Houston HVAC Expert Explains Ductless HVAC

Dispelling Myths Of Ductless HVAC Technology

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

The Most Well-Known Myths About Ductless HVAC Units

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

Final Words

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

 

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

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Five Tips On How To Hire The Best HVAC Contractor

How To Locate And Hire A Reputable And Reliable HVAC Contractor

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

Experience and Licensing

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

Ask For Referrals and References

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

House Evaluation

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

Branding

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

Fair Pricing and Versatility

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

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

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HVAC Repair Technician Tell-All – Heaters Not Heating?

Furnace Blowing Cold Air, Do I Need An HVAC Repair Technician? – How To Troubleshoot The Problem.

Are you turning on your furnace, but it is blowing cold air? Are you wondering what is wrong? Well, the truth is that it could be multiple issues, of which some of them you can solve. Before you go right ahead to call a professional HVAC repair Technician, below are 4 troubleshooting techniques that will help.

1. The Thermostat’s FAN Setting

Is your furnace blowing cold air sometimes and hot the other? Well, the problem could be the thermostat’s fan setting, which may be at the ON position. It is important to note that the blower is controlled by the Fan setting control. It is the system that helps circulate air through your home. As such, if it has been set to ON, the blower will run all the time (24/7), regardless of whether the furnace is heating or not. This may be the reason you are getting cold air.

The solution? The only solution to this problem is to ensure the fan setting has been set to AUTO and not ON. The AUTO setting will ensure the fan will run only when the furnace heats the air.

2. The Furnace’s Air Filter

If your furnace is blowing cold air, the problem could be its air filter (meaning it is too dirty). When the air filter becomes too dirty, it limits the flow of air to the furnace’s heat exchanger, which makes it overheat. When this happens, a high limit switch will be tripped, which shuts off the furnace banners to prevent cracking.

The Solution? The solution is to first turn off the furnace at the thermostat and inspect the filter. If it is too dirty, changing it is the only way. You may also need the services of a professional HVAC repair technician to help you reset the furnace. Filters are generally located next to the blower in many models.

3. Inspect The Pilot Light

If you have an older furnace model with a standing pilot light, then you should inspect it. if the pilot light is not lit, then it means that the furnace’s burners will light, which means no heat.

The Solution? You should try relighting the pilot light. Below are steps to follow.

• Switch Off The Furnace – This includes switching the thermostat from HEAT to OFF.
• Locate The Furnace’s Pilot Light Assembly and Reset Switch – The switch and assembly are generally located near the bottom of the furnace. If you cannot locate them, then refer to your furnace’s manual. You must open the cover to access the reset switch. You should see a knob with 3 settings; ‘ON’, ’OFF’, and ’Pilot’.
• Turn The Knob ‘OFF’ and Wait for at least 3 minutes – Doing this will shut the gas flowing through the pilot.
• Turn The Knob To ‘Pilot’ and Press the Knob Down – By doing this action, you will be restarting the flow of gas to the pilot.
• While Still Pressing The Knob, Hold a lighter to the pilot opening Until The Flame Lights – The flame should have a steady blue cone and hit the middle of the thermocouple (this is a small copper bar)
• Turn The Knob To The ‘ON’ Position – Now the furnace should ignite.
• Turn ‘On’ The Furnace At The Thermostat
• Turn the thermostat back to ‘HEAT’, and ensure the temperature is set 5 degrees below the room temperature. After doing this, you should be getting hot air.

What To Do If The Pilot Light Does Not Light Or Stay Lit

Well, this is the point you call a professional HVAC repair technician. The problem may be a malfunctioning thermocouple or other issues that make the pilot light not to burn properly.

4. Inspect The Condensate Line

If you have a high-efficiency furnace and you see water pooling around the furnace, then most likely the condensate line is blocked. The line is usually a PVC pipe. This problem will make the furnace to shut down.

How? You may ask.

High-efficiency furnaces create water when running, which is then drained to the common house’s draining line. However, if the condensate is blocked, water begins to back up into the furnace. At this point, the overflow will trip a kill switch, which will turn off the furnace to prevent water damage.

Common causes for blockages include:

• Mold
• Dirt
• Dust
• Ice
• Broken condensate pump (in this case, you will need the services of a professional HVAC repair technician)

The Solution? Apart from broken condensate pump, the rest can be solved by simply unclogging the line. You can achieve this by following this tutorial on Energy Vanguard.

 

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

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Should You Perform HVAC Maintenance In Houston?

Air Conditioning Seasonal Houston HVAC Maintenance – Do You Really Need It?

Air conditioners are one of the most important systems you cannot do without, especially during summer months. Even though you love fresh cool air, how long an air conditioner works generally depends on the way you care for it. Seasonal HVAC maintenance has always been a debate for many homeowners and the most common point of reference is weather (how air conditioners are not used during winter months). Nevertheless, just like every system in the world, air conditioners need care as well. Otherwise, they tend to rust as well as lose its efficiency.

