up cracking them.

How Do You Repair A Frozen Air Conditioner?

There are a number of different things that can cause a frozen air conditioner and might require the expertise and experience of a qualified HVAC technician to repair them, but there are some things you can try to do on your own first.

1. Check Out The Vent Filters

Examine the vent filters to find out if they are clogged. That can restrict air flow. An air conditioning system may freeze due to a dirty filter. If the filter looks discolored or dirty, change them and then seek if that solves the problem.

2. Inspect The Fins and Coils

You also can inspect the cooling fins and coils around the evaporator to find out if they are dirty and need to be cleaned. If they use, gently remove any debris or dust using a soft brush. Check to see if all of your home’s supply registers are open in every room. Blocked registers might restrict air flow and that can affect the temperature of the evaporator and cause issues.

3. Check The Coolant Levels

If the coolant is low that can also affect the cooling efficiency and pressure of the AC system, which can cause the unit to freeze. At your local home improvement store, you can buy a coolant installation kit to check the refrigerant levels on your system and correct the levels. Call a professional HVAC technician if you suspect that your system has a refrigerant leak.

4. Reset The Power

After you take the proper steps to thaw out and correct the frozen ac unit, conduct a test to see if it once again cooling properly. If you have shut off the breaker, restore the power and turn down the thermostat to cool. After a couple of minutes, you should start feeling the cool air blowing out of the vents. If the system cycle for a really long without reaching your desired temperature or the air is warm still, there might be additional damage to your unit or you might have a refrigerant leak, then you will need to contact a qualified HVAC technician for assistance.

How Can You Prevent Future Frozen AC Lines?

Although a frozen ac might be caused by damaged equipment or malfunctions, some issues can be avoided by proper maintenance. Keep your evaporator coils clean, since dirty coils may restrict the airflow across them. Your system’s air filters should be replaced on a regular basis. Most manufacturers recommend that you change the air filters every three months at least. However, you might have to change them more often if you have pets. Set reminders on your computer or phone to remind yourself to change the air filters, or link your air filter changes with other regular home maintenance tasks. When you buy filters, purchase several at the same time so you have extra ones on hand to change them. Keep your air supply registers open to have good air circulation and flow, and then have your HVAC professional show you where the refrigerant lines are located on the system so you can check them on a regular basis to ensure they are not bent or blocked.

It is also good to keep shrubbery and trees trimmed away from your outside equipment in order to avoid leaves, twigs, and branches from getting into the system and cause problems. Consider getting your HVAC equipment serviced and inspected every year by an experienced technician who can assist you in making sure your system is properly maintained and might be able to troubleshoot any potential problems.

Keep in mind that, along with helping to avoid problems such as frozen systems, providing your air conditioning system with proper maintenance can also help to ensure that your unit runs efficiently, and that can help to reduce your cooling costs. If you discover that your system needs to be repaired, AC Man Houston can help to protect your budget from the costs that are associated with getting your AC unit back on track and operating properly once again.

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

What You Do When Your AC Breaks Down In Houston

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Your Guide To Knowing When Your Houston AC Unit Needs Maintenance

What do Houstonians fear the most? It is their air conditioner breaking down! And there is a good reason for this! Losing the refreshing coolness can be brutal when humidity and temperatures are in the 90’s or higher. However, air conditioners do break down, and then they do, you have to be fully prepared. The two major kinds of AC outages are your AC dying due to a mechanical problem or age or because your electricity has gone out.

What To Do Whenever Your AC Breaks Down & Your Electricity Is Out?

Assuming that your house was cool when your AC broke down, you should do the following:

Darken Your House By Closing All Of The Blinds Or Curtains.

You will ideally have blackout curtains on the window to help with blocking out the heat from the sun. If not, then cover up windows as best as possible.

Leave Your Windows Closed As Long As You Can.

If you have cool air inside of your house already, but you can bet that it is less humid compared to outside. For as long as possible, keep your windows shut and blinds drawn. Depending on how long you are without electricity, you might need to eventually open them. However, keep the drier air that is inside your house as long as you possibly can.

Rinse A Sheet Or Towel Out In Cold Water And Then Put It Over Yourself As You Are Sleeping.

Wear cotton. Put on the loosest, coolest cotton clothes that you own. Cool down as fast as you can. If you feel really hot, cool your pulse points down using ice or cold water. Those points include behind the knees, ankles, elbows, groin, neck, and wrists. Just be sure you don’t leave your freezer open for a long time. You want all of your frozen foods to last for as long as possible.

Keep Away From Everybody.

