Month: March 2022

Most people have air conditioners in their homes today. It isn’t uncommon for the temperature in Cypress, TX, to reach 90 degrees and higher, and it can be impossible to remain comfortable in your home without an air conditioner. Many homeowners have window units to keep each room cool; however, there are several reasons why central air conditioning is the better option.

  • Installation and removal: In late spring, you have to install multiple units in every room you want to cool, and you need to remove the units at the end of the summer. Window air conditioners are heavy, and installing and removing the air conditioners can be difficult.
  • Storage: When your air conditioners aren’t in the windows, you will need to find a place to store multiple air conditioners, which takes up a lot of space.
  • Windows: If it is unseasonably cool, you can’t open the window that holds the air conditioner, preventing you from getting fresh air into your home.
  • Closed doors: The doors need to remain closed in each room with a window unit to keep it cool. If you put a unit in a room without a door, such as the living room or kitchen, you will need to hang a blanket to keep the room cool.
  • Energy savings: Window air conditioners today are energy efficient; however, installing three or more window units will increase your energy bill more than a central air conditioning system would.

Are you tired of the hassle with window air conditioners and ready to install a central system in your Cypress, TX home? If so, there are a few things to consider before scheduling an appointment for air conditioner installation. If you consider the following factors, you should be pleased with your new air conditioning system.

#1 The Cost

Before starting the installation process, you need to create a budget. You have to figure out how much you can afford to spend on the unit and installation.

You may be tempted to buy the cheapest system you can find, but this isn’t always the best option. Cheaper systems aren’t as energy efficient as costlier models and will cost more to run. If you are willing to pay a bit more for the system, you can save money throughout the unit’s life.

If you aren’t sure which models are the most energy-efficient, a professional in air conditioner installation can help you make the best choice for your home.

#2 Quality

Although the cost will be an important factor to consider before an installation, quality is also important. If you choose a cheaper, low-quality system for your home, it won’t be as energy efficient as more expensive models. In addition, high-quality models require fewer repairs and will last longer than cheaper models. If you are willing to spend a bit more on a high-quality air conditioning system, you won’t need to replace it as quickly as you would with a low-quality system, which will save you money in the long run.

You can focus on each model’s specifications to determine which is the highest quality. If you don’t understand what the specs mean or don’t feel like doing your own research, a professional in air conditioner installation can recommend high-quality units that perform better than lower quality options.

#3 Size

Central air conditioning systems aren’t one-size-fits-all. The air conditioner you choose needs to be the right size for the square footage of your home. If you buy a unit that is too small for your home, it will constantly run to keep your home cool, causing your energy bills to increase significantly. If you choose a unit that is too large for your home, it will consume more energy, and your energy bills will be higher. In addition, the system will cool your home too quickly and will cycle on and off too quickly, which can prevent the unit from dehumidifying your Cypress, TX home. If your home is humid during the summer, it will feel warmer than it actually is.

If you aren’t sure what size you’ll need, a professional in air conditioner installation can use the square footage of your home to determine the best size.

You also need to consider the amount of space in the area you plan to install the air conditioner. A professional in air conditioner installation can take measurements in the area to ensure the air conditioner you choose has the correct dimensions and will fit perfectly in that space. If you try to do this on your own, you could end up with a system that doesn’t fit and will need to be returned.

#4 Efficient Ductwork

Air ducts are located behind the walls, under the floor, or above the ceiling and are responsible for delivering cold air from the unit to the vents throughout your home.

If your home’s previous owners had a central air conditioning system, the ductwork should already be installed. You will need a professional in air conditioner installation to inspect the ducts to ensure they are in good condition. Old or inefficient air ducts can leak up to 20 percent of the air before it reaches the vents, causing your energy bills to increase. The tech can repair damaged areas and seal the joints to ensure the cold air stays in the ducts.

If there has never been an air conditioning system in your home, you won’t have the ductwork in place, and a professional in air conditioners can install air ducts before installing the unit. This will increase the installation cost but is necessary for your air conditioner to function correctly.

#5 Energy Consumption

When planning an air conditioner installation, you want to choose a model that doesn’t consume too much energy because it will cause your energy bills to increase dramatically. When shopping around for air conditioning systems, you should check the unit’s EER rating. EER stands for Energy Efficient Rating, and it measures how well an air conditioner uses energy. A high EER rating is better because your air conditioner will provide more cooling for each Watt of energy.

An EER rating of 12 is an excellent energy efficiency rating for an air conditioner and will keep your energy bills down. You can choose a model with a lower rating, but you shouldn’t go below 8.5 because anything below this number will cost more money to run.

If you need help finding a system with a good EER rating, a professional in air conditioner installation in Cypress, TX, can help. A tech can help you choose the highest-rated model based on your budget.

#6 Air Quality

When your air conditioner runs, the windows need to stay closed, preventing fresh air from coming into the home. The air in your home will cycle frequently, and you want to ensure the air quality is safe for your family to breathe, which might require an air quality control device.

A professional in AC installation can help your find the best, most cost-effective device to improve the air quality in your home, which is essential for your family’s well-being.

#7 Durability

Durability is essential when choosing an air conditioning system for your Cypress, TX home. You want to select a unit that won’t need frequent repairs and has a long lifespan. You can do your own research by reading the unit’s specifications and reading reviews on various models. This can be very time-consuming, and if you don’t have the time or energy to do the research yourself, a professional in air conditioner installation can help. HVAC techs are familiar with most HVAC models and can help you choose the most durable system, so you won’t have to worry about issues in the future.

#8 Installing the Outdoor Condenser

Before an air conditioner installation, you need to find an area of the yard to install the condenser. You can’t just choose any location on your property if you want the condenser to function correctly. First, you should find a shady area of the yard. If the hot sun beats down on the condenser all day long, it can overheat, causing the system to shut down. Next, find an area free of shrubs and other debris. If outside debris gets into the compressor, it can cause issues that could cause the unit to shut down completely.

If you are having trouble choosing the best location, a professional in air conditioner installation can help. They can come to your Cypress, TX home to look at the property and help you choose the best location for the condenser.

#9 Additional Equipment

When the air conditioner installation is complete, it will be critical to your home’s comfort. There is additional equipment you can add to the system to keep your energy bills down, improve your home’s air quality, and can keep your home comfortable all summer long.

  • Air purifier: Your air conditioner will have an air filter to capture particles in the air. If you want more air quality protection, you can install an air purifier. Some devices capture up to 75 percent of organisms in the air, and more expensive moles can capture up to 95 percent. If a family member has allergies or asthma, an air purifier can be very beneficial.
  • Dehumidifier: Your air conditioner is designed to reduce the humidity in your home. If you live in a very humid climate, the humidity can make your home feel warmer than it actually is. In addition, persistent dampness caused by humidity can create a musty older and creates the perfect breeding ground for mold. A professional in AC installation can help you choose the right dehumidifier to reduce the humidity in your home all summer long.
  • Smart or Wi-Fi thermostat: You should consider replacing your existing thermostat during the air conditioner installation. For years, programmable thermostats were the only money-saving option. Thermostat technology has evolved significantly over the last few years, and you can buy a smart or Wi-Fi thermostat. Wi-Fi models can be adjusted using your cellphone from anywhere in the world as long as you have an internet connection. Smart thermostats work with smart devices, such as Amazon Alexa and Google home. You can adjust the settings using the sound of your voice when you aren’t home and the app on your phone when you are away. If you install either of these thermostats, you won’t need to waste time programming the thermostat based on when you’re home and when you aren’t. A professional in air conditioner installation can discuss your options with you so that you can choose the best thermostat for your needs.
  • UV lamps: It isn’t uncommon for bacteria and mold to grow on the drip pan and the unit’s indoor coils. A professional in air conditioner installation can install a UV light that fits in the unit to stop this hazardous growth, keep your family safe, improve the unit’s efficiency, and provide better airflow.

Why Choose Mr. Reliable Heating & Air?

If you are ready to install your home’s first air conditioning system, you need a professional in air conditioner installation, and Mr. Reliable Heating & Air can help. Our techs are experts in air conditioner installation and can help. We can help you choose the most energy-efficient system that is the right size for your home. Next, we will install the unit and ductwork if necessary, ensuring your home will be cool all summer long.

We also provide maintenance service, which is essential every year after the air conditioner installation to ensure the unit functions as efficiently as possible. In addition, a member of our highly trained team of techs can catch minor issues early, preventing a complete breakdown in the middle of summer. If your air conditioner stops functioning correctly, we also provide a repair service.

If you want to work with the best air conditioner installation company around, give us a call or book an appointment online.

Photo By dotspencer at Shutterstock

Your Spring, TX home is where you should feel the most comfortable. When the summer temperature reaches 90 degrees or above, you rely significantly on your air conditioner to keep your home cool and comfortable. The last thing any homeowner wants is their air conditioner to break down in the middle of summer when they need it the most. The best way to prevent a complete air conditioner breakdown is by recognizing the early signs that it’s time to call an AC repair company.

If you suspect there is an issue with your air conditioner, DIY repairs aren’t recommended. Your home’s air conditioning system is very complex and has many moving parts; therefore, it’s easy to make mistakes during the repair process. Even a minor mistake can cause the unit to shut down completely, and it will cost more for an HVAC tech to repair the problem and your error.

If your air conditioner experiences any of the following issues, it’s best to call an AC repair company right away.

#1 Faulty Thermostat

The thermostat in your Spring, TX home is your HVAC system’s brain, and it sends your commands to the unit to keep your home comfortable. If the thermostat isn’t working correctly, the HVAC system won’t get your commands, and your home won’t remain cool and comfortable.

There are a few signs to let you know that your thermostat is faulty.

  • The thermostat doesn’t light up, even after changing the batteries.
  • The thermostat is unresponsive.
  • The air conditioner cycles too frequently.
  • The air conditioner shuts down on its own.
  • The temperature in the house doesn’t match the temperature setting on the thermostat.

An AC repair company can send a tech to your home to inspect the thermostat. If the tech feels it’s time to replace your existing thermostat, you don’t have to install the same programmable thermostat. Over the last few years, thermostat technology has improved, and programmable thermostats aren’t the only money-saving option today.

Wi-Fi thermostats are very popular today. You don’t have to take time programming this thermostat, and you can control it using your cellphone from anywhere in the world as long as you have an internet connection. This allows you to turn the system down when nobody is home, and you can turn the system up before you get home, so the house will be cool when you get there.

Smart thermostats are also popular today, and they work with smart devices, such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home. You can control the thermostat using the sound of your voice when you are home, and you can use the smart device’s app on your cellphone to control the thermostat.

An AC repair company can discuss your options and the benefits of each to help you make the best decision.

#2 The AC Is Producing Warm Air

On a hot summer day, you expect the air conditioner in your home to produce cold air. If you feel warm air coming from the vents in your Spring, TX home, it may be time to call an AC repair company.

User error is a common cause of this problem, and you should check the thermostat setting before making the call.

First, make sure the thermostat is set to the cooling mode. If it’s not, the unit won’t produce cold air. Next, make sure the fan is set to “auto.” lf the fan is on all the time, it will continue running between cycles, and you will feel warm air coming from the vents. Finally, check the temperature setting. It has to be warmer in the house than the setting on the thermostat for the system to produce cold air.