Reasons Why Regular HVAC Maintenance Is Needed?

Regular maintenance of air conditioner systems is needed and this is a fact. It does not matter the seasons you use your system; a lot of the problems arise when it is not used. With seasonal HVAC maintenance, you are not only prolonging your AC’s life, and efficiency; but helps in protecting the system from different seasonal changes. Furthermore, because of preventive maintenance, you will not experience unnecessary system interruptions or breakdowns. Because maintenance helps improve your system’s efficiency, you will surely have improved the effects of cooling as well as save money on monthly utility bills. Remember, it does not matter how new or old your system is, you will improve performance, efficiency, and money of electric bill through seasonal HVAC maintenance. Therefore, it is right to say that seasonal HVAC maintenance has proved to be the most efficient, economical, and trouble-free method to make an AC work perfectly.

Steps To Perform Simple Seasonal HVAC Maintenance

Below are some steps to perform simple seasonal HVAC maintenance. These steps will not only help your system run efficiently but improve its lifespan.

Step One: Disconnect The Power Source To The HVAC

Remember, safety comes first no matter what you are doing. As such, when it comes to maintaining your air conditioner, it is wise to disconnect its power source. This should be your first method. This way, you will protect yourself against electric shocks.

Step Two: Clean Or Replace The Air Filter

Experts recommend replacing the air filter at least every three months. Because you are not limited, you can replace them as much as you want, even after a month. However, even though replacing is an option, cleaning is another option. Cleaning will help prevent dirt from settling in the filter itself, which will reduce its efficiency. Experts recommend cleaning the filter at least once a month and then replace them after three months. Cleaning does also help limit wear and tear of the system.

Step Three: Cleaning The Condenser

There are many benefits to cleaning the condenser, and it is a very important thing as well. With time, the condenser may be blocked with dirt and debris, which generally causes a lot of problems. First, the AC system will be unable to cool a room efficiently. Secondly, dirt and debris could cause corrosion, due to humidity buildup. As such, cleaning will take you a long way. However, there are certain maintenance processes that need the services of a professional. Therefore, if you do not know how to perform the following simple maintenance tips or generally need overall seasonal HVAC maintenance, you should call a professional.

We are a professional HVAC maintenance company in Houston, TX. We offer both commercial and residential HVAC services. Give us a call today to speak with a professional, or check our services.

Our teams of experts have the experience to repair any AC model. We are not only reliable but affordable as well. We also offer seasonal cleaning services, which means you do not have to worry about your system.

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Was My Houston A/C Repair Company Too Good? – Is Your A/C Giving You A Cold?

Air Conditioning And The Common Cold: Is There A Link?

The human body has an amazing variety of responses to cold temperatures. But None Are The A/C Repair Company’s Fault!

The idea that cold weather is tied to the common cold is a stubborn one. Despite repeated scientific inquiries, many people still hold this mistaken assumption. The greater number of colds in winter has nothing to do with the weather – at least, not directly. Colds spread more quickly in the colder months because people spend more time indoors, coming into closer contact with other people. This allows germs to reproduce and spread more easily.

Natural cold weather doesn’t cause colds. What about rooms chilled by air conditioning? To some people’s minds, there’s a real connection between entering air conditioned spaces and contracting a cold. While I believe it’s true that exposure to cold air can make it easier to get sick, I think it’s also important to bear in mind that colds can only be caught after exposure to the cold virus. So if you’ve got a new HVAC system recently, don’t go blaming your A/c repair company for your next case of the sniffles!

Let’s take a closer look at this.

When the weather outside is warm, moving repeatedly from the sunny outdoors to the air-conditioned indoors can cause some interesting bodily reactions. Remember at this point that the warm-blooded human body takes its own steps to try and keep us at our proper 98.6-degree temperature. When you move from a warm space to a cold one, the temperature change is registered by your skin and your brain is alerted. It sends back an order for an appropriate reaction. In this case, it constricts the blood vessels in the skin to keep us warm. If you look carefully, you can actually see this happen. Many people become noticeably pale when they enter a much colder air-conditioned space. In extreme cases, people may shiver – an involuntary response designed to generate heat.

It’s not just blood vessels in the skin that constrict. The same thing happens in our noses and throats. This slows down the flow of white blood cells that fight infection, and that may make us more susceptible to contracting a virus. Remember, the virus already has to be there! If there is a virus at large, we may become more susceptible by repeatedly entering air-conditioned spaces.

Of course, this effect doesn’t happen when we make the opposite temperature change. Moving into a warmer space like the outdoors in summer reverses the process. Blood vessels dilate and increase the flow of white blood cells. This boosts our immune response and makes us less likely to contract an infection.

