6 Tips for Summertime to Reduce AC Repair

Katy AC Repair Tips to Reduce HVAC Repair Costs

As the summer heat intensifies, south Texans depend on air conditioning for every aspect of life: transportation, work, and being at home. We tend to choose when and how long we expose ourselves to the heat and humidity of the great outdoors.

For this reason, it is important to care for the entire home to enhance the safety, health, and comfort air conditioning brings. The following Katy AC repair steps can help cool a home with better results and efficiency.

Katy AC Repair Tip 1: Acknowledge Solar Power

Many homes are built to accentuate natural lighting, brightening certain spaces for aesthetic purposes. However, this natural lighting can increase solar gain and make a home warmer than desired; the light energy entering a home can increase the indoor temperature by as much as 10 degrees on very sunny days.

Blocking the light on the south side of the house from about 9 to 5 can keep a home cooler and require fewer cooling cycles per hour. Early morning and late afternoon light is less intense and should be more enjoyable.

Katy AC Repair Tip 2: Understand Radiant Heat

Heat also travels through solid objects; when the exterior of the home becomes hot, the heat travels through the building material and enters the home. The purpose of insulation is to create a barrier to radiant heat.

A poorly insulated home allows more heat to pass through walls and ceilings than is comfortable. After construction, usually, the only accessible space for insulation is the attic, so make sure your attic is adequately insulated.

Katy AC Repair Tip 3: Recognize the Benefits of Maintenance

Air conditioning systems are quite remarkable. They cool a home, remove humidity, clean the air, and keep the moving air fresh. The whole house can be cooled to a precise temperature setting and maintained day and night, as desired. However, this precise mechanical system must be properly maintained to ensure it functions properly and efficiently.

Without regular maintenance, performance suffers, cooling costs soar, and the components (or the whole system) reach a premature end of useful life. Manufacturers and HVAC technicians recommend scheduling annual preventative maintenance and quarterly air filter replacements.

Katy AC Repair Tip 4: Schedule Temperature Changes

Many thermostats are programmable, but few homeowners take the time to program temperature changes to their advantage. Is the house empty for extended periods? Do family sleep patterns coincide?

These are two lengthy periods in which the temperature setting could be raised by 5 to 8 degrees without affecting comfort. It would, however, affect energy efficiency and cost to the benefit of the family budget. Take a few minutes and read the instruction manual for the thermostat.

Katy AC Repair Tip 5: Inspect the Vents

Vents are strategically placed throughout the home to ensure the indoor air is thoroughly mixed; supply vents are placed low, and return air vents are placed high. During normal household activities, vents can be covered or blocked by drapes, clothing, or furniture. Take time to notice vents regularly to ensure they remain clear for adequate air movement.

Katy AC Repair Tip 6: Use Ceiling Fans Effectively

Ceiling fans generally assist the air conditioning system, helping to mix the air for improved cleaning and cooling. Static air can develop thermal layers, with warm air high and cool air low. A ceiling fan set to turn counterclockwise will pull the air up and push air out to the sides of the space, mixing the air and moving it toward return air vents.

Call the Katy AC Repair Experts

Routine maintenance and preventative tips like we have outlined can help you reduce Katy AC repair costs this summer. Schedule your Katy AC repair consultation by calling All Cool AC & Heating at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email and let our NATE-certified Katy AC repair technicians put their experience to work for you.

May 23, 2024

Katy AC Repair

Katy AC Repair or AC Replacement, Which is Right for You?

Air conditioning became common in the 1950s and by 1960, most new homes were built with central AC. With nearly 70 years of available data concerning air conditioner use, the information concerning longevity is pretty accurate. That is, the average lifespan of air conditioners ranges between 15 and 20 years, while regular preventative maintenance and timely AC repair can add years of service—five to ten extra years.

This information might impact your present situation if your AC system is approaching its teenage years. During this time, you can expect repair bills to mount. It can bring up a dilemma—keep repairing it or replace it. Here are some vital pieces of information to help you make this determination.