If the thermostat is set correctly and the unit continues to produce warm air, it’s time to call an AC repair company. Several issues can cause this problem, and you will need a licensed HVAC tech to figure out which of the following issues is preventing the unit from producing cold air.

  • Clogged or dirty air filter: HVAC manufacturers recommend changing the air filter every 90 days. If someone in your home has allergies or you have pets, its best to change the filter every 45 days. If you neglect to change the air filter, air won’t move through the system like it should, causing the unit to overheat and produce warm air. If you aren’t sure if the filter is the problem or don’t know how to change it, an AC repair company can help.
  • Frozen evaporator coils: Your air conditioner contains evaporator coils that pull the warm air from your home to begin the cooling process. If condensation forms on coils, they will freeze and can’t do their job. An AC repair company can send a tech to your home to thaw the coils and figure out why they froze so they can prevent it from happening again.
  • Condenser issues: The indoor unit and the outdoor condenser work together to produce cold air. If there is no power going to the condenser or it fails, the unit won’t produce cold air. An AC repair company can send a tech to your home to inspect the condenser so the problem can be resolved and your air conditioner will start producing cold air again.
  • Refrigerant leak: Your air conditioner requires refrigerant to produce cold air. If the unit leaks refrigerant, there won’t be enough in the unit, and you will feel warm air coming from the vents. An AC repair company can repair the leak and refill the refrigerant.
  • Damaged air ducts: Damaged air ducts will allow the heat from outside into the ducts, causing the unit to produce warm air. An AC repair company can repair the damaged ducts, keeping the hot air outside.

The sooner you call an AC repair company, the sooner your home will be cool and comfortable again.

#3 Poor Airflow

If you stand in front of the vents in your Spring, TX home and feel minimal airflow, you should call an AC repair service as quickly as possible.

Poor airflow will make it challenging for your home to reach the desired temperature, causing the air conditioner to work overtime. When the unit works harder than it should, your energy bills will increase considerably. When the unit works harder than it should, its maximum lifespan will decrease, and you will need to spend thousands of dollars to replace the unit sooner.

A few issues can cause poor airflow, and you will need an AC repair company to determine the cause.

  • Damaged air ducts: The air ducts in your home are designed to deliver treated air to every vent in your home. The air ducts are hidden; therefore, you can’t tell if they are damaged. If the ducts are damaged, the cool air will escape from the damaged area before reaching the vents, causing restricted airflow. Fortunately, an AC repair company can send a tech to your home to repair the ducts, restoring proper airflow.
  • Clogged air ducts: Dirt, dust, and other debris can build up inside the air ducts. In just one year, up to five pounds of debris can accumulate in the ducts, restricting the airflow. In addition, when the HVAC system runs, the debris will circulate in the air, affecting your home’s air quality.
    An HVAC tech can clean the air ducts, restore airflow, and improve the air quality in your home, keeping your family healthy.
  • Faulty blower: Your air conditioner has a blower designed to force the cold air through the air ducts to the vents located throughout your home. If the blower motor fails, the air won’t be forced to the vents, resulting in minimal airflow.

Because restricted airflow affects your home’s temperature and can cost you money, its best to call an AC repair company as soon as the problem starts.

#4 Strange Smells

The air conditioner in your Spring, TX home should produce odorless air. If you smell something strange when the unit runs, you should schedule with an AC repair company. Foul smells indicate issues that could put your home and family at risk; therefore, you should make the call right away. The smell coming from the unit can help the HVAC tech determine the cause of the problem.

  • Burning: A burning smell indicates an electrical or wiring issue. These issues can spark an electrical fire that can destroy your home quickly. An HVAC tech can inspect the wiring and the unit’s electrical system to find the cause of the problem so that the necessary repair can be made.
  • Mold: A moldy smell often indicates mold in the air ducts. When the AC runs, mold spores will circulate in the air your family breathes, putting their health at significant risk. Mold exposure can cause several health issues, such as allergy symptoms, chronic headaches, respiratory problems, skin rashes, and a weakened immune system, making it challenging for your body to fight off disease and infection.
    An AC company can send a tech to your home to inspect the ducts for mold. If they find any, it can be eradicated with an antimicrobial fogger and can prevent future mold growth. If there is no mold in the ducts, it could be in the air conditioner, which is more challenging to eradicate. If the mold cannot be removed, you will need to replace the air conditioner.

#5 Strange Sounds

The air conditioner in your Spring, TX home should be relatively quiet when it runs. The most you will hear is a faint clicking sound when the unit cycles.

If your unit makes any other sounds, you should call an AC repair company. Strange sounds indicate loose or broken parts, debris caught in the outdoor fan, problems with the condenser, and various other issues that can cause more damage if the problem is ignored.

An HVAC tech can inspect the air conditioning system to find the problem so it can be repaired before further damage occurs.

#6 Leaks

The area around your air conditioning system should be dry, and moisture or fluid pooling around the unit indicates a problem requiring a call to an AC repair service.

Moisture around the unit indicates a cracked or loose condensate hose, which is a relatively simple fix.

If there is a bright-colored pool of fluid around the unit, it indicates a refrigerant leak, which is a serious issue. If there isn’t enough refrigerant in the unit, it won’t produce cold air. If your air conditioner is less than ten years old, an HVAC tech can fix the leak and refill the refrigerant. However, if your air conditioner is over ten years old, you will need to replace the unit.

Older models use R-22 refrigerant, which the EPA deemed toxic and harmful to the environment. On January 1, 2020, the U.S. government banned the production of R-22. The HVAC tech can fix the leak but won’t be able to refill the refrigerant, and you will need to have a new AC installed that uses a different kind of refrigerant.

Why Choose Mr. Reliable Heating & Air?

If your air conditioner isn’t functioning correctly and you want to work with the best AC repair company around, call Mr. Reliable Heating & Air. We ar3e a full-service HVAC company, serving customers in the area for years. Our team of professionally trained, high qualified techs can install, maintain and repair all HVAC equipment. When you call for repair service, our tech will give you an estimate before they begin the work to prevent an unpleasant surprise when it’s time to pay the bill.

Your comfort is our top priority, so we offer emergency service. If your HVAC system experiences an issue that affects your home’s comfort or puts your home and family at risk, we will get a tech to your home as quickly as possible to resolve the problem.

Many of our customers live on budgets, and we have money-saving coupons on our website. You can also get a White Glove membership for $99 a year or $8.25 per month, which comes with a few benefits, including:

  • 15 percent off standard pricing
  • One free tuneup per year on all AC systems
  • One free tuneup on all heat systems
  • Priority scheduling
  • One-hour appointment windows.

If you need to schedule an appointment with our AC repair company, give us a call.

Photo By Iraidka at Shutterstock

There are two things that we bring in our Mr. Reliable Heating & Air repair vehicles to every air conditioning repair call that make us different from other companies. We carry a full supply of most repair parts, of course, but we also have test and repair equipment, and the training to use them, along with years of experience in air conditioning repair that makes us experts at diagnosing and repairing your problem in The Woodlands, TX. It’s a given that we arrive on time, we’re known for our reliability, and once we do you’ll see an expert at work with his or her tools, many of which you’ve probably never seen before. Waving the magic wand over your AC’s evaporator and condenser coils can detect leaks, for example, and other gadgets can help us scientifically make sure one bedroom isn’t a lot colder than the other. There are a lot of routine air conditioning repairs that don’t require much science to figure out, like noticing a lot of accumulated dirt, dust, chemicals, mold, grease, and so on in your ducts, and recommended a duct cleaning service. Likewise, cleaning out your outdoor AC unit after a rough winter can be a great idea, part of annual maintenance service, even. You never know what — or who — you’ll find in there! It wouldn’t be the first time we found teeth marks on the contactor wires.

Checking the Airflow Can Save You a Lot

Replacing your air conditioning system can get your house cooler, but sometimes so can removing your kid’s laundry from the air intake. We start with the simple things when indicated by our tests or experience, to make sure we make the right air conditioning repair for your situation. If your air intake is blocked, your system doesn’t have enough air flowing through to carry all the cooling that it’s doing, and your efficiency and effectiveness will be reduced, sometimes significantly. It’s a lot like having a really dirty air filter, and in both cases, you can actually wind up with more repairs, as the fan motors and belts can wear prematurely trying to get air to move, while the evaporator coil, starved of flowing air to keep the moisture it removes from freezing, starts to ice up. Now that’s a reason to have your kids clean their rooms! It’s just one of many airflow issues that we frequently sort out as part of our air conditioning repair process.

Rivers and Streams of Air

If the vents into your rooms are blocked by furniture, clothes, books, pets, or whatever, you’ll get reduced airflow into that area. The air pressure has to go somewhere, though, so you’ll get more coming out in another room, possibly reducing the temperature more than you want. Doubly so if the thermostat is in the warm room, as the system will keep pushing cool air to bring the temperature down, and the blocked vent will divert all or some of it to that cold room and make it even colder. Don’t worry if you can’t quite describe the problem when you call us, just tell us what you know, like “my bedroom is freezing cold by itself and I don’t know why.” We’ll figure out the mystery. One way that we detect trouble that’s not as visible as a blocked vent is by using air flow meters that tell us how the air pressure is doing in different parts of your vent system or room. These devices, plus our experience, help us accurately balance the distribution of cool air, and scientifically get your home more comfortable.

Vents Are Like Plumbing, But They Leak Cool Air

Our air conditioning repair team in The Woodlands, TX pays a lot of attention to your home’s vents because they’re the delivery system for the work your AC does. If the vents have been damaged or are getting older and leak, you’re losing cool and air pressure at the same time, an AC performance problem that can be easily fixed in most cases by a simple repair. When we perform regular duct cleaning service, we not only remove all the mess that’s accumulated in there from the air that blows through, we also take a look at the ducts and notice any issues that need attention. One problem that some homeowners experience is malfunctioning dampers in their ducts. Those are little doors that some systems use to divert airflow, often located along the main line which runs in your attic or other inconvenient location. If a damper door gets stuck, it can cut off airflow to some areas of your home. The same thing happens if it’s not responding to your AC system’s commands to open or close. Our air conditioning repair experts will get a feeling when they suspect that a damper door is messing up your flow, it’s a lot like when a clog appears in your pipe, and air measurements will provide good evidence.

Cool Gadgets and Pretty Pictures of Your Ducts

Another way to diagnose problems when hot or cold air or water is flowing is infrared imaging. Those are the colorful pictures that, interpreted by our air conditioning repair experts, indicate areas where temperature changes are occurring that might indicate trouble. A quick dropoff might mean a leak, while a slower one might indicate the cool air in your uninsulated attic duct is getting warmed along the way. Infrared imaging can also identify heating and cooling problems of other kinds, such as issues along your refrigerant lines and in the coils that show hot or cold spots where repairs are needed. For the big picture, energy efficiency experts use this technology to take pictures of your entire home and reveal where the insulation is missing or too thin in the walls and roof. As you can tell, a big part of our air conditioning repair team’s objective is to make sure you get the most out of your AC system as well as keep it functioning. In fact, a system that has tight ducts, solid refrigerant lines, and is in generally great shape can help your AC system work less and last longer while still keeping your home nice and cool.