That sounds very antisocial. However, you will be a lot cooler if you are not sleeping or sitting next to someone. Besides need, there is a reason, the people have slept together in the same bd before there was central heating – which was to generate heat. So keep your distance, if you would like to stay cool.

Stay Hydrated.

That means you need to drink plenty of water. There are other adult beverages and liquid that are not hydrated. Whenever you are hot, you end up losing a lot of hydration from sweating. It needs to be replenished.

Sleep On Your Floor.

There are file floors on many houses in Houston. Although it is not comfortable, it is cool and tiles do not retain heat the way a mattress does. Keep in mind that hot air rises. Stay on your first floor, if you have a second one. When it is time to go to bed, think about sleeping on your floor instead of the top bunk. That is one time your kids won’t be arguing about who should sleep on top.

Take Off Your Socks & Shoes.

Keep all of your pulse points free of any warm and tight clothing.

Eat Cold Foods.

Especially since they are melting anyway in your freeze. Take the ice cream and popsicles out and enjoy them while you still can.

Open Your Windows.

You will eventually have to open your windows if the outage does last long enough. Get as much cross ventilation as you can when you do this. However, if your house faces the west or south, and it is in the middle of the afternoon unless there is a refreshing breeze that is blowing through, it is usually best to keep your front windows covered up. The sun will warm your house a lot more efficient than the breeze can cool it down.

Go someplace where there is electricity or go swimming.

Outages are often localized. Just because there is no power in your neighborhood, the AC at the library or mall across town might be working just fine. During the hottest part of the day, find someplace to cool off, like a local Houston pool.

From hurricanes to car crashes to blown transformers to unexpected lightning storms, those who live in Houston seem like they lose electricity several times per life at least. This is why it is so important having the following items handy.

  • Bottled water. If possible, store it in a dark, cool place (64 ounces for each member of your household. That will get you through the day. Also make sure you have water for your pets.)
  • Battery-operated fans
  • Clean towels
  • Flashlights
  • Battery-operated weather radio to stay current on weather conditions.

One last note on the Houston area’s bad weather. There are some unexpected outages. However, when there is a storm, the power can go out any time. Make sure your phone stay charged. Allow your battery to go down to 10% means if the electricity goes out then your phone will die right away.

You will lose your phone power eventually, but if it is fully charged when the power goes out, it will last much longer. That is important since you can keep informed on when the electricity is going to be restored.

What To Do When Your AC Dies Or It Needs to Be Replaced?

If your air conditioner dies due to age or a mechanical issue, here at AC Man of Houston is here to help and has 24-hour AC technicians on call. So how can you tell if your air conditioning unit is about to die? Typically, there are signs that will clue you in.

The Temperature Varies From One Room To The Next

Whenever you can detect a noticeable difference in temperature by simply walking into a different room, then your air conditioner will start to lose its ability to evenly distribute cool throughout your house. The air filters might be clogged or dirty, but it also can signal that the motor on the AC unit is not as efficient and is set to die.

The AC Is Very Noisy

If the AC unit in your house is very noisy, then most likely it is working harder than it is supposed to be to keep cold air circulating all through your house. AC units that are about to die with frequently make a squealing or clanging sound whenever they are running. That might mean the compressor is about to die, the ban blades have worn out, or there are some loose parts inside of the unit. No matter what the reason is for your air conditioner is so loud, there is a high chance it is about to die.

The AC Will Not Turn Off

If your air conditioner continues to run, but your home is not getting very cool, then the motor on the unit might be becoming overworked and is about to break down. That can signal that there is a refrigerant leak or problem with the compressor. Also, the system might get clogged with dirt that is blowing inside, and that might be causing the AC unit to not be as efficient as it should be. If the temperature inside your home is not getting as cool as the temperature that is set on your thermostat, then you might need to replace your air conditioner.

The Air Inside Your Home Is Dusty And Dry

Another symptom of a dying air condition is it not being able to filter impurities like carbon monoxide, mold, and dust out of the air. That might not only be a sign that your air conditioner is dying, but might affect your health as well. If you have a dry throat or notice an unusually high amount of dust on the furniture, you definitely should have your air conditioner looked at by an AC technician as soon as you can.

The AC Unit Needs To Be Repaired Frequently

If your air conditioner has to be repaired frequently, then investing in a new one is probably a good idea. At some point, it won’t be worth it to keep paying for repairs, and your AC technician can inform you whether or not you need to get a new AC unit.

The AC Unit Is Old

If you have an air conditioner that is over 12 years old, then it might be time to get it replaced. However, run time is a lot more important than the age of the unit. That is especially true in Houston, where a majority of air conditioners run all year long. The bottom line is you need to monitor your AC unit’s condition, so you would be surprised if it breaks down.