The Intricacies of Katy AC Repair

It will also seem that repairs are cheaper than replacement; after all, the replacement cost can be quite expensive. However, there are further cost considerations that should put the replacement cost into a balanced perspective.

Research repair invoices for your system and pay attention to the accumulation of bills. One repair bill might not be significant, but a high total or an increase in repair costs might give a different story.
This research might also reveal the necessity of repairing the same part repeatedly. When this happens, it often indicates a weakness in the system that is not being addressed. That means further repairs should be expected.
When both factors are combined, it signals a rising cost that you should be aware of.
As the system ages, larger components are threatened by wear and tear. Large components = large cost. It is at this time that repair costs and replacement costs must be closely compared and considered. Replacing expensive parts on a failing system might not be a wise decision.

“Staying the course” might make sense . . . until it doesn’t.

The Reality of Age

As your system ages, other realities affect the bottom line and impact financial decisions.

Older systems, with weakened components, will still try very hard to meet the temperature setting called upon with the thermostat. Cooling with weaker parts requires more energy, and more energy costs more money, and this might become apparent. If you are unsure, request the energy bill from the same month for the last two years, and compare the amount of energy for each month. The energy amount is measured in kWh.
Older systems may also suffer in performance. It might be evident during a period of extreme heat; a heat wave might leave occupants uncomfortably warm. An older system might also fail to remove adequate humidity, leaving everyone and everything feeling sticky and moist.
An older system gives you a glimpse of the future and allows you to plan for a future replacement. Saving money or adjusting the budget will help you prepare for the large purchase that is sure to come. It is a better plan than wishful thinking.

Preparation should include scheduling the eventual replacement and avoiding times of serious schedule pressure by Katy AC Repair technicians.

Contact Your Katy AC Repair Experts Today

Schedule your Katy AC Repair consultation by calling All Cool AC & Heating at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email and let our NATE-certified Katy AC Repair technicians put their experience to work for you.

December 19, 2023December 22, 2023

Examining the Real Cost of HVAC Repair

The Real Cost of HVAC Repair

A new heating, ventilation, and air conditioner (HVAC) system is installed as a state-of-the-art mechanical system, and it is in its best condition ever. The lifespan of HVAC components is about 15 years for air conditioning and 20 years for heater mechanisms.

Between installation and replacement, there is a sliding scale of expected actions and reactions, maintenance, and repairs. Since about 8 billion HVAC systems are currently in use, these expectations are based on lots of maintenance and HVAC repair experience. Let’s look at what normally happens.

The two nemeses of HVAC systems are dirt and use.

Airborne particles surround us, both inside and outside of the home. They go everywhere! We have special functions in our lungs to remove these particles, so it stands to reason that the heating, ventilation, and cooling systems will need to handle dust and dirt in the air.
The act of turning an electrical device on and off is minutely violent. Very thin wires are minding their own business when suddenly electrons come rushing through and force things to move, heat, and create light. During a heating or cooling season, the system usually cycles on and off four to five times per hour. These minute violences take their toll on electrical parts.

When we catch a whiff of pepper, it causes us to sneeze or cough, but an HVAC system does not have a way to remove dust, dirt, or pollen. For this reason, manufacturers, HVAC Repair contractors, and even the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency tell homeowners they need to complete preventative maintenance inspections annually. Maintenance combats the two nemeses of the HVAC system.

Homeowners should complete the most important maintenance task on the list. The air filter is constantly collecting dust and needs to be changed at least once every three months. However, with or without regular maintenance, dust and use still take their toll on the system. Problems are rather predictable, based on repair records. Over time, the repairs come in rather foreseeable patterns.

Common HVAC Repair Issues

Electrical Controls. Contactors and capacitors that are responsible for turning large components, like compressor motors and blower motors, on and off are susceptible to wear. In the useful life of an air conditioner, these parts are often replaced at least once.
Large Components. Two major parts are particularly susceptible to dust: blower and compressor motors. When a filter clogs, the amount of air getting pulled through the filter is greatly reduced. That means the blower motor must work harder to push/pull air across the evaporator coil. It is a bit like sailing a ship while dragging an anchor.