Don’t Go Sniffing for Refrigerant Leaks, Let Us Do It!

Refrigerant leaks can smell sweet or something like chloroform if you’ve ever smelled that. That odor is toxic, and using your nose isn’t the best way to find problems with your AC or any other refrigeration system. Our air conditioning repair experts have a sniffer device that can help them find even pinhole leaks in your refrigerant lines and coil systems, helping you to avoid recurring repair like annual refrigerant recharging that’s costly for you, especially as refrigerant costs rise, and often bad for the environment as well. As your refrigerant disappears, so does the efficiency of your AC system, and your system’s compressor won’t be happy, either. In fact, if you hear a loud squeal from your system outside, it’s time to hit “pause” on your AC and call our air conditioning repair team, as it’s quite possible that low refrigerant is damaging your compressor and you don’t want that to continue at all.

When It’s Time for a Refill, and Other Refrigerant Line and Coil Issues

Our air conditioning repair experts can add refrigerant in most cases, or replace it with an equivalent type. Some have fallen out of favor due to problems with the environment or other issues, so it’s important to let our experts figure out the right way to approach a low refrigerant problem. We’ll put the right kind in there and make sure we capture any old refrigerant that needs to be removed. This cooling material makes the magic of compressor-based AC work and also makes heat pump possible flow into your home, through evaporator coils, back out to the condenser coils, with a kick by the compressor along the way. When your system does dual duty, there’s a special valve that reverses the process for heating and cooling, but our air conditioning repair team experts and their mobile parts supply are right for heat pumps, too!

Electrical Testing and Diagnosis

While refrigerant and compressor technology are at the heart of your AC system, electrical equipment manages the operation. Our air conditioning repair team in The Woodlands, TX finds trouble with the thermostat more often than you’d think, a simple and essential repair that can get your system going again. If there are other AC noises, smells, or leaks that you’ve been concerned about, make it a dual-purpose trip and ask about those once the system is running again. There are several key components in the outdoor cabinet of your AC system that we typically service, the capacitor and contactor. Years of solid service can wear them out, but also dust, dirt, and other materials blown in can disrupt their operation. Even the invasion of little critters building nests during the winter can cause all sorts of havoc inside the cabinet and require an air conditioning repair visit to get your system ready to run. In fact, checking for these kinds of problems is part of your annual AC maintenance visit, so make sure yours is scheduled ahead of summer cooling season in the Woodlands, TX!

When Motors Stop, Cooling Doesn’t Flow

Another advantage of AC maintenance service is testing electrical equipment, including motors, using standard and more advanced electrical test gear. We can inspect your wires, then measure to make sure they’re properly connected, check relay coils and other components, and most of all check motor operation. An aging motor will show up differently on our test gear than a new one, so we can recognize when your fan motors are getting close to failure and replace them at maintenance time, rather than on an emergency visit when they’re working hard during the summer. Preventive maintenance is powerful! Our expert air conditioning repair people know where to look to find developing problems as well as current ones, which can save you a lot and keep you comfortable as well.

Motor Wear and Coil Icing from an Unchanged Air Filter

It’s always worth mentioning that reduced airflow from your fan motors trying to pull air through a clogged air filter can cause many problems. In fact, even blocked intakes around your house can contribute to that. When the air filter is clogged, usually because it hasn’t been changed in a couple of months, the motor and fan belts wear more as they work hard. The air passing through the evaporator coils keeps the moisture they condense from freezing, so when airflow is low, you can get icing on the coils. The ice can disappear when the unit’s not operating, but you should probably have our air conditioning repair team check out the root of the problem. It’s also important to leave coil deicing to them, otherwise, you may get into the realm of needing that leak sniffer device to find small pinhole damage from deicing, or even wind up replacing an expensive coil unit. And yes, don’t forget to change that air filter!

Air Quality Technology

Your standard air filter protects your system from damage by removing airborne particles, fur, dirt, dust, and other debris that’s big enough to make a mess in your coils and other locations in the system. They don’t take care of everything airborne, as shown by how dirty the ducts get in a couple of years. We provide duct cleaning but also specialized HEPA sub-micron filtration, air purifier systems, germicidal UV lamps, humidity control, and other indoor air quality features attached to your duct system for great indoor air. Ask our air conditioning repair team about them!

Air Conditioning Repair in The Woodlands, TX

For the experience and technology you need for reliable air conditioning service, trust Mr. Reliable Heating & Air and our expert team. We keep your HVAC system in The Woodlands, TX running reliably and efficiently. Call us today and see!

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Property owners in The Woodlands, TX, rely heavily on their air conditioning systems to cool their homes during the long, hot summer season. Naturally, you want to get as much value out of that system as possible before investing in a new one. However, if your old AC unit barely limped along last summer and it needed air conditioning service calls a few times in order to keep working, it may be time to discuss AC replacement with Mr. Reliable Heating & Air. Deciding on whether or not to replace your AC unit is a big decision. Depending on its condition, you might be able to get another summer out of it. Or, you might be paying more than you want to for utility bills because of its inefficient use of energy. The following information will help you decide and acquaint you with the AC replacement process.

Air Conditioning System Age

If your air conditioning system is nearing the end of its lifespan or has surpassed it, you may already have needed air conditioning service to keep it running. Repairs and replacement parts are common as your HVAC system gets older. However, pay attention to how many air conditioning service calls you’re making and how much you’re paying for new parts. There comes a point when you’re putting too much money into a unit that simply won’t last for another summer or two. At that point, you may want to talk about an AC replacement with a skilled technician from Mr. Reliable Heating & Air.

Poor Operation

Did you find that your aging air conditioning system was struggling to cool your home last summer? That’s a common occurrence as AC units reach the end of their lifespan. You’re forced to pay for your AC’s operation even if it’s not doing a good job of cooling your house. In fact, you might even be paying more than necessary as the unit works overtime, struggling to maintain the temperature set on your thermostat. In these cases, it’s usually time to think about having the unit replaced, especially if its poor operation is accompanied by numerous air conditioning service calls.

Inefficient Energy Use

Older air conditioning systems won’t work as efficiently as new models. There have been many technological advances in HVAC design that allow these systems to work more efficiently. More efficient operation means that the unit requires less energy to cool or heat your house while still providing optimum temperature control. It’s possible that you could save a few hundred dollars annually on energy costs simply by upgrading your HVAC system.

Types of Repairs

Replacing a wearing belt is one thing, but replacing more expensive and major components of your old AC unit is another story. When you contact Mr. Reliable Heating & Air to place an air conditioning service call, we can explain why your part has failed and how much it will cost to replace it. You may find that the cost of replacing a major part isn’t worth the expense when you can more reasonably use the money paid on that repair toward replacing the unit with a new, energy-efficient model.

Consult with the Experts at Mr. Reliable Heating & Air

Mr. Reliable Heating & Air has helped hundreds of customers all over The Woodlands, TX decide on the right time to replace their existing air conditioning systems. We serve our customers with honesty and integrity. We don’t try to upsell customers and we always present them with accurate information so that they can make informed decisions about moving forward with any type of air conditioning service repair or an AC replacement.

When we visit your home, we can inspect your AC unit and provide you with a thorough report of its condition along with our recommendations. Sometimes, with proper maintenance, it makes sense to get a few more summers of use from an aging unit, simply because the repairs are minor and the unit is still functioning well. In these cases, property owners have more time to start saving for a new AC system and to consider the various options they might choose to install.

On the other hand, if our technician determines, upon inspecting your unit during an air conditioning service call, that it’s in poor condition and has actually become unsafe to operate, we can advise you about how best to proceed with a replacement. We know how hot it can be in The Woodlands, TX. So, if you choose to replace your AC unit, we can move quickly to help you source the ideal model for your home; then, we can install it right away.

Choosing a New Air Conditioning System

Anytime you have to replace a major home system like an AC unit, it’s a big purchase decision. Today, there are many different options to consider. The certified air conditioning service technicians of Mr. Reliable Heating & Air make it a point to stay up to date with the new AC models that enter our industry each year. We know who the most dependable manufacturers are. We can definitely help our customers choose the best make and model for their home and budget.

Talking Turkey: How Much Does an AC Replacement Cost?

A new residential central air AC unit costs, on average, between $4,000 – $7,000, including installation. However, some units run as low as $1,200. Mr. Reliable Heating & Air frequently features specials so we always encourage our customers to check our website to learn about any current incentives. Sometimes our specials include a percentage of an air conditioning service like AC repairs or replacement.

Keep in mind that the cost for an AC unit varies considerably depending on the make and model you choose as well as its size. A price quote this summer will probably look different the next simply because new products enter the market. Because there are many options to choose from, you can rely on the expertise and advice of our HVAC pros.

Energy Efficient Performance

When choosing a new AC unit, you’ll want to consider its energy-efficient operation. Note the model’s SEER number. The higher the number, the more efficient the unit. Why wouldn’t anyone want to choose the most energy-efficient model for their home? Well, those most energy-efficient models tend to be the most expensive models. Even so, because of the cost savings associated with reduced energy bills, customers can usually recoup the extra cost well before the unit nears its suggested lifespan, which may run anywhere from 10 to 15 years.

On the other hand, many property owners in The Woodlands, TX are concerned about reducing their footprint and conserving energy. Choosing an energy-efficient AC unit will help you do just that. These air conditioning systems operate with less energy but still provide optimum cooling functionality. The result is that they are better for the environment as well as your pocketbook when it comes to monthly energy expenses.

Financial Incentives

When you place an air conditioning service call with Mr. Reliable Heating & Air to discuss your AC replacement, we can discuss whether or not there are any manufacturer incentives associated with the models you’re interested in. Sometimes manufacturers offer reduced rates for specific models or rebates. Our company stays up to date with what the most reliable manufacturers have to offer clients. We’re always happy to pass on this potential money-saving information.

Warranties

When considering new air conditioning units, always ask about their warranties. That could impact your purchase decision. Our licensed HVAC technician can help you understand the ins and outs of the warranty for the model you select. Having a clear understanding of its terms is crucial because you certainly don’t want to void the warranty. For instance, some warranties are rendered void if you ever hire someone who isn’t certified to provide air conditioning service on the unit.

Noise Level

Finally, when you choose a unit, you’ll want to learn about how noisy it may be. That could alter your decision. A noisy air conditioning system can be a nuisance. AC units that have a variable speed blower tend to operate more quietly than those that don’t. Be sure to mention your noise preference when you consult with one of our heating and air conditioning service technicians during your air conditioning service consultation.

Important Considerations for Air Conditioning System Installation

When you go shopping for your AC unit, definitely consult with your installation expert from Mr. Reliable Heating & Air. It’s essential to select a model that is the right size for your home. It can’t be too small and it shouldn’t be too big. Our experienced heating and air conditioning service technicians can ensure that you purchase the right size unit for your house.