Do You Need A New AC Unit?

At some point where the AC unit will finally die a natural death. Therefore, you need to be prepared to replace it, especially during those long dog days of summer in Houston. Our highly experienced and trained technicians will inform you of what your options are. If you do need to get a new air conditioner, then AC Man of Houston has affordable financing options available for you.

Air Conditioning Maintenance Services

There are trained Comfort Specialists on our staff who are here to help you achieve a comfortable home with colling services – from superior equipment, design, installation, maintenance, and customer service. AC Man of Houston will assist you with improving your home’s efficiency by providing you with prompt and precise service. AC Man of Houston technicians can service all brands. We are one of the most trustworthy air conditioning repair companies in Houston. The commitment of our staff to customers and our expertise is what sets us apart in our field and in the Houston area. Combined with our quality products and technical services, we guarantee to provide the best customer service experience to you.

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

Most Common Problems With Your Houston AC

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How To Solve The Most Common AC Problems In Houston

In Houston air conditioning is an absolute necessity, and life can be miserable if your air conditioner breaks down. Repairs can be expensive, so it is very important to ensure that your air conditioner is in optimal shape through regular maintenance. It is a good idea to always be aware of some of the most common problems that can occur with your air conditioner.

10 Of The Most Common Air Conditioning Problems & How To Solve Them

Filter

One common reason why air conditioners do not work correctly is a dirty or clogged filter. Follow the recommendations of the manufacturer to find out how frequently to change the air filter on your air conditioner. Some are once a month, others are every three months, and others are reusable and need to be cleaned whenever they get dirty. One way of determining whether a filter should be cleaned or not is to check to see if there is any light passing through it. If you can’t, then it is time for you to clean it. Not only do dirty filters reduce air flow but may cause the air conditioner unit to freeze as well.

Thermostat

Another thing that is easy to fix is to ensure your thermostat (which controls your home’s temperature setting) is turn on, that it is clean inside, that it is level, that sunlight is not affecting it, and it is on the proper setting. If the problems still persist, then there might be another problem.

Refrigerant Leaks

Whenever the coolant starts to leak in your air conditioner, then the unit will not perform properly, and the temperature is going to fluctuate. The leak’s location with affect how much the repair costs so it is recommended that you have a trained AC technician examine your unit every year.

Drainage

The drain line, like the filer, can become clogged with lint, dust, and dirt. If it does become clogged, then the drain pan will start filling up, and water is going to leak out which can potentially cause damage to the air conditioning unit or whatever is surrounding your pan.

Fuses Or Breakers

The fuses and breakers protect the AC unit’s compressor or motor from overheating. Whenever a motor dies, quite often one of the first parts checked by the HVAC technician is the breaker.

Capacitors

If there were no capacitors, then the motor powering the fans and compressor will not work. A jolt is sent by the start capacitor to activate the motor and the run capacitor sends out a series of jolts in order to keep the motor operating. If either one burns out the AC unit will not run efficiently.

Compressor

Energy is applied to the refrigerant by the compressor and propels it throughout the coils in order for heat exchange to be carried out. If the compressor does not work, then the AC until cannot cool your home. The compressor will start running hot and seize eventually if there isn’t enough refrigerant. If there is too much refrigerant then it will return back into the compressor, and that may cause the compressor to fail.

Evaporator Coils

Heat in the air is absorbed by the evaporator coils and send it back into the house in the form of cold air via air ducts. Evaporator coils can become corroded. However, if they are inside, then typically they will only need maintenance once every three years or so.

Condenser Coils

These coils are on the outside along with the compressor. Therefore, they can get dirty from the element. Usually, you can use a water hose to clean them one per year. However, if they become too dirty, you will need to get an HVAC technician to use a chemical cleaner to get them clean.

Worn Contactor

AC units have contractors for the condenser fan motor, the blower motor, and the compressor. These contractors make electrical connections that start the compressor and motor. If the contractor has pitting and arcing on it, then it becomes hard for the motors to be started by the electrical current.

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.

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.

Tips On Maintaining Your Air Conditioning Unit In Houston

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Maintain Your Houston Air Conditioner For Better Results

In many areas, an air conditioner is really an absolute necessity, and that doesn’t even dive into the idea of how much AC really affects the quality of life. However, an air conditioner isn’t magic, it’s a machine, and that means it needs proper maintenance to keep it up and running at full efficiency. This means paying special attention to the coils, fins, and filters in an air conditioner. If you don’t pay attention to these, then over time the air conditioner will steadily lose power and effectiveness.

Don’t Forget The Filters!