The outdoor condenser unit receives the heat from inside the house and MUST disperse it rather quickly. A central fan pulls an incredible amount of air across a network of tubes and fins that give maximum surface space for cooling. However, when dust, leaves, and grass clippings clog the network, the gas inside the tubes stays too hot and causes the compressor to overheat. This is not good at all.

Coolant Leaks. The cooling functions when a refrigerant gas is repeatedly compressed and released inside a sealed network. As you might expect, the gas is under significant pressure, so if even an incredibly small hole or crack develops, the gas leaks out. Not good!

Common Heater Repairs

Some electrical controls used for air conditioning also regulate and control the heater/furnace. The information above applies to the heating system as well. Natural gas-powered heaters might also experience the following problems.

Flame Sensors. A sensor remains in contact with the flame, and as a result, soot or carbon builds up on the sensor. Other sensors experience expansion and contraction with every ignition.
Burners and Heat Exchangers. A byproduct of burning natural gas is water vapor and furnace parts made of iron that are susceptible to rust building up. Rust is corrosion, so the metal is growing thinner as the rust grows thicker. Cleaning the rust away is only a part of maintenance. Ensuring the corrosion hasn’t created leaks is also necessary since leaks allow deadly gases to enter the home.

The good news is that maintenance inhibits dust and use from causing major problems but detects minor problems early. Unfortunately, the system will need to be replaced. The good news is that regular maintenance can extend the useful life of an HVAC system by at least 5 years.

Need Help Sorting Out the Costs of HVAC Repair?

Schedule your HVAC Repair consultation by calling All Cool AC & Heating at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email and let our NATE-certified HVAC Repair technicians put their experience to work for you.

June 28, 2023June 28, 2023

3 New Rules for AC Systems

AC Systems Rules for Homeowners

Two federal regulatory agencies regulate the manufacturing of heating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and both have regulatory upgrades that took effect on January 1, 2023. Regulatory changes are made with long-range environmental health in mind. These upgrades affect the choices available to consumers who need to replace their HVAC systems in homes and businesses. Without getting super technical, here are some simple explanations of the regulatory changes.

SEER Improvements

In 1992, the Department of Energy introduced Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings for new central air conditioning products (EER ratings for room air conditioning). It was based on testing completed in laboratory settings that measures the cooling output of a system compared to the energy used. SEER is a long-range measurement, over an entire cooling season and not a snapshot reading. Larger SEER numbers indicate greater energy efficiency.

The same federal agency oversees energy efficiency requirements in automobile manufacturing; the mpg rating for new cars is much higher than new cars a decade ago. Overseeing energy efficiency is done to lower our dependence on fossil fuels and reduce the total carbon footprint of the nation.

SEER requirements have been stepping up incrementally and 2023 is the year for the next efficiency upgrade. For the region that includes Texas, the minimum SEER rating for available air conditioner systems moves from 14 to 15. Manufacturers and contractors have been aware of this change for years, so the old stock of SEER 14 has been moved to other regions and only SEER 15 products are available locally.

SEER 2 Implementation

Researchers, always looking to improve their processes, noticed a slight difference between the measurement methods in laboratory settings and the actual energy efficiency capability that can be produced in the field. A new designation was developed to reflect the current means of measurement, so the new HVAC systems will have a SEER2 designation. This is an internal DOE implementation and has nothing to do with air conditioning operations in your home.

AC System Refrigerant Gas Changes

While the Department of Energy is overseeing air conditioner manufacturing, the Environmental Protection Agency is overseeing the production and distribution of the refrigerant gas used in the cooling process.