Keep in mind that an AC unit that’s too small is going to have to work extra hard than the right-sized unit in order to cool your home to your thermostat’s temperature setting. When your unit has to work extra hard, you will need to pay extra on energy costs. You’ll also very likely be making extra air conditioning service calls to address the extra repair needs that inevitably accompany units that are too small to properly cool the home. Another downside, besides more frequent breakdowns, of a small-sized unit is that it’s likely to require replacement sooner than a unit that is sized right. The extra wear and tear on the unit and the damage from frequent breakdowns can definitely reduce its longevity.

Conversely, you don’t want to buy a unit that’s too large for your house either. While it won’t struggle to cool your home, it will guzzle up much more energy to operate than a right-sized unit. So, you’ll be paying more on energy bills than is reasonable for your home in The Woodlands, TX.

When you consult with Mr. Reliable Heating & Air, we’ll ensure that you don’t wind up with the wrong sized unit. We will make the calculations and help you determine your home’s cooling needs. Then, you can choose a model that’s a perfect fit.

Proper Air Conditioning Installation Is a Must

It’s crucial for property owners to have their new AC system professionally installed by a certified HVAC technician. Poor installation can lead to a whole host of problems. In fact, it can ruin a perfectly good unit and squander your investment. Air conditioning systems demand attention to detail when it comes to their proper installation. Mr. Reliable Heating & Air features a team of certified heating and air conditioning service technicians who have proven experience to install and replace air conditioning systems. Our pros have experience installing all types of residential AC units. You can trust their expertise. Moreover, we stand by the quality of our workmanship.

Other Considerations

When you contact Mr. Reliable Heating & Air for an air conditioning service call, we can discuss other important details of your installation. For instance, when installing a new AC unit, you may opt to install a smart thermostat at the same time. Smart thermostats will help you enhance your unit’s energy efficiency even more because they get to know your cooling preferences. You will never have to walk into a hot house again, but you also don’t need to let the unit run all day to maintain the house’s comfortable temperature. The thermostat will begin the cooling process before you are typically due home from work, for example.

When you’re installing a new air conditioning system, it’s also the ideal time to repair any ductwork that needs addressing. You can place an air conditioning service call and we’ll visit your home in The Woodlands, TX to make these additional repairs and upgrades as needed.

Choose Mr. Reliable Heating & Air if you need any type of heating or air conditioning service. Our technicians are friendly, experienced, and known for their excellent work. Be sure to ask us about our maintenance plans for new AC installations so we can help you maintain your new unit and keep it functioning at its best.

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As any resident of The Woodlands, TX will tell you, temperatures can vary from freezing cold in winter to well over one hundred degrees on a scorching summer day. It is vital that your HVAC is running properly all year round to cover these temperature extremes.

The last thing you want is for your HVAC to break down and put you and your family at risk and you want a trustworthy heating and AC repair company to quickly come to your aid. That is why most people turn to Mr. Reliable Heating & Air, who has highly trained technicians available 24/7 whatever the weather.

A Regular Service Can Help You Steer Clear of a Heating and AC Repair

We at Mr. Reliable Heating & Air love to help people. But we would much rather visit your home in The Woodlands, TX to give your HVAC a regular service than to be called out for a heating and AC repair.

During the summer living conditions inside your home will rapidly become unbearable, with rising temperatures and deteriorating air quality. These are dangerous times if you are looking after either the young children or older family members. And it may be some time before your HVAC can be repaired. You can help to avoid this dangerous scenario by having your HVAC routinely checked and serviced by one of our experienced technicians.

This service from Mr. Reliable Heating & Air will considerably lessen the risk of needing a heating and AC repair. It will also reduce your energy bills and prolong the working life of your HVAC. It will spot likely problems early on and replace any damaged components before they break down and need a heating and AC repair.

A Mr. Reliable Heating & Air technician is going to be very busy in The Woodlands, TX during the summer months, so we suggest that you book your service during the early spring when things are a bit quieter. This way you can choose an appointment slot that best suits you. After the service, your HVAC will be fighting fit for the long summer months, giving you peace of mind when you need it the most.

What Goes on During an HVAC Service?

An annual HVAC service is something that Mr. Reliable Heating & Air strongly encourages all our customers to have. As the average repair bill for the HVAC can often run into hundreds of dollars, you can see that it makes good financial sense to have a service.

So, what will happen during an HVAC service from one of our highly trained technicians?

  • Cleaning or replacing dirty air filters.
  • Coolant levels in the HVAC are checked.
  • The inside of the HVAC unit is cleaned.
  • Air ducts are checked for damage or leaks.
  • The evaporator coils are cleaned.
  • Thermostats are recalibrated if necessary.
  • The fans and blower are checked for any damage.
  • Electrical circuits are checked for loose connections.
  • Plus, many other checks.

Once the full HVAC service has been completed, our technician will inform you of any problems they have found and carry out any remedial work once you have authorized it.

How Does an HVAC System work?

The HVAC system is comprised of two main sections, a cooling, and heating part.

The cooling part contains components like the evaporator coils, the compressor, the condenser, and cooling fins. Copper tubing connects to all these components and the coolant within the copper tubing will remove the heat from inside your home and carry it outside. A fan removes the warm air from inside your home and blows it over the evaporator coils.

The coolant inside the coils absorbs the heat from the warm air, which is now cooler and is blown back through air vents around your home. The coolant as it absorbs the heat from the warm air changes states from a cold liquid to a warm gas.

The compressor moves the gas along the tubing into the condenser. The gas is squeezed further and reaches a higher pressure and temperature. The gas now passes through the cooling fins, and with the aid of another fan, the excess heat is given to the outside air. The hot gas is changed back into a cool liquid coolant again and then continues its journey back to the evaporator coils with the cycle repeating.

The heating part of your HVAC consists of the furnace, which is the largest component of your HVAC. The furnace pulls in fresh air from the outside which passes through an air filter to remove any pollutants. Some of the air enters the combustion chamber and is mixed with gas or another fuel.

This mixture is ignited and heats the remaining air, which passes over a heat exchanger. The heated air contains dangerous exhaust gasses like carbon monoxide and needs to be ejected back outside again. More fresh air is blown over the heat exchanger which is heated up and carried into your home through the air vents with the help of a blower fan.

A thermostat chooses which part of the HVAC works, when it is cold the furnace works and if it is too hot the air conditioner works.

Is There a Way to Prevent a Heating and AC Repair?

Even an HVAC that is well looked after, can suffer a breakdown. It is expensive trying to arrange repairs over the weekend or in the evening but if you are alert to the following signs could save on that expense. If you have not had a service before then having one now will make better use of your money than paying for an expensive repair.

Big Increase in Your Energy Bills

You expect your energy bill to go up as you use your HVAC all the time during the scorching summer or a cold snap. But if your energy bills go up by more than you expect this may be due to a problem with a component within your HVAC. A problem with one component causes others to work harder in maintaining the temperature. As the component works harder it will use more energy and so your bills go up. The component will also suffer extra wear and tear and is more likely to overheat and break down, needing a heating and AC repair. After an annual service from Mr. Reliable Heating & Air, this will be less likely to happen

You Experience Short-Cycling

If you notice that the compressor is turning itself on and off too often you may have a short-cycling problem. A typical HVAC will have a cooling cycle of about twenty or so minutes. This means that the compressor will switch on for ten minutes and then off for another ten minutes.

This will complete an effective cooling cycle for your home. If your compressor switches on and off faster than this, you will not be receiving the full cooling effect from your HVAC. The more often the compressor switches on and off the more likely it is to break down and need replacing during expensive heating and AC repair.

There can be several causes of short-cycling, and these include frozen evaporator coils, low coolant levels in the HVAC, and dirty air filters. These issues can be dealt with during an annual service, but if ignored will eventually lead to a heating and AC repair.

Cooling Effect Is Diminished

A problem with any component will lower the cooling effect from your HVAC. For example, without the right level of coolant, the evaporator coils will be unable to extract as much heat from the warm air blown over them and the air blown back into your home will be warmer. Dirty air filters will also reduce the cooling effect and these need to be replaced regularly.

Faulty Fans

The cooling effect is also lessened by a faulty fan, which will reduce the airflow over the evaporator coils. You should take note of any strange noise that comes from the HVAC, but a grinding or squealing sound probably means that you have a worn-out fan belt or bearings. A loud banging sound is likely caused by a loose or bent blade striking the inside of your HVAC. The blower fan in the furnace can make loud squealing noises.

It Feels More Humid

Another sign of trouble is that it feels more humid inside your home. It is a fact that warm air contains more moisture than chilly air because moisture is more likely to condense into the water at colder temperatures. The more warm air blown back into your home the more moisture it will contain and the more humid it will feel.

Other Strange Noises May Require a Heating or AC Repair in the Woodlands, Texas

If you hear any strange noises coming from the HVAC unit, it is never a good sign. We have covered faulty fans earlier, but anything out of the ordinary noises could mean a breakdown is imminent. You ignore any strange noises at your own risk, the HVAC could be suffering damage needing a heating and AC repair.

Odd Smells

The inside of your HVAC is given a good clean during the service. As a component heats up, any dust and dirt particles that have settled on them could give off a burning smell. Any burning smell means that there is an increased risk of a fire, so please shut the HVAC down, and call Mr. Reliable Heating & Air immediately for a heating and AC repair

Thermostat Issues

To run efficiently your HVAC needs correctly calibrated thermostats. Heating and AC repair company can prevent thermostats from going off course. Any badly calibrated thermostat will record an incorrect temperature mistaking the room to be either too hot or too cold. This causes your HVAC to waste energy in making your home the wrong temperature.

Poorly placed thermostats will have the same result, any placed near an open window or door will also misread the temperature as will ones placed in direct sunlight. As a result, your HVAC works harder and longer than it needs to, increasing not only your energy bills but also the wear and tear on it.

Problems with the Furnace – Signs You Need Heating and AC Repair

A service will pick up on the problems with the furnace and reduce the risk of needing an expensive heating and AC repair bill.

Damaged heat exchanger – as the heat exchanger takes energy from the combustion gasses and heats the temperature of the air, any damage will reduce ant heating effect and will most likely require an emergency heating and AC repair in The Woodlands.

To frequent heating cycles – this is similar to short-cycling and will turn the furnace on and off too often and will lead to it breaking down and needing repair.

You see a flickering pilot light – this is normally a sign that carbon monoxide is building up in the furnace. This is a serious and dangerous problem and needs to be dealt with quickly. We advise all our customers to have carbon monoxide detectors installed in their homes for their safety.

Your HVAC Is Getting Old Means It Is Time for a Heating and AC Repair in The Woodlands, Texas

With regular servicing, your HVAC will have a useful working life of about ten to fifteen years. As it gets older the components in the HVAC experience more wear and tear. The HVAC will become less efficient and more expensive to run. Many older models will use Freon as a coolant, and it has become more difficult to source as it is no longer made or imported into the USA.

An older model may no longer be made, making it more difficult to find spares, which will get more expensive to buy. If your HVAC is starting to need more heating and AC repair jobs it may be time to think about buying a replacement.

A new replacement model is not going to be cheap, but you will recover this expense over time because it will become more economical to run. We at Mr. Reliable Heating & Air are delighted to help the people of The Woodlands, TX decide what unit best suits their needs and budget.