This is one of the most frequent, and important, tasks that will fall to you to make sure your air conditioning unit is running at full capacity. Filters get dirty over time and with a lot of use, and that means not only does the air not get as cold, but the air conditioner works harder to push that air through. Add in the fact that not changing filters can eventually result in dirt, dust, and other things getting through to the coils and that can cause bigger issues with other parts of the air conditioner.

Pay attention to how often air filters need to be changed and make sure to change them out on a regular basis. They aren’t expensive and changing out a dirty filter can help increase an AC unit’s efficiency a full 15% or more in some circumstances. That’s nothing to sneeze at.

Air Conditioner Coils

There are a couple of coils that need attention. There are the condenser coils and evaporator coils. Both can collect dirt and other airborne debris. A clean filter is a great way to prevent more dirt from gathering. At the same time, making sure to keep the coils clean is important. Reducing airflow isn’t good for the air conditioner. The good news is that these coils don’t need to be checked up as often as filters.

Generally speaking, you want to look at cleaning the coils once a year. This will normally be enough, and keeping all the coils clean is important to prevent additional heat from building up within the system. You want heat absorbed where it is supposed to be, but the other parts of the unit to cool air that is brought in without bringing in a lot of other dirt and gunk.

Maintaining The Coil Fins

Generally speaking, the fins that are found on both types of coils are made with aluminum. This means that they can be fairly easily bent and when that happens airflow can be partially blocked. This is why you will want a “fin comb” which is a pretty common tool available in most handyman type stores. Using these fins will allow you to comb them back to their original pristine condition which will maximize the cool air flow.

Check The Condensate Drains

The biggest concern with drains is if they get clogged. If this happens, then the air conditioner is going to have a tough time reducing humidity. It only takes a stiff wire to run through the drain channels to see if there are any clogs and then clear them out. Clearing these out will help the air conditioner work at full speed once again.

Check The Seal

If you’re using a window unit as opposed to centralized air then you will want to check the seal around the unit before each summer to make sure that it is solid and will keep hot air out so the air conditioner’s cold air can be more effectively contained inside.

Talking To A Professional

Sometimes you will need a professional technician to check on things. The technician will have the skill and tools to check on refrigerant levels, see if there are any leaks, take care of any necessary repairs, measure air flow, and make sure your unit is fully back up to snuff and working at full capacity. There are many small issues that can affect the overall effectiveness of the air conditioner that only a fully trained and certified technician can figure out so if you’ve gone through all the basic maintenance steps and still can’t figure out what’s wrong then it’s time to call a professional.

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.

How To Troubleshoot Your Furnace Before Calling A Houston Heater Company

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Troubleshooting Your Furnace: 4 Quick Fixes To Try Before You Call A Professional AC Man In Houston

Would you want to spend $100 and then be told the obvious? You wouldn’t?

We didn’t think so. However, that is what frequently occurs when homeowners in Houston call us about furnace repair. The “problem” is often caused by a minor problem that could have been repaired, which could save themselves the expense of a service call.

If your furnace is not working the way that it should be, wait on the service call. First, try out the following 4 simple troubleshooting tasks. If they do not fix the problem, then call us for assistance.

1. Check The Thermostat For Problems

Is your furnace not turning on? First, check your thermostat and then do the following tasks:

  • Make sure that your thermostat is set on “heat” and not on “cool”
  • Also, be sure the thermostat is turned 5 degrees higher at least than the room temperature is.
  • Replace the battery on the thermostat
  • Open up the thermostat and blow out any accumulated dirt or dust. If your furnace is sometimes blowing cool air, you should check your thermostat fan setting in order to be sure it is on “auto” and not “on.” A furnace’s “on” setting” causes the blower to run continuously even when the air is not being heated by the furnace.

2. Check Your Furnace Filter

Is the furnace randomly shutting down? Does it run for long periods of time and seem to not heat your house? Is it weak air coming out of the vents? If so, then the furnace filter may be dirty.

When your system has a dirty furnace filter it restricts the airflow over the heat exchanger over the furnace, which can cause a number of different problems:

  • The heat exchanger overheats and then shuts down.
  • Soot may accumulate on the heat exchanger, which reduces the efficiency of your furnace. This reduces airflow that comes out of the vents. Which means that the furnace is operating, but you are never comfortable.

The owner’s manual for your furnace should show where the filter is and direction on how to replace it. Your filter should be checked once a month at least and then change it, as necessary. So when is a filter considered to be “too dirty” for you to keep? Hold your filter up to a light. If you are unable to clearly see any light coming through, then replace the filter.