Air conditioning uses a mechanical-chemical process, called heat pump technology. By compressing and suddenly releasing pressure on certain gases, the system moves heat from inside to outside. In some cases, the process can be reversed, moving available heat outside to inside, to heat a home.
Scientists have used a variety of refrigerant gases over the years to cool indoor spaces. Some of these gases were discovered to be harmful to the environment, even depleting the ozone layer at the edges of the atmosphere. Ozone deflects significant amounts of ultraviolet radiation. These gases have been phased out and replaced with newer, more environmentally friendly choices.
In 2023, a few more gases are being phased out for more environmentally friendly gases. New systems will use new refrigerants; expect to see R-32 designations for new systems.
Some new products will also use an A2L type of gas. While the efficiency rating is very high, they are mildly flammable. A new HVAC system might have consumer warnings, denoting this fact.

All Cool has been tracking the regulatory climate and offers only compliant products. We are trained on the new equipment and gases. Existing systems that use older-style refrigerants can still be serviced, including adding gases as needed; we are also equipped to service and repair older systems.

Is Your AC System Effected by New Regulations? Let us help you decide!

Schedule your free AC System consultation by calling AllCool AC & Heating at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email.

June 22, 2023

HVAC Repairs: Post Hurricane Inspections

After a Hurricane: What HVAC Repairs Might Be in Order

On average, a hurricane hits the coast of Texas every six years. Between 50 and 60 thunderstorms pop up in our fair state each year; approximately 1/3 of them become severe thunderstorms.¹ Severe weather happens in Texas often enough that it bears staying aware of conditions and preparing for storms as needed.

The portion of your air conditioning system that is most vulnerable during strong storms is the outdoor cabinet, commonly called the condenser unit. The name is an oversimplification because it performs several functions all at once.

Here is a quick update on the condenser unit’s function and how to protect it from needing HVAC Repairs during severe weather.

Performance

While you might consider air conditioning as bringing cool air into your space, technically air conditioning moves heat from air inside your home to the great outdoors. Since the heat needs to move outdoors, an outdoor unit is necessary.

Refrigerant gas, commonly called Freon, moves through a closed loop of tubes.
A compressor motor puts refrigerant gas under significant pressure—approximately 400 psi. Since the compression makes the gas extremely hot, it is performed outdoors.
When the pressure is suddenly released, the gas becomes very cold very quickly. The refrigerant gas readily absorbs the heat and cools the surrounding air in the indoor cabinet.
The hot gas now moves outdoors through a network of tubes to be cooled by moving air. If the gas does not cool, compressing it again will cause the system to overheat and damage vital components.

Potential Damage

While the condenser unit is made of sturdy, industrial components, many of the materials are rather thin and vulnerable to damage from the high winds and heavy rains that characterize strong storms. During a strong storm, shutting off power to the AC system is a good idea; power surges can damage the system’s electronics. Before turning on the air conditioner, inspect the condenser unit for damage, looking for:

Strong winds or flood waters can pick up the condenser or worse, cause it to be airborne. In some locations, local ordinances may require the condenser to be strapped down to prevent it from being carried away in high winds.
Downed lines. Observe the surroundings carefully, watching for downed power lines. Notice the conduit, carrying electricity to the condenser; it cares high voltage, so take note of any damage to the unit’s wiring. If the wiring is damaged, stay away and call a professional technician.
Standing water. Thunderstorms can produce flash flooding, but hurricanes produce huge amounts of rain and can result in a pool of water surrounding the condenser unit. Remember that water is a very good conductor of electricity and do not enter the standing water until the power is shut off to the unit.
Tubing damage. Observe two copper tubes that connect the condenser to the indoor cabinet. These tubes contain refrigerant gas and might be damaged by flying debris or movement. If damage is observed, do not turn the system on until repairs are made.
Oily leak. The coil of tubing that cools refrigerant gas is susceptible to damage from flying debris or movement of the condenser cabinet. Since the gas is under pressure, the system must remain an intact closed loop. A tell-tale sign of gas leakage is a black, oily substance—a component of the gas. If you observe this substance, call a technician before restoring power to the system.
Dirt and debris. The wind carries many objects, both small and large, often at very high speeds. Make sure to clear limbs, leaves, and other large objects away from the condenser. The fan is drawing air through the unit and out the top, so make sure to allow two feet of clearance for adequate airflow.