The Woodlands, TX’s Best Heating, and AC Repair Company

Mr. Reliable Heating & Air has been the leading heating and AC repair company in The Woodlands, TX for many years and has earned a reputation for their high-quality work at prices everyone can afford. When you need a heating and AC repair, please call Mr. Reliable Heating & Air now.

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Are you suddenly feeling hot and sticky inside your home? If your air conditioning system is falling down on the job of cooling your home this summer, you can rely on Mr. Reliable Heating & Air to get your AC unit back into gear. As a leading AC repair company in Spring, TX, we tackle AC installation, replacement, maintenance, and, of course, all manner of repairs. Our HVAC technicians are certified and experienced. If you find that your AC unit isn’t blowing cool air from your vents, it could be due to a number of reasons.

Clogged Filter

If the air filter of your AC unit is dirty or becomes clogged, it can lead to airflow problems. In fact, when there are filter problems, you may even find that warm air is coming from your vents–the very opposite of what you want to experience during a mid-July in Spring, TX! That’s because a clogged filter can sometimes cause larger problems for your AC unit.

In most cases, a clogged filter will cause the back of your AC unit to feel very hot. When the filter is extremely dirty or clogged, it forces the air conditioning system to work overtime, and that leads to more heat. When a unit has to perpetually work overtime, the result is usually more frequent breakdowns. It can even reduce the longevity of the unit, forcing the owner to make an early system replacement. Your AC repair company can help.

The Air Isn’t Cold Enough

A dirty air filter could also reduce the coolness of the air blowing through your vents. Why does this happen? The cool air must flow through the filter to eventually emerge through your vents to cool your interior space. When that filter is dirty and clogged, it blocks the cool air; the result is reduced cooling of your home–and that uncomfortable sticky feeling that accompanies most summers.

You’re Sneezing More

A clogged air filter can also trigger people to have more allergy attacks. You might find that you’re sneezing more around your home. Increased sneezing and reduced cold air blowing through your vents are typically a sign that a filter change is needed.

Your Electric Bill Is Higher

In Spring, TX, most people are used to seeing their bills for electricity increase, but if your bill is skyrocketing and you’re not experiencing great temperature control, it could be owing to a dirty filter.

In most instances, it’s a good idea to replace your unit’s air filter every three months. Mr. Reliable Heating & Air can inspect your unit carefully if you discover that it’s been blowing hot air instead of cold air. Our AC repair company can quickly troubleshoot the system to determine what’s wrong. Typically, we begin our inspection with the air filter as that’s such a common problem for property owners.

Refrigerant Leak

If you notice that cold air isn’t blowing through your vents, your AC unit may have developed a refrigerant leak. Our AC repair company tackles lots of refrigerant leaks, which are common problems. Your air conditioning system’s refrigerant absorbs heat; it’s what ensures that the air is cool. If a leak develops, there is less refrigerant to maintain that cold air, and you’ll notice a decrease in the coolness you feel in your home.

Warm, Humid Air

One of the first signs of a refrigerant leak is that you feel warmer inside your house. It’s easy to dismiss this feeling if you’re performing household chores, but if the feeling persists, you’ll want to pay attention to your unit; there may be a problem and it may be time to call an AC repair company.

Hissing Noise

Another sign of a refrigerant leak is a sound that’s reminiscent of hissing. If you hear a hissing sound coming from your unit, there’s a strong possibility that there’s a leak. In fact, you should call our AC repair company any time that you hear an unusual sound coming from your HVAC system.

Icy Frost Buildup

If you notice that your air conditioner has developed an icy frost on it, you likely have a refrigerant leak. Our technicians will determine where the leak is occurring and make the fix as quickly as possible so you can enjoy a return to a cool and comfortable home.

Higher Electric Bills

A refrigerant leak can cause your electric bills to spike. During summer, running your AC unit to cool your home will already cause those bills to increase, but if there’s a refrigerant leak, your unit is taxed to work harder in an attempt to cool your home. Because the leak prevents the system from hitting that cool air target (set by your thermostat), it just continues to work, which will cause your bill to increase substantially. It can also lead to a breakdown and reduced longevity of your AC system.

Mr. Reliable Heating & Air will bring everything needed to address a potential refrigerant leak. Our AC repair company fixes these types of leaks for customers all summer long. Our technicians can repair any make or model AC system, ensuring that your leak is shored up and your home is cool again.

Thermostat

Speaking of thermostats, yours could be causing your AC unit’s problem. Check your thermostat setting if you’re not getting any cold air through your vents. A sign that your thermostat is going bad is that it gives faulty readings. If the thermostat is registering a reading that you know is inaccurate, you should call our AC repair company to inspect it. Thermostats can develop other problems, too, including:

AC Unit Turns on and off–Too Much

The techs at our AC repair company get suspicious of a thermostat when the AC unit keeps turning on and off. That’s frequently a sign that the signals between your thermostat and AC system are experiencing a communication breakdown. Usually, when the unit stops communicating with the thermostat, the fault is with the thermostat. Our AC repair company can send a skilled technician to your home to evaluate the problem. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of a frayed wire. If your AC unit’s thermostat needs replacing, we can tackle the job right away.

Continual Temperature Shifts

If you experience constant temperature shifts inside your home, it could also indicate a thermostat problem. Your AC unit should be providing you with a consistently cool temperature. Certainly, Spring, TX, summers can be intense, but your AC unit shouldn’t experience temperature shifts if you leave the thermostat setting unchanged. If you experience this issue, simply call your trusted AC repair company, Mr. Reliable Heating & Air, and we’ll send an AC repair tech to your home to check it out.

Thermostat Isn’t Responding to Changes

If your vents aren’t delivering cool air the way you’re accustomed to and you turn the thermostat down with no response, the problem could, again, be with the thermostat. If your thermostat is old, it may be time for a replacement. This is one of the problems you might expect from an aging thermostat that has become faulty.

If your thermostat is to blame for your warm air problem, our AC repair company can replace it for you. There are many types of thermostats on the market today. If you’re interested in upgrading yours to a programmable one, simply let us know.

Dirty Condenser or Evaporator Coil

Your AC system’s condenser is located outside of your house. For that reason, it can be vulnerable to dirt and debris. When the wind picks up in Spring, TX, it can blow dirt and dust that settles on your unit. While the filter should help with this problem, it may not be enough to keep the condenser clean. If the condenser or coils get dirty, the result is that cold air stops blowing from your ducts.

Of course, you may not be able to tell that the problem is dirt and debris. When you contact our AC repair company, we’ll send a technician to your home to inspect the unit. As part of our inspection, we’ll carefully assess the condenser. A buildup of dirt and debris could be at the root of the problem. Sometimes debris buildup can cause other problems too. Our technician can recommend the ideal fix.

Clogged Suction Lines

A severely dirty condenser may not be the only problem. Dirt and debris can also cause clogged suction lines. It’s crucial to contact our AC repair company to clear the lines. If this problem is left unchecked and your AC unit continues to be overtaxed, it can lead to the unit’s failure.

Refrigerant Leak

As we mentioned, a refrigerant leak can be causing warm air instead of cool air to blow through your vents. If the leak is spilling onto your condenser coils, the problem is more substantial. But don’t worry! When you contact Mr. Reliable Heating & Air, your trusted AC repair company, you can count on us. Our AC repair company handles AC problems like this all the time. We’ll send a licensed technician to your home to correct this issue.

Mechanical AC Unit Problems

Your air conditioning system will experience wear and tear of its mechanical components over time. When one of its parts fails, the result could be warm air blowing out of your vents on a hot August day. Don’t let that ruin your day when our local AC repair company can quickly address the problem. Mechanical issues require a thorough inspection. Our technicians can troubleshoot why your unit isn’t functioning properly. If we identify a faulty part, we can replace it.

Sometimes a faulty part can cause other damage to your air conditioning system. So, you can rely on us to test the unit so that we have a clear picture of its operation. It’s not uncommon for some air conditioning systems to develop more than one problem at a time as one small issue can lead to a larger one.

Before we dive into your repairs, we’ll always check with you first. We will provide you with a report of why your AC unit isn’t functioning properly and what is required to correct the problem. We can also provide you with a quote for the repair work at this time.

AC Unit Replacement Time

Many of our Spring, TX, customers are operating older AC units. Even with the best care and maintenance, no air conditioning system lasts forever. If your AC unit is at the end of its span and breaking down frequently, you might choose to forgo repairs and simply invite our AC repair company to replace the unit. Mr. Reliable Heating & Air also specializes in HVAC replacements. We can help you make the ideal decision for your home–and budget.

Replacing an old AC unit may be a good idea for other reasons. Certainly, you don’t want to continue to pay for repairs if the unit is breaking down frequently. The cost for the repairs adds up. On the other hand, if you are not experiencing numerous breakdowns, it may simply be the ideal time to start considering replacement.

Some of our Spring, TX, customers choose to replace their old AC units in order to install a new, energy-efficient model. Today’s units are, unsurprisingly, more advanced than the units of a decade ago. Investing in an energy-efficient AC system can help you reduce your electric bills without sacrificing your climate control.

Our AC repair company technicians can help you choose the ideal model for your house. It’s extremely important to choose the right size model as one that’s too small will have to work overtime to cool your home, which can lead to reduced longevity of the system and frequent breakdowns. On the other hand, if the unit is too large, you’ll wind up paying more than you need to in energy costs.

Choose Mr. Reliable Heating & Air if you are considering an AC unit replacement or if you experience any AC problems like warm air blowing through your vents. We offer emergency AC services too. Call us to learn more about our heating and cooling solutions.

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You need to be comfortable in your own home. Sometimes, though, your heating or air conditioning unit stops working the way it should. When this happens, it’s crucial to find a repair service you can trust. Here are some of the most common heating and AC repair services.

Heating Repair Services in Katy, TX

If your heater isn’t working, it’s challenging to keep your home warm. Although the temperature rarely dips below 30, heat is essential for those 40 degree nights. And even though freezing cold doesn’t happen often, it’s dangerous for you, your pipe, your pets, and your home to go without heat.

A heating and AC repair service can help you get your heater back up and running in no time, so you don’t have to worry about cold floors nipping at your toes and wearing layers inside. They will inspect your unit to determine the cause of the problem and fix it quickly and efficiently.

What Are the Most Common Heating Repairs in Katy, TX?

Several common problems can occur with your heater. If you’re experiencing any of the following issues with your heater, you likely need a heating and AC repair service:

Not Enough Heat

When your home isn’t getting warm enough with the heat on, it could be because of a problem with your furnace. Some reasons your furnace might not be putting out enough heat could include a dirty filter, bad igniter, or a clogged nozzle. Another typical cause is a blown fuse. The fix may require changing the filter, replacing the fuse, or cleaning the nozzle.

But if it’s something more serious, like a bad igniter, the service will need to replace the part. A heating and AC repair service can inspect your furnace to determine the cause of the problem and fix it.

No Heat at All

If your furnace isn’t putting out any heat, it could be because of a problem with your thermostat, the pilot light, or the heating elements. The fix might be as simple as replacing the thermostat or relighting the pilot light. However, if the problem is with the heating elements, you might need a new furnace.