Air conditioning can have some real health benefits. It can relieve respiratory conditions like asthma. Your air conditioner needs to be properly cared for in order to maintain the quality of the air it moves, though. Excess moisture can promote the growth and spread of fungi, bacteria, and other unwanted contaminants. An old or poorly-maintained air conditioner may actually blast those contaminants right into your body.

How do you reduce the risk of getting sick? Always drink lots of fluids. (This keeps your throat and nose moist.) Wash your hands regularly – especially at work – to reduce virus transfer. When possible, open up a window to get fresh air into your system.

At A/C Man we are dedicated to bringing you the best HVAC repair and installation available. Don’t wait around until your old system goes out or you find yourself in need of heat this winter only to smell the mold and dust when you kick the temperature up, Call or Contact us today to get ahead of the game!

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Replace Your Air Filters With Proper Houston HVAC Maintenance

AC Filter Replacing With AC Man Of Houston

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

Types of Filters

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

Seasonal Factors

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

Home Residents

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

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

Houston HVAC Efficiency

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

HVAC Services in Houston

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

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

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Making Your HVAC More Efficient With AC Man of Houston

How To Maximize The Efficiency Of Your Home’s HVAC System

In many parts of the country, temperatures start to drop as August comes to an end. In Houston, however, high temperatures can continue through October, forcing homeowners to regularly use their air conditioners to stay cool and comfortable. In fact, many homeowners in the area experience a significant increase in their cooling costs during these months.

If you live in the Houston area and want to keep your bills as low as possible, maintaining your HVAC system is a good place to start. Or contacting the best HVAC repair Houston has to offer, will make that job a lot more simple. Check out the tips below to keep your HVAC system running smoothly during this peak cooling season.

HVAC Maintenance Tips For Homeowners

Have your system professionally serviced. After running all summer, your system could most likely benefit from an inspection. During this visit, the technician can spot any signs of wear, taking steps to help your system run as efficiently as possible.

Common problems with HVAC Systems

Leaking Refrigerant

If you notice that the air coming out of your air conditioner isn’t as cool as it used to be, it could be because you have a refrigerant leak. This forces your condenser to work overtime, causing excessive wear to your unit. As soon as you notice a change in air temperature, contact a technician to check your refrigerant levels.

A Clogged Air Filter

Air filters collect dust and other airborne particles while your air conditioner is running. Over time, they can become extremely dirty, sometimes even becoming clogged altogether. This forces your system to work much harder to get the air that it needs. If the airflow out of your air conditioning unit doesn’t seem very strong, it could be because your filters are clogged.

Issues With Drainage

If you notice any pooling water near your air conditioner, you most likely have a drainage problem. This is often caused by a damaged condensation pump.

A Malfunctioning Sensor

If the sensor in your HVAC unit is broken, it won’t turn on and off properly. This can make it impossible to maintain the right temperature inside your home.

During a maintenance visit, a qualified technician can identify whether or not your system has any of these problems. They can also help you take steps to correct them, ensuring that your unit is as efficient as possible.

Have Your Home’s Energy Efficiency Evaluated

An energy audit can help you identify areas where you may be able to improve your home’s energy efficiency. This, in turn, can make it easier for your HVAC system to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home.

What Problems Can An Energy Audit Identify?

During an energy audit, a technician will check your home for any areas where air may be leaking. For instance, they will check around your doors and windows to make sure that they are airtight so that you don’t waste energy.

Look Into Other Options For Keeping Your House Cool

You may be able to lower your cooling bills by using a programmable thermostat. These thermostats allow you to control when your air conditioner runs, helping you to avoid wasting energy. For instance, you can set the thermostat to turn your air conditioner on shortly before you get home from work. That way, you can arrive home to a cool, comfortable house without having to leave your AC unit running all day. Using one of these thermostats can literally save you hundreds of dollars each year.

You can also save money by using a ceiling fan in conjunction with your air conditioner. Turn the temperature on your air conditioner a little bit higher than you usually do. Then, set the ceiling fan so that it turns in a counterclockwise direction. This will pull hot air from the room up toward the ceiling, helping to create a cooler indoor space.

Purchase A More Energy-Efficient System

If your HVAC system is outdated, it may be a good idea to update to a new Energy Star approved model. These high-efficiency systems can reduce your heating and cooling costs by as much as 60%. In most cases, you can quickly recoup the cost of a new HVAC system through the energy savings that it provides.

We are committed to working with Houston homeowners to make sure that their HVAC equipment is always functioning properly. Unlike some of our competitors, you don’t have to worry about any surprises on your bill. The quote that we provide you is the price we will charge, whether we are performing maintenance or helping you upgrade to a new air conditioner. Please feel free to contact us today to see how we can help you with your heating and cooling needs.

Call us today to schedule your consultation!

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