Use a garden hose and gently wash the coil of the condenser unit. When dust and sand become lodged between the fins of the coil, it reduces the necessary airflow. This can lead to overheating of the compressor motor and catastrophic damage to the unit.

Let us help with your Post Hurricane HVAC Repairs!

Schedule your free HVAC Repairs consultation by calling AllCool AC & Heating at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email.

¹ https://www.weather.gov/hgx/severe_weather_awareness_thunderstorm#:~:text=On%20average%2C%20southeast%20Texas%20experiences,the%20afternoon%20and%20evening%20hours

May 16, 2023May 17, 2023

Emergency AC Repair

Emergency AC Repair for Houston Homeowners

When something changes and interrupts normal activity, it manifests itself as an emergency in our schedule, and the loss of air conditioning during a hot summer night seems to qualify as an emergency. However, others will quickly reveal that not every interruption in your AC service should be considered an emergency. Here is a list of potential problems and the severity level of an emergency.

Health Concerns Related to Emergency AC Repair

If you or a family member have moderate to severe health concerns and the extreme temperatures make one vulnerable, the loss of air conditioning is considered an emergency. Technicians will recognize the emergency and arrive as soon as possible. As you review the following examples, this concern trumps all others in determining an emergency.

However, if this is your situation, you are more likely to be monitoring air conditioning performance and scheduling regular maintenance to ensure emergencies are less likely. You are more likely to have a working relationship with the HVAC professional servicing your system, who will recognize the potential distress.

Trust Your Senses

First, your sense of smell can indicate an emergency.

If you smell smoke or something “burning,” consider it an emergency. Explore the source and if you determine your air conditioner is the source, turn the system off and call your HVAC professional immediately. Monitor the situation to ensure nothing is burning. If something is burning, treat it as a fire emergency.
If you experience a sudden sound followed by a strange odor, turn off the system and open a window or door. Anticipate a loss in cooling, but the emergency is over. If the odor you smell is musty or mildewy, call your professional, but this is not an emergency.
If you hear a buzz or excessive clicking, turn off the system. If the buzzing stops, call a technician, but it is not an emergency since you found the source of the buzzing. Without proper training, do not explore the source—wait for a technician.

Emergency AC Repair: Storm Damage

During an extreme storm, it is not unusual to lose power and subsequently, to lose air conditioning. The problem may be simple or complex, but chances are that you are not alone. Restoring power may be delayed and gradual, so be patient. There may be many people requesting the same—restoration of power.

When the power is restored, your air conditioner may or may not be restored. These problems may be simple or complex, but unless there are health concerns, this does not rise to the level of an emergency. It will require patience and understanding. No one likes to wait, but anticipates that repairs will take time. Without proper training, do not explore the problem—wait for a technician.

It’s Not Working

If your air conditioner stops working properly, one or more of the following indicators may be present.

The unit may not work at all. First, check the circuit breaker and make sure the air conditioner is receiving power. Second, check the thermostat to ensure it is in the cool setting and call for a temperature below room temperature. If both check out, call a technician.
If the blower motor is running, but the air is warm, first, check for a clogged air filter. The filter can reduce airflow and cause this problem. Second, investigate both the inside and outside AC unit, looking for frost or ice buildup. Do not remove the ice, but when you make a call, it is good information to share with the technician.
Without proper training, homeowners are not prepared to repair electrical or mechanical issues with air conditioner systems.

HVAC technicians approach their service as professionals; they attempt to work efficiently and quickly to restore air conditioning services to every home. Emergency AC Repair Technicians experience and therefore understand the discomfort of losing air conditioning service during a hot, summer day. We respond to emergencies first and work through the remaining calls as quickly as possible.

Need Emergency AC Repair, call us today!

Schedule your free Emergency AC Repair consultation by calling AllCool AC & Heating at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email.