A heating repair and AC repair service can help you determine the cause of the problem and fix it so you can start getting the heat you need. HVAC professionals have the tools and knowledge to get your heater running again in no time.

Blowing Cool Air

If your furnace is blowing cool air, it may be because the ignition is malfunctioning, clogs in the condensate line, or a large duct leak. Several fixes might be quick and easy, like cleaning the condensate line or changing the air filter.

However, you might need a new furnace if the problem is more serious, such as a clogged heat exchanger. A heating and AC repair service can help you determine the cause of the problem and fix it.

Making Strange Noises

If your heater is making strange noises, it could be a sign that there’s something wrong. Other causes of strange noises could be a problem with the blower, the belt, or the bearings. The fix may require changing the filter or cleaning the nozzle.

A heating repair and AC repair service can help you determine the cause of the problem and fix it. They carry all the parts and tools necessary to get your system working again.

Turning On and Off Frequently

If your heater is turning on and off frequently, it could be a sign that it’s not working correctly. Typical causes include a faulty thermostat, a dirty filter, or a problem with the wiring. These are a few of the most common issues that can cause your heater to turn on and off frequently.

A heating repair and air conditioning repair service can assist you in determining the source of the problem and resolving it. They have the tools and expertise to get your heater running smoothly and efficiently.

Not Shutting Off

If your heater stays on even when your thermostat is turned off, it’s likely because of a problem with the thermostat, the wiring, or the furnace. These are all common problems that can cause your heater to run continuously. A heating and AC repair service in Katy, TX, can help return your system to regular working order.

Leaking Water, Fuel, or Gas

If you’re seeing water, fuel, or gas leaking from your furnace, it’s time to call a heating and AC repair service. The service will inspect your furnace to determine the cause of the leak and fix it. This type of problem could be dangerous and requires immediate attention.

Other factors can affect the complexity of your HVAC repair service. A common difference is the source of heating. For example, a gas furnace will have different repair needs than an electric furnace. This is just one reason it’s vital to choose a heating and AC repair service.

Importance of Regular Maintenance for Your Furnace or Boiler

Most HVAC repair services offer preventive maintenance packages that will help keep your system running efficiently. Typical tasks included in preventive care are changing the filters, cleaning the coils, and check the wiring. By having regular maintenance done, you can avoid costly repairs in the future.

It’s essential to have regular maintenance done to keep your furnace running smoothly. Preventive care for your heating and AC system can help catch minor problems before they become big ones.

These steps are even more critical in Katy, TX, because you don’t use the unit as often as people living in the northern parts of the state. Also, the high temperatures and humidity can cause your system to wear down faster if it’s not maintained correctly. Choose a heating and AC repair service in Katy to get the job done right.

AC Repair Services 

Summers are hot and humid in Southern Texas. Like your heating system, it’s common to experience air conditioning problems that require a heating and AC repair service. If your AC isn’t working correctly, you’ll quickly become uncomfortable. And overheating is as dangerous as it is unpleasant for you, your family, and your pets.

Several common problems can occur with your AC unit. The most common issues are with the compressor, the fan, or the coils. A service technician can help you determine the source of the problem and fix it.

It’s essential to choose a qualified and experienced AC repair service to ensure the job is done correctly. A faulty repair can end up costing you more money in the long run.

What Are the Most Common AC Repairs in Katy, TX?

Like with your heating system, there are a few typical repairs your AC unit may need. While some of these might be manageable to fix yourself, the best solution is to call a professional.

Here are some problems you might experience requiring heating and AC repair services.

Blowing Warm Air

No one wants to feel hot air coming from their vents on a 90-degree day in Katy, TX. If your AC isn’t blowing cold air, it’s likely because of a problem with the compressor, the fan, or the coils. The repair might be as simple as replacing a filter or cleaning the coils or more complex. Don’t try to troubleshoot the problem on your own—call a professional.

Water Leaking from the AC Unit

If you’re seeing water leaking from your AC unit, it’s likely because of a problem with the condensation line. This type of repair is complex and should only be handled by a professional. It requires dismantling the AC unit, so it’s best to call a heating and AC repair service.

AC Not Turning On

Your air conditioning unit not turning on is as frustrating as only getting hot air from the vents. This could be one of several problems, such as a blown fuse or a tripped breaker. It’s best to call a professional to diagnose and fix the problem. The fix might be as straightforward as replacing a fuse or resetting a breaker, but it’s best to have a professional take a look. Contact a heating and AC repair service in Katy to get your service working again.

Frozen Coils

If the coils on your AC unit freeze, it’s likely because of a problem with the refrigerant. The coils will need to be defrosted, and the refrigerant will need to be recharged. It could also mean you have a problem with the blower motor, which will need to be replaced. This is a complex repair that a professional should only handle. Choose heating and AC repair services with an excellent reputation and experienced technicians who can handle this type of repair.

Drainage Problems

If the water isn’t draining properly from your AC unit, it’s likely because of a clog in the drainage line. The drainage line will need to be cleared, and this can be done by blowing compressed air through it or using a plumbing snake. This is an easy fix for a professional but can be difficult for the average homeowner.

No matter the problem with your AC unit, it’s best to call a professional to diagnose and fix it. Don’t fix the problem yourself or hire an inexperienced technician. The best way to ensure the job is done correctly is to hire a reputable and qualified heating and AC repair service in Katy, TX.

Thermostat Errors

If your thermostat isn’t working properly, it can cause your AC unit to malfunction. The thermostat might need to be replaced or recalibrated. Either way, it’s best to call a professional for this type of repair. An incorrect installation can make the problem worse and could end up costing you more in the long run.

Also, depending on the age and make of your AC unit, you might need to consider a replacement. If your AC unit is over 10 years old, it might be time for a new one. A new HVAC system is an excellent option for those looking to upgrade their home and improve their comfort level.

The latest air conditioning units are more energy-efficient, so you’ll save on your energy bill in the long run. A heating and AC repair service company can help you decide if a replacement is the best option for you and work with you to choose the right unit for your needs.

Noisy Unit

If your AC unit is making strange noises, it’s likely because of a problem with the fan or the compressor. A professional can check the unit and fix the problem. The repair might be as simple as tightening a screw or replacing a part, but it’s best to call a heating and AC repair service.

Bad Odor

If your AC unit is giving off a bad odor, it’s likely because of a problem with the coils or the insulation. The coils will need to be cleaned, and the insulation might need to be replaced. However, another explanation for the bad odor could be a problem with the drainage line. The drainage line will need to be cleared and disinfected.

Tripping Circuit Breaker

If your AC unit is tripping your circuit breaker, it’s likely because of a problem with the wiring. The wiring will need to be checked and, if necessary, replaced. You might also need to upgrade your electrical panel. This is a tough job that a professional should do.

No matter the problem with your AC unit, it’s best to call a professional to diagnose and fix it. Don’t try to fix it yourself or hire an inexperienced technician. The best way to ensure the job is done correctly is to hire a reputable and qualified heating and AC repair service in Katy.

Importance of Regular Maintenance for Your AC Unit

It’s important to have regular maintenance done on your AC unit to ensure that it’s running properly and efficiently. A professional can clean the coils and check the insulation. They can also tighten any screws that might be loose. Regular maintenance will help prevent costly repairs in the future.

If you’re having any problems with your AC unit, it’s best to call a professional. The best way to ensure the job is done correctly is to hire a trustworthy and qualified heating and AC repair service in Katy, TX. Mr. Reliable Heating & Air has an excellent reputation and experienced technicians who can handle this type of repair. So don’t wait – contact us today for all your heating and AC repair needs!

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An emergency with your heating and air conditioning service can be an extremely serious matter. And that’s why you never want to underestimate what’s going on with your system. Instead, you want to make sure that you’re getting it taken care of as quickly as possible and definitely by a professional. The important thing is to recognize when you have a need for emergency heating and AC repair in Spring, TX, and then to get it taken care of as quickly as possible.

Do You Need Emergency Heating and AC Repair?

When you first notice that there’s something strange about your heating and AC system you might not know if you need emergency heating and AC repair. You might think that it’s not a big deal or that it’s okay to wait at least a little while. No one really wants to call a professional for emergency heating and AC repair, right? But there are definitely some situations where you need to do it for the safety of your family and even just for the quality of your Spring, TX home.

The Humidity Is Going Up

You should have a humidity of no more than 50% in your home in order to be comfortable and protect the house itself. If your humidity level is too high it can allow mold and mildew to grow, which are extremely dangerous for your home and for your family. They can cause a whole lot of damage and they can cause illness as well. You want to avoid all of these problems. So if your humidity levels are going up and up then it’s a good idea to call an emergency heating and AC repair company to find out whether your air conditioner just might be to blame.

You’re Hearing Noises

Ultimately, your HVAC system is going to make some noise, right? It’s made some kind of noise since the day that it was first installed. But that means you know what the noises are when it’s working the right way. You know how it sounds and how it should sound. If it’s making other sounds you know that there’s a problem that you need to get looked at. Well, you should be getting emergency heating and AC repair if you notice that there are a lot more sounds or especially if you notice sounds like grinding or clanking that could mean parts are loose and causing serious trouble.

It’s Letting Out Warm Air

You want your air conditioning system to keep your home cool. If you notice that instead it’s letting out warm air and not changing the temperature of your home or it’s actually increasing the temperature of your home then it’s time to look at the options and start calling a Spring, TX emergency heating and AC repair company. They’ll be able to help you figure out what’s going on and what you need to do next to get it fixed. That way, you can get your air working again before the temperatures get too high.

It Just Keeps Running

If your system is turning on and off frequently and seems to turn back on immediately after it turns off you could have a problem with the thermostat or the condenser or any other part of the unit. You shouldn’t notice that your system goes on and off frequently because it means there’s definitely something going on that shouldn’t be. Instead, you want to be aware of when this is happening and call a professional to take a closer look at you. They can find out if the issue is something minor that can be adjusted quickly and easily or if it’s something that needs a bit more work.

You’re Smelling Something

In general, you shouldn’t smell anything when your HVAC system is running either. If you do it could mean that something is overheating or something isn’t working the way that it should be. Once again, this is something you should already know about when things are working well. SO if your HVAC system is working the way that it should you should know what it’s going to smell like. If you notice anything else it’s time to call an emergency heating and AC repair service to get it taken care of for you right away. That way, you can rest assured there’s nothing serious.

Even more importantly, if you notice a rotten egg smell you should get your family out of the house immediately and call an emergency heating and AC repair professional. Don’t worry about what time of day or night it is. A rotten egg smell is a sign that you could have a gas leak and it’s something that should never be taken lightly. Even if you only suspect there might be a problem, get your family out first, call a professional, and then decide if there’s anything that needs to be done. When it comes to a potential gas leak you are absolutely better off being wrong than ignoring it.

Your Circuit Breaker Trips

If you notice that your circuit breaker is tripping when you’re using your furnace it’s important to call about emergency heating and AC repair. A professional can take a look at your system and figure out just why the furnace is tripping the circuit breaker. While you may or may not think of this as an emergency it can actually be a fire hazard, which is why you need a Spring, TX emergency heating and AC repair professional to take a look at it right away.