3. Check The Shutoff Switches & Circuit Breakers

Is your furnace refusing to turn on no matter what the temperature has been set to? It might be turned on. The following are a couple of places to check:

  • Standard wall switch close to the furnace. It may look like a regular light switch.
  • Circuit breaker panel. Search for the switch that has a furnace label close to it. When the switch is in the center position, that means it is tripped. Turn the switch to “off” and then “on.” If that results in the circuit breaker tripping again, then you have another problem that needs to be fixed (such as having to replace the air filter.)
  • The front panel that covers the blower. Be sure the panel is shut closed all of the way. Under the panel is a switch that must be depressed in order for your furnace to work.

4. Open Up Any Air Vents That Are Closed

Homeowners frequently close the air vents in the rooms they are not using in order to save money.

However, when vents are closed in any room it actually causes the opposite to occur: it actually wastes money – and may also cause your furnace to shut off.

How?

The size of your furnace is designed for heating up your whole house, including unused rooms. Closing vents will not reduce how much air is pushed out by the blower. It only increases the pressure inside the air duct system.

(Picture yourself attempting to run while breathing with just one nostril. You are still attempting to move around the same amount of air, but there is a lot more pressure that travels through only one nostril.)

The added pressure within the duct system can cause several of the problems that you might be experiencing:

Less comfortable – A majority of houses have air duct leaks, that allows for the escape of conditioned air. Extra air pressure inside of the ducts pushes out more air through the leaks – or creates even more air leaks. This means that less air is getting into certain parts of your house.

Furnace continues to shut down – The added pressure causes your blower to work at lower speeds. That decreases the air over your heat exchanger, which cause it to overheat and then shut down. That is like you have a dirty air filter.

Call or contact us today for more information.

Heat Pump Or Gas Furnace?

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Should Houston Homeowners Get A Heat Pump Or Gas Furnace?

Houston homeowners often wind up asking the same question if they need to replace their home’s heating and cooling system. Should they get a heat pump, or should they get an air conditioner and furnace system?

There is a good rule of thumb to use when choosing between a heat pump or a more conventional AC/furnace combo:

If you live somewhere really warm, like Houston, that has electricity cheaper than gas, then seriously consider a heat pump. On the other hand, if your location has sub-freezing temperatures in winter and your electricity costs more than gas, use a combination of a furnace and air conditioner. Simple enough, right? Your utility rates and local climate should determine just which HVAC system is going to be your best bet.

We’ll go into why each of these factors matters as well as how they apply to Houston homeowners.

Why Climate Matters

To know why the climate is so decisive as a factor, it’s important to first understand how heat pumps work.

The following is a simple explanation:

In the summertime, a heat pump will work like an air conditioner does, as it uses refrigerant to actually absorb the heat of your home’s air before moving it outside. In wintertime, it does the reverse, as it extracts heat from the air outside to move into the home. That’s different from gas furnaces that produce heat by burning fuel. So this is the point where climate factors in. If the weather goes below 40F, a heat pump isn’t able to heat a home up to the temperature setting the thermostat is at. So, it would have to have a backup heating system that can kick in and help out.

A gas furnace.

A gas furnace is certainly more efficient than an electric coil. As such, a lot of homeowners choose to pair up their heat pump with a gas furnace in order to have a ‘dual-fuel heating system’. Now, you might be thinking why would you get a heat pump and a furnace when you can just opt for an air conditioner and a furnace? The answer comes from how often a heat pump needs to rely on its backup heating system. In most of Houston, a heat pump only needs to rely on its backup gas furnace for only a very few winter days that get really truly cold. So, even though a heat pump/furnace combo might cost a bit more in advance than an AC/furnace combo, your utility rates could be lower across the calendar with the former over the latter. We are certainly implying that the heating rate of a heat pump doesn’t cost as much as a furnace’s. That topic is covered in the next section.

Why Electric Vs Gas Rates Are Deciding Factors

Heat pumps and air conditioners have similar cooling efficiencies. A 13 SEER heat pump will cool just as efficiently as a 13 SEER AC unit. That should simplify a few things for you. So, your only necessary comparison is the cost of using a gas furnace as compared to a heat pump. In the end, everything comes down to how much electricity costs versus how much gas costs. Per Entergy, a heat pump might save you around $300 per year. That makes heat pumps the better heating option in Houston in terms of cost-efficiency.

Find A Reputable Houston HVAC Contractor

Regardless of the particular heating/cooling system you choose, the caliber of the installation has a huge influence on how much efficiency you’ll get. Per ENERGYSTAR, the estimated savings potential of a good installation will range from 18 percent up to 36 percent for air conditioners or heat pumps, but 11 percent to 18 percent for a furnace.