November 18, 2022November 18, 2022

5 Signs You Need to Make an AC Repair Appointment Today

Warning Signs You Need AC Repair

Well . . . your older air conditioner made it through another summer. It ran well, but you are a little concerned; it has been around for a while and last summer it required a minor AC Repair. The fall is a good time to replace it but is considering taking a chance for one more year. What should you know before making that decision? Here are a few things to consider:

Old Age. It really is a key consideration. Keeping it clean and well-maintained will prolong its usefulness, but eventually, large components will fail. Efficiency will drop. Economically, it will make sense to replace your air conditioner. The age range for AC components is between 15 to 20, more if maintained. Research the installation year and it can help you determine the urgency of replacement.
Duplicate Repairs. Another key consideration is needing to replace the same part or similar part multiple times. When electrical control switches, sensors, and capacitors weaken and fail, this puts stress on larger motors. The stress will accumulate and lead to failure in these larger parts.
Efficiency Loss. You might notice this when the AC takes longer to cool your home than normal or struggles to cool during heat waves. Or the system might blow hot air. You might also notice a loss of efficiency when you open your utility bill each month—more than the rise attributed to inflation.

Before you assume the worse, have your AC unit checked; this might indicate the loss of coolant gas. Sealing the coolant line and recharging the system is an easy fix.

Efficiency Loss. Another indication of efficiency loss is higher humidity in your home. Surfaces might feel sticky, or the air may feel heavy and wet. High humidity might promote the growth of mold or mildew, so the air may smell musty. The coolant gas is also responsible for removing humidity, so let a technician check your system. Again, this is an easy fix.

If the coolant pressure is fine with a marked loss of efficiency, it may indicate deeper problems for AC Repair.

Unusual Noise. The noise your AC makes should be minimal; you may hear the blower motor and the whoosh of air near the vents. Screeching, squealing, or rattling noises are not normal. When the normally slight noise becomes loud or unusual, this needs to be addressed. Noise can come from moving parts, such as the blower motor, or it can come from the stress on stationary parts.

If your aging air conditioner is experiencing a combination of these indicators, it is sending early warning signs of failure or AC Repair. By listening to your system, you will be able to plan accordingly. The early warning gives you time to shop around to find a brand and contractor. It gives you time to schedule the installation.

Most of all, you avoid replacing your air conditioner under the duress of an emergency; that emergency will most likely happen during the hottest part of the summer or the coolest part of the winter when your aging system is under significant stress.

Have questions about AC Repairs? We can help!

Schedule your free AC Repair consultation by calling AllCool AC & Heating at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email.

August 12, 2022August 12, 2022

6 Most Common Residential AC Repair Issues

Residential AC Repair

Walking out of the summer heat into an air-conditioned space is a special feeling; it might elicit a deep sigh while crossing the threshold. When you step into that same space, expecting comfort and being disappointed will elicit a groan. A little bit of panic might grip you if your AC fails at home.

Instead of panic, let us suggest a few action steps to help you diagnose the problem and assist the repair technician upon arrival.

Step one, check the thermostat. The wall-mounted switch calls for cooling when the temperature climbs above a preferred setting. If the thermostat screen is blank, a battery might be the fix you need. Someone might have bumped the thermostat up a few degrees for personal comfort. Start with the thermostat.
Step two, check the circuit breaker. The air conditioner is one of only a few appliances that are hard-wired directly from the service panel. Flipping a circuit breaker might restore the cool air, but it might also be an indicator of a larger problem.
Step three, check the air filter. A clogged air filter can reduce enough airflow through the evaporator chamber to decrease cooling.

An HVAC Residential AC Repair professional will investigate the entire system to determine the problem(s) that is keeping your home warmer than desired. Common Residential AC Repair problems they might find include:

Check the thermostat and power connections, verifying your findings.
Check the air filter and general maintenance of the system.
Low or no refrigerant. The tech will check the gas pressure. Refrigerant gas operates under high pressure and gas under pressure will find weaknesses and flows to try to escape. Low gas reduces the cooling capacity of the system. That could be the problem.
Ice build-up on the evaporator coil. The evaporator removes humidity from the air while cooling the air destined for your home. Several problems can lead to moisture freezing on the coil instead of dripping down to the drain pan.
Component failure. The condenser, compressor, and blower motor are the major air conditioner components that will be carefully inspected.
Electrical controls and sensors. Your AC system uses very complex switches, capacitors, and temperature sensors.