Your Flame Turns Yellow

Have you noticed that the flame inside of your furnace is yellow? If you notice this it’s another important time to call an emergency heating and AC repair company to get it taken care of. Your flame should actually be blue when it’s working properly. If it is then it means your furnace is running on the right combination of gasses and burning off the right combination as it runs. But if you notice your flame turning a different color it means that there’s something else going on in the system that could be dangerous.

A yellow flame is a sign of carbon monoxide and it means that the balance of gasses in your furnace is definitely off. This is extremely important because carbon monoxide is toxic and can be fatal if inhaled. You and your family need to have working carbon monoxide detectors to protect against this, but you also should be aware and take a look at your furnace occasionally to know what is going on with the unit itself and the flames. If it turns yellow that means you have too much carbon monoxide and you need to call a Spring, TX emergency heating and AC repair company.

Are You Dealing with Puddles?

Puddles could be a sign that something is leaking in the furnace. Or you might notice icicles if there’s a problem with the AC unit. Either of these means that water is definitely somewhere that it shouldn’t be. When it comes to the AC it could mean that you have a problem with the evaporator coils, the filter, or any number of things. With the furnace, it typically means there’s a leak somewhere that’s letting water get where it shouldn’t.

The important thing about either of these is that you need to get it fixed to reduce the risk of damage to the unit and damage to your home. If you have a lot of water leaking in your home it can cause mold and mildew. And it can definitely damage your floors and walls and anything in your home as well. You want an emergency heating and AC repair company to take a look and figure out what they can do to get rid of those leaks quickly. That way your home and your family are safer and more comfortable in your home.

What Happens Next?

So, you’ve noticed one of the problems that we talked about above and now you’re not sure what you need to do. The good news is you can get things taken care of quickly and easily. All you need to do is know who you’re going to call to get the job done and you’ll be on your way to a system that works and is safe in no time at all.

You need to start doing your research early on before you actually need that emergency heating and AC repair company. You want to look online and talk to friends and family and neighbors about services that they’ve called and the kind of work that they’ve had done. Getting feedback and support from people you know is going to be the best way to find a company you trust to get the job done. After all, you trust your family and friends to give you the best possible advice, right?

Once you’ve started narrowing down your list you can find out more about the type of general and emergency heating and AC repair needed that a particular professional can offer. You want to make sure that they actually offer emergency heating and AC repair services. That may mean actually calling them up to see what’s available or checking out their website to see what’s listed. When you have a general need you can find a lot of services that can take care of it, but if you’re looking for emergency services it can sometimes be harder to find what you actually need.

Make sure the company that you’re looking at actually offers emergency services rather than just general services. You don’t want to find yourself in an emergency situation in the middle of the night and no one that you can call to take care of it for you. By doing your research before there’s a problem you can cut down on the risks of this happening to you. Taking a few minutes to call around and verify everything before there’s an emergency will definitely save you a lot of hassle and discomfort later on. So make sure you’re doing what you can right away.

Once you’ve got it figured out who you’re going to call then all you need to do is give them a call. You can get any service that you need to be done quickly and easily if you work with the right team and that’s where you’re going to know whether you’re on the right track. If you don’t have any idea who to call, that’s okay. It can take some time to do all that research, but we can definitely help you with the process of getting the right plan in place and making sure you have the right team coming to your home.

Getting the Help You Need

If you’re ready to get someone to your home to take care of any of your needs it’s time to call Mr. Reliable Heating & Air in Spring, TX. Our team is dedicated to getting the job done for you, no matter what you may need. If you’re looking for a minor service we can get to your home when it’s convenient for you and get it taken care of. That way you and your family don’t need to deal with any problems. But if you have a major service we can get to you as well. That’s going to be essential if you notice an emergency heating and AC repair need.

When you give us a call we’re going to be ready and able to come to you in no time at all. Just pick up the phone and let us know what’s going on. We can get someone to you right away so you and your family can feel comfortable and safe in your home. You don’t want to deal with an emergency situation that could be hazardous for your family or your home. So don’t sit around and wait when there’s any kind of emergency situation. We can help you with any emergency heating and AC repair you may need and we’ll do it with a team that you like and trust.

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If you live in Cypress, TX, you can agree with us that air conditioners have a vital role to play in our lives, particularly in summer, when the weather gets extremely hot. Although you rarely think about your air conditioner, it works extremely hard to keep your indoor air within a comfortable range no matter how hot the weather outside gets. However, like any other electrical appliance, your air conditioner is not going to last forever. With proper maintenance, your air conditioner should serve you for about ten to fifteen years. Therefore, no matter what you do, there will come a time when you will need to replace your air conditioner. Towards the end of your air conditioner’s lifespan, it will start developing issues that will signal that the time for a new air conditioner installation has come. Therefore, by working with a professional HVAC expert, it is not difficult for you to know when the risk time for a new air conditioner installation comes. Below is a rundown of the signs or issues that should prompt you to start considering a new air conditioner installation for your Cypress, TX house.

The Age of Your Air Conditioner

As mentioned above, even manufacturers of air conditioners do not design air products to last forever. Therefore, air conditioners come with an expiry date. On average, air conditioners serve homeowners for about ten to fifteen years. Therefore, if you have used your air conditioner for more than a decade, you need to start thinking about a new air conditioner installation. If you continue relying on an old air conditioner to keep your Cypress, TX home comfortable, you will lead your life worried that it might fail you when you need it the most. This is because air conditioners that have outlived their lifespan are always at the risk of developing irreparable problems. Therefore, for the sake of your peace of mind, you need to get a new air conditioner installation before your air conditioner’s expiry date. If you do not know when your air conditioner was installed, a professional HVAC expert can help you check its serial number to determine when it was manufactured. Your HVAC expert will then assess the condition of your conditioner’s essential components and advise you accordingly.

Your Air Conditioner Uses R-22 Refrigerant

Your air conditioner uses a refrigerant to keep your indoor air cool. Different brands and models of air conditioners rely on different types of refrigerants to work. In the past, the R-22 refrigerant was one of the most common refrigerants for air conditioners. Therefore, if you are using an old air conditioner model, it is quite likely it could be using the R-22 refrigerant. However, a couple of years ago, the federal government banned the importation and manufacturing of R-22 in the United States. This was done after studies showed that this refrigerant is not good for the environment since it damages the ozone layer. Therefore, although it is not illegal to continue using your old air conditioner with its R-22 refrigerant, you should consider a new air conditioner installation for the sake of protecting our environment. In any case, R-22 refrigerant is no longer available in the United States, and therefore, if your air conditioner’s refrigerant level drops for some reason, it will be impossible for you to refill it, meaning that you will need to seek a new air conditioner installation anyway.

You Are Facing an Expensive Repair

Like any other machine, your air conditioning equipment is not going to run flawlessly. Therefore, you have to accept that you will need to get it repaired for various issues from time to time. However, depending on how old your air conditioner is, some air conditioner repairs are not worth the amount they can cost you. For instance, if your air conditioner is broken and its compressor needs to be replaced, it might not be economical for you to spend money on such a repair, particularly if your air conditioner will need to be replaced in the near future. This is because air conditioner compressors are extremely expensive, and putting your money in such a repair will not solve other age-related air conditioning issues that your air conditioner will start developing as it approaches the end of its lifespan. Therefore, in such a situation, getting a new air conditioner installation will be a better and more financially sound decision compared to replacing the broken compressor.

Inadequate Air Flow

One of the most common obvious signs of a failing air conditioner is inadequate airflow. If you can’t feel enough cool air coming through the vents, then your house will not get cooled adequately. Some of the most common causes of this problem include malfunctioning blow fun, a dirty evaporator coil, and clogged air filters. Whatever the underlying cause of the problems might be, you need a professional HVAC expert to diagnose it quickly. HVAC professionals deal with such issues every day, and they have the necessary experience and technical know-how to determine what needs to be done to resolve your issue in the most efficient way possible. Depending on the severity of the underlying cause of the problem and the age of your air conditioner, your HVAC expert might try to repair it. However, if the issue is beyond repair or too expensive to repair, your HVAC expert might advise you to seek a new air conditioner installation, especially if the air conditioner is almost reaching the end of its lifespan.

More Frequent Air Conditioner Repairs

As mentioned above, your air conditioner, like any other machine, will undergo wear and tear, meaning that it will need to be repaired from time to time. However, as long as your air conditioner is well maintained, the calls to your air conditioner repair service should be few and far between. Therefore, if you have to seek air conditioning repair services every few days or weeks, there is something out of the ordinary. The problem can occur due to issues, such as poor maintenance, incorrect installation, and age. But whatever the underlying cause of frequent air conditioner breakdowns might be, the problem will obviously take a toll on your peace of mind. This is because air conditioner breakdowns usually cause serious inconveniences, and repairs can be quite expensive. For you to decisively solve the issue, you should consider a new air conditioner installation. As long as your new air conditioner installation is done correctly and the equipment is serviced properly, your air conditioner will run optimally, meaning that you will no longer have to worry about frequent air conditioner breakdowns.

Air Conditioner Blows Warm Air

Your air conditioner is essentially supposed to cool your home. Therefore, if it is blowing warm air instead of cool air, you could be facing a major air conditioning failure. Your air conditioner can blow warm air due to several reasons. For instance, if the refrigerant level is low due to a leak, your air conditioner might blow warm air. Similarly, if your condenser coil is covered with dirt, your air conditioner will fail to release the heat absorbed from your indoor air and eventually blow warm air into your house. Other common reasons your air conditioner might blow warm air include a broken thermostat, a faulty compressor, and clogged filters, among others. Therefore, when you notice that your air conditioner is blowing warm air, you will need to call a professional HVAC expert to diagnose the underlying cause of the problem and ensure that it is fixed in the most efficient way possible. If the issue is a result of a compressor failure, you might be forced to start considering a new air conditioner installation. This is because trying to repair the compressor is unlikely to succeed, and replacing the compressor entirely might be too expensive and uneconomical, especially if your air conditioner is relatively old.

A Sharp Rise in Electricity Consumption

Of course, you are conditioner is one of the most significant consumers of electricity in your house. However, the amount of electricity it needs to keep your Cypress, TX home comfortable should be consistent from one year to another. Therefore, if you notice a sudden unexplained increase in your electricity bills, then it is likely that your air conditioner is losing efficiency. It is worth noting that your air conditioner will naturally lose its efficiency with age. However, with proper maintenance, you can keep your AC operating optimally throughout its life. Therefore, if you have been taking good care of your air conditioner, but you have noticed its electricity consumption has suddenly gone up, you could be facing a major air conditioning failure. In such a situation, you will need to call a professional HVAC expert to assess your HVAC equipment and determine what the underlying cause of the problem might be. If your air conditioner is over ten years older, you may have to seek a new air conditioner installation to minimize energy consumption in your house and save money in the long run.