The professional team of Residential AC Repair technicians at AllCool has vocational training, on-the-job training, and years of experience in inspecting and repairing air conditioners of various makes. It is unlikely that you will face a problem that our team has not corrected several times. We are committed to restoring comfort to your home and family.

Have Indoor Air Quality Issues?

Schedule your Residential AC Repair assessment by calling AllCool AC & Heating at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email.

May 26, 2022

Air Conditioning Hurricane Preparedness Tips

Air Conditioning Hurricane Preparedness – Start Your Preparation Now!

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is set to predict the 2022 Atlantic Hurricane season in a few days.¹ Early indication is that it will be active and storm intensity seems to have increased over the past decades. Residents in coastal communities should take measures to prepare homes and lives for a hurricane event this year. As part of these measures, make sure you follow our Air Conditioning Hurricane Preparedness Tips!

Measures to Take Before a Storm

While NOAA makes predictions for the 6-month hurricane season, The National Hurricane Center actually tracks storms as they develop over the south Atlantic. When a significant storm approaches land, they issue a warning 36 hours in advance to let residents make final Air Conditioning Hurricane Preparedness steps for the storm. However, some preparations should be made well in advance of a hurricane.

Schedule Routine Maintenance

Both your HVAC manufacturer and HVAC professionals recommend annual maintenance to help your system perform efficiently over many years. Preventative maintenance includes cleaning dust buildup in hard-to-reach places, inspection, and testing key electrical components, and paying close attention to the refrigerant gas needed for proper function.

If your system is poorly maintained before a hurricane puts great stress on the air conditioner, it can sustain greater damage from the storm.

Air Conditioning Hurricane Preparedness: Protect your Outdoor AC Unit

If your outdoor condenser unit is in a low-lying area, consider elevating it to avoid water damage. It should be set on a concrete slab as a firm foundation.
Tie-Downs. Make sure your condenser unit is securely fastened to the concrete slab with hurricane tie-downs. While it may appear large, it is constructed of lightweight material and can be moved by violent winds.
Check with the manufacturer for a hurricane weather-proof covering for the AC condenser unit. Local home improvement stores may also carry them. A covering, installed after the AC has been powered off, can prevent water damage from heavy rain. Be sure to remove the cover before restoring power to the air conditioner.

Purchase Emergency Supplies in Advance

State and local governments provide emergency preparedness plans that encourage you to purchase food, water, flashlights, batteries, first aid kits, etc. You are encouraged to make these purchases in advance of a hurricane warning to make sure supplies are available.

Measures During the 36-Hour Warning

Anticipate that hurricane-force winds (+74 mph) will damage the power grid and cause a power outage. In the process, power will blink on and off several times; each time that happens, it creates a power surge. Since even small power surges can damage computers, we plug sensitive equipment into power strips with surge protectors.

Your HVAC system may have a power surge protector installed inline to protect the system.
Whether your system has a power surge protector or not, turn off your HVAC system during a hurricane to protect it from potential damage.
- Turn your thermostat to the Off position
- Flip the breaker at your electrical service panel for both AC and furnace

Cool Down

Knowing that you will turn the AC off for an extended period, use the 36-hour time period to cool your house down. Lower the temperature a few degrees, anticipating the warm and humid air outside will quickly move indoors. Close blinds and curtains, even if your windows are covered. Continue to use ceiling and floor fans for as long you have power.

Measures to Take After a Storm

After the storm has passed and power has been restored, carefully follow the needed steps.

Remove any cover you might have placed on the outdoors AC unit
Check your power surge protector for the HVAC system. If it has tripped, reset it.
Flip the breaker for your system at the electric service panel and wait a few minutes.
Turn the thermostat to the COOL setting and set the temperature to the normal setting.

If your power is not restored, you will need to call an electrician. If your power is restored but the AC does not come on or does not cool properly, give All Cool a call.

Have Questions About Air Conditioning Hurricane Preparedness?