Unusual Air Conditioner Noise

Obviously, your air conditioner is not designed to run completely silently. If you have used it for more than a few months or years, you definitely know its natural sound, and it is nothing to be worried about. However, if your air conditioner has suddenly started producing an unusual noise, then you could be facing a serious air conditioning failure. For instance, a gurgling sound might be a sign of a refrigerant leak, which will need the immediate attention of a professional HVAC expert. A metal screeching sound might indicate that your fan motor bearings are worn out, while a hissing sound could be a sign of a compressor problem. However, unless you are a professional HVAC expert, it will be hard for you to link every unusual air conditioning sound to a specific problem, and therefore, you will need a professional HVAC expert to diagnose the underlying cause of any particular air conditioning noise and provide an appropriate solution. If the air conditioning noise is due to a malfunctioning compressor, you might need to consider a new air conditioner installation.

High Humidity In Your House

Having high humidity in your Cypress, TX home can be extremely uncomfortable. The good news is that in addition to cooling your house, your air conditioner should also help with reducing humidity in your house. If you have noticed that your air conditioner is working hard, but humidity remains high, you could be facing a major air conditioner failure. Some of the reasons your air conditioner may fail to remove excess humidity from your indoor air include a clogged evaporator coil, incorrect thermostat settings, and leaky ducts. The size of your air conditioner can also affect its performance insofar as regulating humidity is concerned. For instance, if your air conditioner is too big for your house, it will cool your home quickly but fail to get rid of the excess humidity. But whatever the cause of your air conditioner’s failure to remove excess humidity might be, you can count on your HVAC expert for an accurate diagnosis and a decisive solution. If the issue cannot be resolved through a simple repair, your HVAC expert will advise you to get a new air conditioner installation. When you decide to replace your air conditioner due to humidity issues, your air conditioner installation services provider should guide you in ensuring that you pick the right kind of air conditioning equipment depending on the size of your home.

The Bottom Line

Overall, it is apparent that many HVAC issues can force you to get a new air conditioner installation. Given how expensive air conditioners can be, this is not a decision you should make on your own unless you are a professional air conditioner installation expert. Therefore, when you notice any signs of air conditioning failure in your Cypress, TX house, you need to consult a professional HVAC expert to help you determine the most appropriate solution. If you are looking for a dependable HVAC contractor providing air conditioner installation services in or around Cypress, TX, Mr. Reliable Heating & Air is an excellent choice. Feel free to contact us today for more information about our company and air conditioner installation services.

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Storm season is around the corner and, in some respects, it’s not uncommon for a severe storm to pass through The Woodlands, TX, any time of year. Usually, when storms blow through town, we worry about our patio furniture, our roof, our landscaping, and maybe even the potential for flooding. Actually, you might want to keep your HVAC system in mind too. Mr. Reliable Heating & Air specializes in heating and AC repair for customers in and near The Woodlands, TX. Sometimes, severe storms wreak havoc with HVAC units, especially with air conditioning systems because of their outdoor location. While you can’t prevent storms from coming to town, you may be able to protect your unit and decrease the need for heating and AC repair after a terrible storm.

How Can Storms Damage Your HVAC System?

Storms can damage your HVAC system in a number of ways. Knowing where your units are most vulnerable can help you prepare for storms and better protect your essential systems with heating and AC repair.

HVAC Unit Won’t Turn Back On

Your furnace and air conditioning system may be vulnerable to power surges. If the storm knocks out power and then the power suddenly comes back on, the power surge created with this action could trip your circuit breaker that handles your HVAC system. You’ve probably heard of power surges ‘frying’ appliances, which is why many people in The Woodlands, TX, rely on surge protectors for their homes. In most cases, your circuit breaker will protect your heating and AC systems from surge-related damage. You simply reset the breaker.

On the other hand, if the unit doesn’t turn back on, you may need heating and AC repair. Mr. Reliable Heating & Air contends with issues like these frequently after powerful storms move through The Woodlands, TX. Our certified HVAC technicians have the skills needed to troubleshoot these types of power-related problems.

Strange Noises

If your furnace or AC unit makes strange noises after a storm or at any time, it’s always worth checking out. Unusual noises tend to be cause for concern when it comes to HVAC systems. Our heating and AC repair technicians can inspect your units to determine why it’s making strange sounds. Sometimes it’s simply that a twig has gotten into the unit and is getting caught up in the fans. On the other hand, there could be a mechanical problem that needs checking out. If a storm has caused your unit to make unusual noises, call Mr. Reliable Heating & Air and we’ll send a skilled heating and AC repair technician to inspect your system.

Water Is Encircling Your Unit

If water has pooled around your furnace because of flooding or even around your outdoor AC unit, you should turn off the power at your circuit breaker–providing you can access it safely. If the weather forecast is calling for severe weather and your area is prone to flooding, you may even want to turn off the power to these systems before the storm hits just in case. That’s entirely up to you.

Water and electricity don’t mix. While your outdoor AC system is designed to withstand rain, it should be submerged. If water is pooling around it, there’s a risk of damage to your unit as well as a risk of electrical shock if anyone comes in contact with the submerged or partially submerged system. The region has seen flooding and rough weather before. That’s why it’s important to monitor the news when severe weather systems are forecast for our area.

Insufficient Cooling

Rain and flooding aren’t the only problems when it comes to storms. Severe wind can also cause your AC unit to malfunction. After the storm, if you discover that your AC unit isn’t blowing cool air as it did before, it may have incurred some wind damage. We can send a heating and AC repair tech to your home to troubleshoot the problem.

Falling Trees and Tree Limbs

Trees and tree limbs can spell disaster for property owners during storms. There have been cases where uproot trees have fallen on homes or outdoor AC units. A large heavy tree branch could fall and damage an AC unit as well. There have even been cases when the roots of a leaning tree actually begin to lift up the unit from the ground. These are definitely major problems that are likely to require a visit from our heating and AC repair technicians.

Storm Prevention Tips for Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system is, of course, a major aspect of yours. It’s important to protect it. In The Woodlands, TX, we know how quickly storms can occur. The key is to take prevention steps before the storms hit town. Here are a few measures you can take to protect your HVAC system during severe storms.

Secure Your Unit

How secure is your condenser unit? What about your second-story air conditioner? When was the last time you checked? It’s important to be sure that your exterior units are as secure as possible before a severe storm blows into town. For upper story AC units, consider investing in hurricane straps. If your AC unit is in an area that is likely to flood, consider having our HVAC team mount it on higher ground.

Whole-Home Surge Protection

Consider a heating and AC repair company installing a whole-home surge protector to protect all of your household items from surges. A whole-home surge protection plan means you don’t have to rely on individual surge protectors for the various appliances in your home. Whole-home surge protectors are a great investment because they not only protect large appliances like refrigerators but also your home’s wiring, which connects your HVAC system and other major electrical devices throughout your home.

Turn Off Your HVAC System

Another way to protect your HVAC system and guard against the necessity to hire a heating and AC repair technician is to simply turn off your unit before the storm hits. You can turn off the power to your AC system, for example, right at your breaker box. Once the storm subsides, you can turn the breaker back on if all is well.

Cool Your Home before the Storm Hits

The humidity can be pretty sticky. We know that turning the AC unit off during the duration of a storm can be uncomfortable for humans and pets. Consider cooling off your home thoroughly before the storm arrives before you turn the unit off. This way, the home should remain reasonably cool for a while. Precooling is a great way to prepare for a spring or summer storm. Be sure to keep the doors and windows closed to keep the cold air inside unless there are tornado warnings and you’re instructed to open the windows.

Cover Your Condenser

There are weatherproof covers that you can use for your outdoor condenser unit or you can simply cover it with a tarp that’s designed for AC systems. This can reduce the risk of water damage or from blowing debris getting into the unit. During heavy winds, it’s not uncommon to see lots of flying debris blow through The Woodlands, TX, yards. You’ll want to make sure that the tarp is secure by fastening it to the ground before the storm arrives. Once the storm is over, you can remove the tarp and reuse it the next time an extreme weather system comes to town. Talk to your heating and AC repair provider for more information.

Remove Lawn Furniture

During a powerful storm, lawn chairs and other patio furnishings can become missiles when they’re airborne. To prevent deck or patio furniture from being blown into your condenser unit or into your home’s windows, for that matter, be sure to remove them and stow them safely in your garage. For larger pieces, you may want to secure them to the ground using stakes. Plant containers and kids’ toys can also pose risks to your AC unit and other property. Be sure to remove and store any items that could pose a risk because of strong winds.

Trim Trees

If you have time, trim any trees that have dead or dying branches. During a powerful storm, these limbs can be knocked down by strong winds. They can fall atop your AC unit and do significant damage. They can also fall onto power lines, knocking out the power to your home. Additionally, if you have trees located on your property that are dangerously close to your house, consider tree removal if they are in poor health. Diseased trees are a property risk. During a storm, these trees can more easily topple over than healthy trees. Although this isn’t a job for a heating and AC repair tech, you can contact your local tree service for advice about how to handle a diseased tree.

After the Storm

After the storm subsides, inspect your HVAC system. If you cover your AC condenser with a tarp, you can remove it once the weather clears up. In fact, you should not leave the tarp to sit on the unit when the weather clears up. The tarp will likely trap moisture, and that can cause rust or mold. But talk to your heating and AC repair company for more information.

If there is debris around the unit, carefully remove any branches or limbs that may have fallen. Unless the unit sustained a direct hit from a falling tree limb or has suffered noticeable damage, you can turn your unit back on to test that it’s functioning properly, but only if the unit isn’t in a pool of water or is caked with debris.

If it’s inundated with water and debris, you should first contact Mr. Reliable Heating & Air to send out a heating and AC repair service technician. Let us carefully remove the debris and inspect your system. We’ll ensure that it’s safe to turn on and use. Debris and, certainly, water can cause the unit to overheat. When that occurs, damage to individual parts and components can occur too. Once your system incurs damage, you’ll definitely need heating and AC repair service–and probably some new parts.

Contact Your Home Insurance Carrier

If your condenser system has suffered extreme damage during the storm–has been struck by lightning or a tree has fallen on top of it, the damage may be covered by your carrier. Flooding situations can be tricky as many insurers don’t include flooding protection on typical home coverage policies. Even so, a falling tree that destroys your AC unit may be partially or completely covered by the insurance company. It’s worth checking into. After talking to the insurance rep, you may or may not be interested in filing a claim.

Rely on Mr. Reliable Heating & Air for All of Your Heating And AC Repair Needs

Hurricanes, tropical storms, thunderstorms, heat lighting, tornadoes–The Woodlands has seen some serious rough weather over the years. Of course, we love our corner of Texas, too. That’s why it’s important to prepare our homes and their essential systems like heating and air conditioning systems for inclement weather events. With a little preparation, you may be able to ward off the need for heating and AC repair service.

Mr. Reliable Heating & Air features a team of certified HVAC pros. We keep up to date with the latest best practices and innovations for our industry. We’re a leading heating and AC repair company serving The Woodlands and the greater Houston area.

Use these tips to prepare for the inevitable storms to arrive in The Woodlands, TX. Remember that Mr. Reliable Heating & Air is available if you need emergency heating and AC repair. Our techs have years of experience and are comfortable working with any make or model AC unit. It’s always best to let the experts inspect your unit if you suspect that it has suffered storm-related damage. Contact us to learn more about our HVAC solutions or to schedule a service call.

Photo By Marc Rossmann at Shutterstock

Air Conditioner Repair Spring, TX
Air Conditioner Repair Spring, TX