June begins the start of hurricane season on the Texas Gulf Coast. Let us help you with your Air Conditioning Hurricane Preparedness this season by calling AllCool AC & Heating at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email.

¹ https://www.noaa.gov/media-advisory/noaa-to-announce-2022-atlantic-hurricane-season-outlook

March 17, 2021March 17, 2021

HVAC System: Top 5 Causes of HVAC Failure

HVAC System Tips for Optimal Efficiency

Your home’s HVAC system is composed of several mechanical components working together, designed to keep your home safe and comfortable. It provides adequate ventilation, clean air and regulates temperature throughout your living space.

When each component functions properly you barely notice, but when something is wrong, everyone knows.

When your system fails you are aware of the discomfort because of seasonal temperatures. However, malfunctioning heating and air conditioning can also lower indoor air quality, affect health and raise energy costs unnecessarily. If your system fails, check these five things before you call an HVAC professional.

The Top 5 Causes of HVAC Failure

Check the Electrical Breaker

If the HVAC system will not work at all, go to the electrical panel and check for a tripped breaker. The panel door depicts which breaker supplies the HVAC system—usually, more than one breaker supplies the system. If the breaker is tripped, it is in a neutral position.

If you wiggle it gently, it will move both right and left. Turn the breaker off and then turn it to the “on” position. In both the on and off position the breaker will be firm, with no more wiggle.

If this is the only problem, the breaker will restore power to your system and it will return to normal use. The breaker might have tripped for a number of reasons. If the breaker trips again, contact a professional electrician to investigate the problem. It is no longer a DIY project.

Dirty Air Filters

The easiest DIY preventative maintenance task you can do for your system is to change the air filter. The filter will be positioned for easy accessibility and collects dust and pollutants before the air is heated or cooled. This keeps dust out of vital mechanical components and traps them before they can be redistributed.

An air filter will continue to collect pollutants even when it is dirty; however, the dust and pollen build up over time and slows the airflow, which and makes the blower motor work much harder. Plan on changing your filter at least every 3 months, but be aware that your home may require more frequent changes.

Factors such as living on a dusty road, near construction or having several pets might necessitate frequent filter changes.

Filters are readily available at hardware and DIY centers. Air filters come in a variety of materials, including washable filters for reuse. Explore your options.

Impeded Air Flow

The duct system transports clean conditioned air throughout the home, unless something is blocking the airflow. Occasionally a homeowner will not notice a room vent and place furniture or accessories on the vent, blocking airflow. Also, check the dampers on the room vents to ensure they are in the open position.

Your ductwork system may also have dampers in the main supply lines which regulate airflow. These dampers are designed to balance the flow of air for seasonal changes. If dampers are not balanced properly, you will experience uneven heat or AC in some rooms, while proper dampening will heat and cool rooms evenly. Uneven heating and cooling adds stress to your HVAC system and shortens system life.

Check the Thermostat

Thermostats are equivalent to an on/off switch, determined by air temperature in a room, typically the most used room in the house. If the switch is not functioning properly the entire system will not work properly.

Fortunately, replacing a thermostat is a simple and relatively inexpensive fix. Unfortunately, many homeowners are not prepared to diagnosis the problem.

If you suspect the thermostat might be the culprit, consult your professional for an inspection. In many cases, a new programmable or smart thermostat will help lower your utility bills and increase your comfort.

A Refrigerant Leak

When the outside temperature rises and your AC “can’t keep up,” it is definitely time to call your HVAC professional and have the refrigerant level checked. Your AC unit requires a gas coolant in a contained circuit and any crack or flaw in the circuit will allow the gas to escape.

Often the refrigerant escapes gradually resulting in decreasing performance and leading to a failure to cool. The decrease in performance is serious, as it causes the AC components to work extremely hard and leads to complete failure.

The HVAC professional might be able to find the source of the leak and replace the refrigerant. Replacing the refrigerant often makes an immediate, noticeable change.

Want more information about HVAC System Tips for Optimal Efficiency

If you are considering to better your Air Conditioning Efficiency, call us at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email.

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